Navigating Group Conversations and Managing Interruptions

Understand the Challenges of Group Conversations

Group conversations can be difficult due to:

• Multiple people talking at once, making it hard to process information.

• Fast-paced changes in topics.

• Difficulty recognising social cues, such as when it’s your turn to speak.

Being aware of these challenges is the first step to addressing them.

Prepare Before Joining a Group Conversation

Preparation can reduce anxiety and help you feel more confident.

Practical Steps to Try:

Set Realistic Expectations:

• Understand that you don’t have to contribute to every part of the conversation. Listening is also valuable.

Prepare Conversation Starters:

• Have a few topics ready that are relevant to the group.

• Example: If it’s a work meeting, prepare to share a brief update about your tasks.

Identify a Safe Person:

• If possible, identify someone in the group you feel comfortable with who can help you navigate the conversation.

Tools to Help:

• Conversation Guides: Use resources like the National Autistic Society’s social skills advice.

• Social Skills Apps: Apps like MagnusCards offer step-by-step guides for group interactions.

Observe Before Speaking

Take time to listen and observe the flow of the conversation before jumping in.

Practical Steps to Try:

Listen for Common Themes:

• Pay attention to the main topic being discussed.

• Example: If the group is talking about weekend plans, prepare to share something about yours.

Watch Social Cues:

• Look for pauses or when people seem to expect input.

• Example: When someone finishes a sentence and makes eye contact, it may be your turn to speak.

Practice Exercise:

• Watch group discussions on YouTube or in TV shows and practice identifying when someone starts or finishes speaking.

Join the Conversation at the Right Time

Knowing when to speak is key to navigating group conversations.

Practical Steps to Try:

Look for a Pause:

• Wait for a natural pause in the conversation before speaking.

• Example: If two people finish a back-and-forth exchange, that’s a good time to contribute.

Use Transitional Phrases:

• Start with phrases that signal you’re joining the conversation.

• Examples:

  • "That reminds me of..."

  • "I agree, and I’d like to add..."

Manage Interruptions

Interruptions can be frustrating but manageable with practice.

Practical Steps to Try:

Pause and Assess:

• If someone interrupts you, pause briefly to see if they’re making a quick point.

• Example: If they stop speaking quickly, resume with, "As I was saying..."

Use Assertive Language:

• Politely let others know you’d like to finish.

• Example: "I’d like to finish my thought, if that’s okay."

Accept Some Interruptions:

• Understand that interruptions are common in group settings and not always intentional.

Practice Exercise:

• Role-play with a friend or support worker to practice handling interruptions assertively.

Handle Overlapping Conversations

Overlapping conversations can be overwhelming in group settings.

Practical Steps to Try:

Focus on One Speaker:

• Tune out background chatter and concentrate on one person.

• Example: If two people are speaking, focus on the one closest to you or directly addressing you.

Ask for Clarification:

• If you miss something, politely ask the speaker to repeat it.

• Example: "I didn’t quite catch that—could you say it again?"

Use Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal cues can help you participate without speaking.

Examples:

• Nodding: Show you’re listening and engaged.

• Eye Contact: Briefly make eye contact with the speaker (or look at their nose if eye contact feels uncomfortable).

• Smiling: Use a small smile to show agreement or friendliness.

Practice Exercise:

• Practice these cues in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend.

Build Confidence Through Active Listening

Active listening helps you stay engaged and provides opportunities to contribute meaningfully.

Practical Steps to Try:

Reflect Back:

• Paraphrase what someone said to show you understand.

• Example: "So you’re saying the new project starts next week?"

Ask Follow-Up Questions:

• Encourage the speaker to elaborate.

• Example: "That sounds interesting—how did you get started with it?"

Know How to Exit the Conversation

It’s okay to leave a group conversation if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Practical Steps to Try:

Use Polite Exit Phrases:

• Example: "It was great talking with you—I’m going to step away for a moment."

Move to a Quiet Space:

• Find a quiet spot to recharge if you’re feeling overstimulated.

Practice in Low-Stress Environments

Start with smaller or more familiar groups to build confidence.

Practice Opportunities:

• Family gatherings or small friend groups.

• Online group discussions, such as virtual meetups or support groups.

Seek Support if Needed

If group conversations remain difficult, reach out for additional help.

People Who Can Help:

• Speech and Language Therapists: They can help develop social communication skills.

• Support Workers or Therapists: They can provide strategies tailored to your needs.

• Trusted Friends or Family: Practice group conversations with them in a safe environment.

UK-Based Resources:

• National Autistic Society (NAS): Offers advice and programs for social skills. Visit www.autism.org.uk.

• Mind: Provides resources for building confidence in social interactions. Visit www.mind.org.uk.

Use Technology to Support You

Apps and Tools:

• MagnusCards: Step-by-step digital guides for group conversations.

• BetterHelp or TalkSpace: Online therapy platforms where you can work on social skills.

• Social Stories: Create visual or written guides for navigating group conversations.

Be Kind to Yourself

Navigating group conversations takes practice and patience.

Tips for Self-Compassion:

• Celebrate small successes, like contributing to one part of the conversation.

• Accept that it’s okay to feel nervous or make mistakes.

• Take breaks when you need to recharge.

Example Script for Group Conversations

Join the Conversation:

• "Hi everyone! I heard you talking about [topic]—that sounds interesting."

Contribute Briefly:

• "I’ve had a similar experience with [related topic]."

Ask a Question:

• "What do you think about [specific aspect]?"

Handle Interruptions:

• "I’d like to finish what I was saying, if that’s okay."

Exit Gracefully:

• "It’s been great chatting—I’ll catch up with you later!"

Final Thoughts

By following this guide, practicing regularly, and seeking support when needed, you can build confidence in navigating group conversations and managing interruptions effectively. Don’t hesitate to use the suggested resources and tools for additional support.