A senior leader jumping in mid-presentation feels different from a typical question — the power dynamic is real, and ignoring it will backfire. But so will abandoning your message entirely. The iSpeak principle is to honor the leader, then redirect to your purpose.

When a senior leader interrupts with a comment or a question, thank them for the clarification or insight. Give a concise answer first, then continue building your message using the language they just introduced. For example: "Thank you—that helps clarify the priority. Based on speed to implementation..." or "I appreciate that perspective. Building on your point..." By adopting their terminology, you demonstrate that you're listening and that your message is directly relevant to their priorities. Rather than promising you'll cover it later, answer what's needed now and simply offer additional detail if time permits.

Remember the AMY principle: Audience → Message → You. Your message exists to serve the audience's needs, and right now a senior leader has just signaled what matters to them. That's useful information. Flex toward it where you can, but use it to strengthen your presentation's relevance, not abandon your structure.

Why it matters: How you handle a senior leader's interruption signals executive presence. Getting rattled or losing the thread looks unpolished. Confidently absorbing the redirect and bridging back demonstrates exactly the kind of composure that earns leadership trust.