Tired of the same soundtrack,?

Question

I work in a university setting in an office that caters specifically to student needs; therefore there is constant traffic by students, faculty and staff. With that said, my shared office space with our 22 year old administrative assistant is flooded with music throughout the day. I realize that some people “need” noise but I do not. It is challenging to meet/advise students in the semi-private environment while music is blaring. Even daily tasks and phone calls are an issue. (On occasion the selections are inappropriate for the office). She is a nice girl but how do I approach her and/or my supervisor while not sounding like a tattletale or a complainer?

Please only answer with repsectful and professional suggestions.

Answer 1

You don't want to create bad blood between yourself and the other girl, so I would go to the supervisor in a casual way, not like its a big deal. Just mention that sometimes the music is disturbing. Tell your supervisor you don't want to hurt her feelings, so if they could ask her in a polite way to keep it down or wear headphones you would appreciate it.

Answer 2

I would go to the super in a calm, adult manner and explain how disturbing and times offensive you find the music that is playing. Tell them that in order for you to be more effective you can't have the music playing. Just be diplomatic and explain that the music is disturbing to you when you are trying to do work. I work in an office where some people listen to their personal radios at their desk and people like us (who can't tolerate music when we are trying to work) don't. Suggest to the Super that they impliment a work rule that you are allowed to have a personal radio at your desk! Then everyone can be happy!

Answer 3

how about bringing in some replacement music that is more "neutral" or soothing, and offer it as a substitue. You won't be saying anything negative about the current "noise", and you'll be presenting another option. If they proceed to play it too loud, saying a simple "lower is better please especially when we're on the phone!" and ideally they will get the hint.