I am typically an upbeat, pleasant and positive person, but every once in a while I have to get on my soapbox and spew. It is great for the soul and might actually teach people something, I hope!
One of my pet peeves is being interrupted when I am in a conversation with someone. It has happened to me more than once. Actually it has happened too many times. I will be talking with Person “A” regarding business, or whatever, and Person “B” will walk up to Person “A” and start talking, ignoring the fact that I am standing there. This has happened in social situations and business meetings. It has even happened at the monthly Happy Hours that I host. I have never heard an “excuse me,” or “I am sorry for interrupting,” or anything else along those lines. They just continue their conversation and when finished Person “B” walks away. I would be more accepting of this practice if I were included in the conversation, but usually I am ignored and treated like a window, if you catch my drift.
In reverse, when I want to talk to someone and they are in a conversation, I stand quietly, wait for them to be available, and then proceed with my conversation.
This is not rocket science, but actually social etiquette that should have been learned at an early age. Did their parents not explain to them that interrupting is unacceptable? Should we chalk it up to the “me” generation’s way of conducting themselves in society? How are they going to teach their children about manners if they don’t have any?
Has this ever happened to you, or am I in a group of 1?
