How to stop someone rambling on:
Sie brauchen eine Information von Ihrer Kollegin, aber sie redet endlos über das TV Programm am Wochenende oder die Einschulung Ihres Kindes? So lenken Sie das Gespräch auf das gewünschte Thema.
Get a conversation back on track by showing interest, then leading the other person to the point. For example, say: That sounds really interesting. I’d love to hear more and I hate to sound impolite, but I’m afraid I need those figures I asked you for last week. Or: You must be very happy about that. I’m glad for you! Now, can I just interrupt you …? It’s important never to embarras the other person by being too blunt.