For Pete's sake, will you please shut up and let me work!

If you've got a clueless workmate, it may take much more than subtle hints to end the interruptions. (Image: 123rf)

Sun, 23 Feb 2025

By Karla L. Miller, workplace advice columnist.A reader writes: How can I cut down on chitchat without seeming rude? One co-worker in particular will come into my office and talk at length about non-work matters. I look at my computer, glance at the clock, say, “Mmm hmm”, but these cues don’t work. To complicate matters, sometimes the exchange begins with a legitimate work-related question, but once I have weighed in, they shift to personal topics.Don’t get me wrong: I’m happy to engage in a mod...

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