Our Coffee Break features answers to everyday work-related questions (otherwise known as watercooler/coffee break talk)! Send us your questions at corporate@thecorporatesister.com!
Q: My co-worker is incredibly loud! She talks on the phone most of the day, and the volume of her conversations beats anything I may be listening to. When she’s not talking on the phone, she’s interacting with other co-workers in the same loud manner. I can’t focus because of the noise, and I don’t know how to address it.
A: Dear “Noise Survivor”,
I hear you! Having a co-worker who’s incredibly loud can prevent you from concentrating on your own work, or even aligning two thoughts in a row for that matter! I had a similar experience, and felt like I personally knew this co-worker’s entire life and work! If you’re no longer able to sustain this environment, consider approaching her in a nice and diplomatic way first! Gently hint at the fact that the office can be so loud that it’s hard to focus and get anything done. Hopefully, she gets the hint!
If she doesn’t and continue to act in the same way, consider politely asking her if she could keep the volume of her conversations down. Cite privacy reasons first, and make it seem like you’re trying to help her protect her personal information.
If she still doesn’t get it and keeps behaving in the same manner, talk to your manager about it and discuss possible ways to approach the issue. As a last resort, consider getting Human Resources involved, but not until you’ve exhausted all possibilities.
Readers, what do you think?
To Your Success,
The Corporate Sis.
