Good Systems · public information library

What can I do at work to help someone when they interrupt or talk before people finish?

People come here to understand why something in everyday life feels harder, different or more costly than it should — and what might make it work better.

Short answer

Protect turn-taking while making meetings easier to follow.

What this can look like

Fast meetings can reward whoever speaks first while leaving other views and decisions unclear.

Why it can happen

Fast responses or interruptions can have many explanations. Use agendas, visible queues, written capture and clear facilitation rather than interpreting behaviour as a trait.

What might help

Use an agenda, visible questions and a written parking lot. Give time for considered contributions.

What the research helps explain

Australian ADHD guidance and international consensus evidence describe ADHD as affecting everyday functioning for some people, including attention, planning, memory, time and follow-through. At work, practical supports and fair design can be useful without identifying anyone as having ADHD.

What can vary

Stress, sleep, health, task design, role clarity and preference can create similar work patterns. Do not diagnose employees, seek private medical information or make support conditional on disclosure.

For this situation

For you, set meeting norms that give everyone a way to contribute without shame.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.