If you want to get more done at work, then you need to learn how to silence a talkative coworker. These are the people who like to chat, while you’re trying to get through your to do list. Over time, the conversation time starts to cut into your productivity.
In this episode of our Employee Productivity series, you’ll learn how to handle a talkative coworker, without appearing rude. This strategy may even help you get through some dull tasks a lot faster.
What Productivity Questions Does This Video Answer?
- How to silence a talkative coworker?
- How to be firm but not rude at work?
- What can I do to avoid distractions at work?
- How can I be more productive at work?
Video Transcript for How to Silence a Talkative Coworker
Does a talkative coworker make you wish you had a trap door by your desk. We’ve all been in that situation, you need to get some work done, and your coworkers keep bugging you. And maybe you have one of those coworkers who either doesn’t have much work to do or gets everything done very quickly.
So he or she kind of goes around the office and holds court, talks to people. Talks a lot to people. The minutes start to add up and you realize you’re not getting work done because you’re having to chat.
You can say something like, “Hey, I’m really busy. I’ve got to focus on this work. Can I catch up with you later?”
Sometimes this works fine. Other times the person really doesn’t get the hint and says, “Oh you can do that stuff later. Just stay late”
For you, those may not be good options. So how do you get rid of that coworker who just can’t take that hint? Here’s a tip I found that works. It’s a little unusual. But try it because I think you may be surprised by the results.
It’s to give that person some work. So, if they’re sitting at your desk and they are talking about the weekend’s football games and all their fantasy, and this that and the other thing, say, “You know what?” I’ve got to catch up on some things. I’m happy to talk to you. Let me give you this. If you wouldn’t mind alphabetizing this report? That would be great. It would help me out a lot.”
Or, “Hey, you know these paper clips that I have. Could you kind of arrange them in a certain way?”
Give them some menial task that you would have to perform. Now, there’s a chance the person may say, “Sure, I’m glad to help and they’ll start to do it.
But in most cases, when you give someone a little bit of work to do, suddenly he or she becomes much less interested in talking to you.
You’re not being rude. You’re kind of saying, “Hey, the price for talking to me is having to do a little bit of work. So, if you want to stick around, you’re welcome to. But you’re going to be helping me out with my job.” Instead of hurting you.
Try this technique. Very often it makes a talkative coworker speechless.
About This Video Series
Ken Okel’s ongoing Employee Productivity video series will make you more effective on the job. Every week, you’ll learn a new, easy to understand tip that you can use right away, like how automation can help your team.
Tired of a productivity problem? Let us know and we’ll feature it in an upcoming episode.
About Ken Okel
As a motivational speaker, Ken Okel works with leaders and organizations to boost productivity, performance, and profits. At conferences, conventions, and company meetings, he engages audiences with new ways to maximize their time at work. To see a sample of his keynote and workshop presentations, visit his video page.
