Looking for tips on how to deal with a worker that spends an inordinate amount of time talking in the office.

Anonymous

June 26,2022 at 2:36PM UTC

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Looking for tips on how to deal with a worker that spends an inordinate amount of time talking in the office. While the work is getting done, there are often avoidable errors. It’s a small company and I’ve already explained that it is a distraction to others and seems to impact the individual’s performance. I thought the message was heard but, unfortunately, not the case. I’d really like to make this work.

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Audrey KirschJune 26,2022 at 4:45PM UTC
Talking normally includes at least two people. Everyone needs to speak up if they are being distracted from their work. A simple I’d love to chat but I really need to concentrate right now. To nice it up they can include an invitation to lunch or coffee break where they can catch up. You need to enlist others in the effort or you risk coming off as mean and micromanaging or intolerant of individuality.
Marquisha ThomasJune 26,2022 at 5:36PM UTC
Can you put headphones on? That way, you can avoid the chitchat.
AnonymousJune 26,2022 at 7:27PM UTC
The talker wants attention. Headphones (lack of response) can cause the talking to increase.
In theory, headphones work. In theory.
Marquisha ThomasJune 27,2022 at 6:36PM UTC
LOL!
AnonymousJune 26,2022 at 11:47PM UTC
Welcome back to working in the office!
Maybe ask this individual to work from home.. haha
AnonymousJune 27,2022 at 12:20PM UTC
As someone who is a talker (although in my case Slack-er), the main reason is because I crave social connection and want to build relationships with my coworkers because I spend more time with them than I do with my family. Which is sad, but true. One of the things we did at my office was try to set structured times to socialize like virtual happy hours or I would limit my catching up with a coworker/friend to a few minutes a day. I have tried to be respectful understanding that others can't handle so much chatting. But honestly I would have had to leave if I didn't have some engagement especially since I'm working 50+ hrs a week from home.
AnonymousJune 27,2022 at 4:05PM UTC
Perhaps if it keeps happening you can write the person up.
AnonymousJune 27,2022 at 5:06PM UTC
Guilty here. I'm a talker because it keeps me going. Working on it though. Something I find helpful is listening to podcasts and music while I work. It's something to keep my brain focused especially when working on mundane stuff. Maybe some podcasts could be offered as professional development?
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistJune 28,2022 at 3:05AM UTC
Headphones.
Are you this person's supervisor? Are you the supervisor of the others being distracted?
If not, I'd worry about yourself.