In my experience with stakeholders in international organizations, when clients monopolize time, it often reflects their need to feel heard. I address this by first acknowledging their input by saying something like ‘I can see that this is important, and I appreciate you sharing’, and then gently redirecting with ‘let’s focus on [x goal] to ensure we meet the meeting objectives and revisit this later on, if time allows’. Additionally, setting clear expectations at the start of sessions, through agendas or defined time blocks, helps prevent this from happening. By balancing empathy with structure, I aim to cultivate a feeling of value and acknowledgement while keeping the conversation focused, managing time and achieving desired outcomes.

Here are some strategies to redirect them constructively 1. Set Clear Expectations from the Start Before the Session: 2. Use Gentle Interruptions 3. Time Management Tools 4. Active Listening and Validation 5. Encourage Self-Reflection Redirect questions back to them to encourage focus: "What do you think is the best way we can address this briefly right now?" 6. Set Firm Boundaries Politely but firmly: "I want to make sure we’re using our time productively and addressing all your priorities today. Let’s keep this specific point short so we can cover everything." 7. Follow-Up Options Offer alternative methods for continued discussion: "This seems like a significant topic. Would you like to set up another session to focus on it?

Always set clear and concise guidelines for the meeting and ensure they're followed. If it's a meeting to discuss your products/services, you need to control the direction of the conversation. I feel people nowadays are too conscious to be authoritative. Everyone's time is valuable, so respect that.