How to Deal With a Co-Worker Who Won't Stop Talking

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By Alison Green

Here's one of the questions I hear over and over from people: "How can I get my long-winded co-worker to stop talking to me?" Our workplaces are apparently rife with co-workers who prattle on about their relationship troubles, diet challenges, wedding plans, the movie they saw last weekend, work complaints – anything and everything – without realizing that other people are trying to work.

Co-workers who won't stop talking aren't just annoying; they can also impact your productivity when you can't get them to leave you in peace. And they can strain relationships by making you feel like there's no way to tell them you need them to be quiet without you being the one who comes across as rude.