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What do you do when you pick up the phone on a busy day and find yourself talking to someone who seems to have all the time in the world? Here are six simple strategies to finish that too-long call and get back to work without hurting the other person’s feelings.

1 Stand up

Although the chatterbox won’t be able to see you, standing up is still effective as it puts more authority in your voice. It will also make it easier for you to undertake the next steps.

2 Interrupt

Learn how to interrupt politely. Here are some phrases to get you started:

• Sorry, can you just hold on a minute.
• Hold on, Leslie.
• Alice, perhaps if I could just interrupt.

If you find it difficult because the other person is talking too fast, get them to slow down by saying:

• Could you slow down a bit, please?
• Sorry, but could you take it more slowly, please?

Slow down yourself, too, and your caller may match your speed. It’s easier to interrupt someone who is talking slowly, and if you are talking slowly yourself you will sound more in charge of the conversation.

3 Summarise what has been said

Give a clear signal that you want to finish the call by summarising what has been said.

• So, may I just go over what we’ve said?
• Well, let me just recap that.

4 Use signal language

Use short, or one-word sentences to show you’ve come to an end. For example:

• All right then!
• Well, that seems to be it!
• Right!

5 Cut it short

Cut the call short with the help of a little “white lie.” For example say you have to get to a meeting or that someone else is waiting for you.

• I’m sorry, I have to go now. I’m late for a meeting.
• Sorry I have to rush but there’s a customer waiting for me.
• Oh dear, something urgent has just come up. I'm sorry but I have to go.

6 End on a friendly note

Finally, whatever method you choose to end the call, make sure you close on a friendly note.

• It was nice talking to you.
• Thank you for the interesting call.

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