Too Much of a Good Thing

Q.     My department is under a lot of stress because we consistently have more work than we can handle and tight deadlines.

One of our co-workers has always liked to socialize but it wasn't a huge problem until this new guy started. Now, the two of them chatter away for up to a half-hour several times a day.

Their yakking takes them out of production and makes it hard for the rest of us to concentrate when we're getting more annoyed by the minute. We've tried dropping hints and one co-worker went to the supervisor but the chit-chatting continues.  How do we get them to shut up and do their jobs short of telling them to shut up and do their jobs?

A.     You're right in understanding that you're not the boss so you don't get to tell them what to do. But you do get to tell them how their behavior is affecting each of you and the department as a whole, and to ask them to change it.

Here are some ideas on how to do that constructively.

Plan your approach: Does it make sense that one or two people act as spokespersons to confront the problem with the talkers, or would you be more effective as a group? Can you ask your supervisor to assist you with the conversation?  Don't wait until you're really annoyed to talk with them; pick a time when you're more likely to be less stressed and less irritated.

Be respectful: Attack the problem not the people.  Don't use put-downs or resort to name-calling. While it might feel good for the moment to say that they yak worse than a couple of old hens, they'll only get defensive.

Be direct: State the facts about the behavior that is bothering you. Their lack of production for up to thirty minutes several times a day and the distraction to co-workers is the problem, not that their friendly and social with each other.  Be clear about the impact as you see it — increased work and stress for the rest of you — and how you how you feel about it.

Use collaborative problem-solving: What's happening now isn't working and it's likely that having a no talk rule won't work either. Look for solutions that will work for everyone.

Good working relationships often involve being friendly and social, but too much of a good thing can cause problems for everyone.