Why Interruptions Are Actually Good News

Here's something that might completely change how you feel about this: when a panel interrupts you, it usually means they're ENGAGED, not disinterested. Think about it - a bored interviewer lets you ramble on. An interested one jumps in with follow-ups, challenges, or redirections. After sitting on interview panels myself and training students for 18+ years, I can tell you this with confidence - interruptions are often a sign that your interview is going WELL.

The problem isn't the interruption. The problem is how most students interpret it. They think "I'm boring them" or "I said something wrong" and immediately spiral into self-doubt. That internal narrative is what kills your performance, not the interruption itself.

The 3 Types of Interruptions

Not all interruptions are the same, and recognizing the type helps you respond correctly. First, there's the "dig deeper" interruption - they want more detail on something you mentioned. This is excellent. Second, there's the "redirect" interruption - they've heard enough on this topic and want to move on. This is neutral. Third, there's the "challenge" interruption - they're testing your conviction or poking holes in your logic. This is your opportunity to shine.

Most students treat all three the same way - with panic. Big mistake. A "dig deeper" interruption means lean in and elaborate. A "redirect" means gracefully stop and follow their lead. A "challenge" means hold your ground respectfully while acknowledging their perspective.

The Graceful Stop Technique

When interrupted, do this: stop speaking within 2-3 words (not mid-syllable, that looks jarring), make eye contact with the person who interrupted, and LISTEN completely before responding. Don't use those seconds to mentally defend yourself or plan your comeback. Actually listen. Then respond to what THEY said, not to what you were planning to say next.

This sounds simple but most students fail at it. They're so focused on finishing their original thought that they half-listen to the interruption and give a response that doesn't connect. Interviewers notice this immediately.

What NOT To Do

Never say "If I could just finish my point..." or try to talk over the interviewer. Never look annoyed or defeated. Never apologize excessively with "Sorry, sorry, yes please go ahead." These responses either signal inflexibility or lack of confidence - both are PI killers.

Also, don't abandon your point entirely if it was important. After addressing their interruption, you can absolutely say "And just to complete my earlier thought..." if it adds genuine value. This shows you can adapt while still being thorough.

The Reframe That Changes Everything

Here's how I want you to think about interruptions from now on: they're the interviewer's way of having a CONVERSATION with you instead of listening to a PRESENTATION. Conversations have interruptions. Presentations don't. Which one do you think creates better rapport?

The best PIs I've witnessed look like animated discussions, not formal Q&As. There's back-and-forth, interruptions, laughter, even friendly disagreements. Students who get flustered by interruptions are expecting a presentation format - and that expectation is hurting them.

Your 5-Day Practice Plan

Do mock PIs where your partner is INSTRUCTED to interrupt you at least 4-5 times in a 15-minute session. Practice your graceful stops. Practice listening fully. Practice responding to their point before returning to yours. By Day 5, interruptions will feel like natural conversation flow instead of attacks on your speaking time.

Start this week. Get interrupted on purpose. Build that muscle. When the real panel interrupts you, you'll handle it like a pro.

Happy Learning! 🙂