I am a database developer who sits in section of six cubicles joined together like a honey comb.
This woman in her mid 20's, talks valley-girl speak a mile a minute on the phone frequently, and 75% of her calls are personal, involving drama - she's mad at one of her girlfriends, and is telling one of her other friends - this goes on all day.
I have the type of job I really need to focus - every project is in some way new and very challenging.
She was gone friday afternoon, and my productivity went through the roof. Is there something abnormal about me, that I can't hang with this gal ? Is there something I can do to focus ? This goes on all day - I'm a former temp who was converted to full-time recently, and I don't want to complain as a new employee
2007-12-24 05:04:26 · 11 answers · asked by ironwood9 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Definitely talk to your boss, that's what they're there for. And there's a high probablity your boss will do something about it. After all, if the woman is making personal calls all day, that means she's not working!
I don't recommend that you talk to the woman first, because it probably won't do any good. And then if you talk to your boss later, she'll know who complained. If you go directly to your boss you at least have a shot at maintaining your anonymity.
2007-12-24 05:24:44 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have a few options. The easy one is to unplug her phone. That's something I would do.
Then there's the iPod solution. Put on headphones. But I'm guessing that even the heaviest screaming metal couldn't drown her out.
The third option is to explain to the boss what's going on, add that you don't want to tattle, but that you don't get a chance to talk to her, don't want to offend her personally, and emphasize that it impacts your performance. Chances are, you're not the only one aware of this, especially if there are four others besides you two.
I've known her type. You start to wonder how you two ended up in the same place, you being successful and what not, and her... droning on about her drama like a high school girl.
2007-12-24 05:10:18 · answer #2 · answered by Zoe - Little Linguist 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
OMG. I had the same issue with a woman that I had to work with. No matter how nicely I asked her to tone down her voice.. she just naturally spoke louder and louder... It drove me to the point that I almost quit my job.
I finally slipped a note in my bosses in box that I typed (without a name on it) I simply said..... " I don't know if I am speaking for everyone, but I know I am speaking for at least two... Our production level and efficiency has taken a dive as a direct result of being forced to listen to (insert name) discuss with her friends on the phone (in a very loud voice) her personal problems all day long. I am not trying to "rat" on her, but this has gone beyond what we all believe is normal conversation. WE do not feel that we should have to listen to her personal calls for most of the day, and would appreciate your help.
Respectfully.
A member of the team.
.... you could put a little note that says too that everyone is happier and works harder when she is not around to be a total distraction.
Good luck.
Almo
2007-12-24 05:13:16 · answer #3 · answered by Redneck ALMO 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you need quiet to work to your full potential, loud people can really mess you up. But this might work for you without offending anyone--get yourself some of those big sound-proofing headphones and wear them while you work. Just let your coworkers know that when they want your attention, they should tap your shoulder or send a paper airplane your way. Also let them know that you're "experimenting" to see if this improves your output. You might take some ribbing, but who doesn't every now and then?
2007-12-24 06:37:19 · answer #4 · answered by vintner 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If she was gone on Friday afternoon, you should have left her a thank you telling her thanks for toning it down in 2008 when she talks on the phone.I wouldn't have signed it...just made her wonder who sent it. Complaining when you are a new employee won't get you anywhere. Happy Holidays!
2007-12-24 05:10:41 · answer #5 · answered by Harley Lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe complaining is the best thing to do. U need to be productive. Good luck. Happy Holidays
2007-12-24 05:07:47 · answer #6 · answered by jessicas127 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Headphones headphones headphones...saved my life! Play music, tune the **** out or, if you are not allowed headphones (can't see why you wouldn't be) then ask to be moved. You don't have to go into detail, just say you feel you could be more productive in a quieter area.
2007-12-24 05:08:21 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have two recommendations: Ask HR to publish a "cube etiquette" guildeline so that she can be held accountable for her actions, and also get yourself a pair of white noise or noise canceling headphones (you can use these with or without music)
2007-12-24 05:10:38 · answer #8 · answered by Twice as Nice 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would seek guidance from your manager my friend in conference and confidential. The world does not need any nitro-burning motor mouth burning up the communication portions of our lives.
2007-12-24 05:12:45 · answer #9 · answered by TEC 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's ok
just stay focused
i've had projects in which people in my group could not concentrate and would always talk about something else instead of the project
it drives me crazy
but you got to take control
be strict on her
tell her to do her work
good luck!
2007-12-24 05:09:42 · answer #10 · answered by Elaine 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋