How does one manage working with an employee who is very talkative and distracting?

While the employee is quite smart and good at what they do, they create a lot of distractions and miss obvious social signals that others are not interested in having the conversation or listening atm because they are trying to work and focus. I’ve spoken with this employee, but not directly said “you are too distracting” as I feel one challenge is being offensive or the individual taking it personal (this is kind of a personal thing, but bleeds into work matters as well).


  • 1. Try taking them out for a drink / lunch and have an open discussion but make it clear you are not doing it be rude in anyway. Maybe point out some of your own flaws so to show you are not perfect. This will hopefully bring the guard down a bit.

    2. Do it via email but realise that the text is mission human emotion and could back fire.

    3. Move to another area in the office if possible.

    Hope this helps.

  • Most definitely do it in person. It takes courage to talk with people in person about uncomfortable topics and it will build respect for you to look him in the eye while telling him.

    You can start the conversation by asking if he is open for some honest feedback. Do it in private, ideally outside the office in a more social setting.

  • I agree with the second answer, ask the person if they are open to critique and if they want to be a part of the tram long term. It is personal, they may be very excited about being there and need to better channel the enthusiasm towards vendors and clients, outward not inward.

    @kaffegeek

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