How to Deal with a Loud Co-Worker

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Step 1: Mention the problem
When you two are alone, gently mention the problem and its effect on you. For example, 'I don’t think you realize how loudly you speak; it sometimes makes me lose count when I’m checking inventory.'

Step 2: Enlist others
Ask other colleagues who share your annoyance to politely complain, too. There is strength in numbers, and you won’t look like a lone nutcase.

Step 3: Shame the loudmouth
Try shaming the loudmouth into straightening out. Start wearing earplugs, and place a large decorative bowl of them on your desk with the sign, 'Warning: Loud Employee in Vicinity. Help Yourself.'

Step 4: Play music
Bring in a radio and tune it to whatever music Loudmouth detests. Turn up the volume and pretend you can’t hear Loudmouth’s pleas.

Step 5: Fake legal action
When Loudmouth is having a rare quiet moment, fake a call to the Bureau of Labor—speak just loudly enough so Loudmouth overhears the phrases 'can’t hear myself think,' 'take legal action,' and 'hostile work environment.'

Tip
To maximize the impact of your call, have a friend play spokesperson for the Bureau of Labor, and put the call on speakerphone.

Step 6: Move your workspace
Respectfully request to move your workspace far away from Loudmouth. When your manager or human resources representative realizes that this person is hampering office productivity, they will step in.

Did You Know?
In one survey, 32% of respondents named a loud coworker as their number one office complaint, followed by annoying ring tones and use of speakerphones.