In the last few weeks, I have talked about the importance of safety in teams and how crucial it is to continually send safety and belonging cues. This week, I will highlight two types of interruptions and focus on the destructive one.
The first type of interruption is actually good and occurs when there is positive energy and excitement in a conversation. This type of interruption enhances communication and naturally builds cohesion.
The second type of interruption, however, occurs far more frequently. Bad interruptions are borne out of a lack of awareness, a selfish desire to be heard, and a lack of connection.
Unfortunately, these interruptions are devastating to building safety and belonging. This applies to business relationships, friendships, and family relationships. My wife and I are constantly trying to be cognizant of not interrupting each other because when we interrupt people, the message that we send says, “What I have to say is more important than what you are saying.”
In the book I am reading this month, The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups, author Daniel Coyle comments that “The smoothness of turn taking is a powerful indicator of cohesive group performance. Most interruptions shatter the smooth interactions at the core of safety and belonging.”
So, if you are like me, work on both identifying your interruptions in your everyday conversations and consciously not giving in to those desires.
