Muzzling the Motormouths

You're working frantically on a project that's due tomorrow. In walks Charlie, who wouldn't know a short conversation if he heard one. He's the workplace windbag. That's the bad news.

Yet there's good news. You can control motormouths . Use my recommended tactics--which have worked well for many of my clients--and you'll protect your time, meet your deadlines and retain your composure.

Don't make extended eye contact

Acknowledge that Charlie is there, yet keep working. Look at your computer screen, not Charlie. He's wanting your attention, so looking elsewhere lets him know you're not available for his customary extended chit chat.

Occasionally this works without further cues, other times you may need the rest of my recommendations.

Here they are.

Look at your watch

Doing so signals you are time-conscious, not available for diversions.

Announce a time limit.

"I've got three minutes to hear what you've got in mind, so fire away."

Explain your need for solitude.

"You know that tomorrow is our deadline for submitting our budget request for next quarter, so I'll have to talk with you another time."

Give an option that replaces talking

"Your idea sounds helpful. I'd like to share your suggestion with our staff. How about going back to your office and writing a two-paragraph summary you'll email to all of us?"

Walk the talker to the door.

This move implies the conversation's conclusion.

Use a Traffic Control Signal

Just as a traffic officer at an intersection extends an arm with the palm facing your car, give the same cue to chatterbox Charlie. You're indicating "it's my turn now." Take that turn.

Redirect the Conversation

Chairing a meeting, interrupt Charlie with, "Thanks for your input, Charlie, and now let's hear from Margaret, who has been working on this same project."

What else works for you?

What additional "muzzling the motormouths" strategies work for you?

#motormouth #blabbermouth #longwinded #boring #windbag

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I’m Dr. Bill Lampton—the “Biz Communication Guy”—sharing in this newsletter the communication skills and strategies I learned first as a college and community theater actor, then later a radio host, university faculty member, college and health care vice president, professional speaker, coach, consultant, author, and podcast host. You’ll find the opportunity to subscribe to my podcast when you visit my website, https://bizcommunicationguy.com