Sitting next to a chatty colleague who won’t let you get any work done? I got you covered 😉

We’ve all been there-trying to focus on a deadline while your colleague seems to have an endless supply of stories, comments, and questions.

You don’t need to be rude or cause friction to get back on track, but you do want to address it (if getting your work done is impact to you).

Try these 3 steps:

(1) Start on a positive note
“I value our chats.”

(2) Address your concern
“I also know if I keep talking to you I won’t get my work done today.”

(3) Suggest an alternative
“How about we catch up over lunch instead?”

And if they continue?
Use a conditional statement: “If, then.”
“IT you keep talking to me while I’m trying to focus, THEN I’ll wear headphones or find a quieter spot to work.”