Comments on: How to Work With a Chatty Cathy

By: abirdinthesink

abirdinthesink — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 19:19:13 +0000

What I would do is discuss in in private with the manager. Indicating that you do not want to make waves but all the chatter does not allow one to focus. Ask the manager to bring this up casually during the next team meeting. Something like, “I know we are using the morning to catch up with our previous night’s activities and reconnect. However, I’d like to see that toned down a little bit so as to not distract the work environment.” Then move on to the next topic without letting anyone ask questions or comment. I.e., “Next, I’d like everyone to start getting ready for our team picnic,etc.” Choosing an upbeat subject to change the mood. Just a thought.

By: Sandra

Sandra — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 22:46:50 +0000

I once had a similar situation with a colleague who would chat all day about her own issues, but also not give equal time if anyone else had something to say (so there were two issues here really). When I decided to tackle it with a ‘crucial conversation’ it didn’t go at all like any of the scenarios outlined. What do you do when the person simply bursts into tears? You can never really predict what’s going on inside a person’s head so it’s difficult to plan ahead and prepare for what you think their reaction will be. I was left feeling like a heel and the situation wasn’t resolved.

By: Dee

Dee — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 17:22:15 +0000

This suggestion works of the individual is part of the problem. But what if he/she is not engaged in the chatting, but still wants an environment where he/she can work without distractions? Would it be appropriate to suggest that they find another area to chat when their discussions become long and drawn out?

By: Terry

Terry — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 16:40:13 +0000

Al, I really appreciate your thoughtful respones. Each approach gets back to buiding the relationship and honoring our own needs.