How to Deal with a Needy Intrusive Colleague

“I have a work friend who has become quite needy and clingy and frequently interrupts me to talk about her personal problems or workplace issues when I need and want to focus on my job.

I don’t want to be rude, but it’s getting to be too much. How do I distance myself without seeming rude and uncaring?”

• Irritated

Dear Irritated,

Your work friend is overly focused on herself and under-focused?on the needs and interests of others.? This may be her usual style, and you’re only becoming aware of it, or it may be situationally based on her current stressful situations.? In either case, it’s important for you to identify what you need and then express your needs.

Here are 3 scripts:

• Assertively and kindly say something like, “I know you’re under a lot of stress right now, and yet I have to get my work done. I’m happy to talk after work (only if you are), but I’m just not able to spend time during the day chatting about this. I know you’ll understand.”

• When she comes up to you and starts talking, interrupt her in a kind tone and say, “I’d love to chat, but I have to stay focused on this project right now. Maybe we can talk after work.” And then go back to your job.

• Express concern by saying, “You are really stressed right now, and I’m concerned about you. Have you thought of talking to a professional counsellor about this? If you don’t, I’m worried you will become unwell, and that will only make things worse.? Some of what you’re telling me is beyond my ability to help you.”

By Donna Marshall, M.A., Counselling Psychology, RP, CEO and Co-Founder of Workright.

Let us help -?www.workright.ca/soft-skills-certification

Elevate Your Skills and the Skills of your team with Workright's E-Learning! Gain instant access to 100+ robust online Certification Programs that cover Compliance, Workplace Mental Health, Diversity, Harassment, Soft Skills, Leadership, and much more.

Don't settle for the ordinary when you can learn from the extraordinary. Our seasoned licensed professionals boast over two decades of clinical expertise in Workplace Mental Health, Soft Skills, Compliance, and Harassment prevention. With their authoritative guidance and insights from industry veterans, you're not just learning; you're gaining mastery.

Join the high achievers who've chosen Workright's E-Learning to steer their careers and their team towards success. Don't wait for greatness – grab it now!

Visit us to LEARN MORE and embark on your transformative E-Learning journey.

www.workright.ca