Politely dealing with that team member who can't stop talking!
Anonymous
Do you have any tips for politely ending a conversation with someone when every time you ask about a quick update and they tell you everything they know?
A new person joined my team and every quick question from me on how things are going turns into a 30 minute explanation. I think they are trying to show they have the knowledge to be trusted.
I don't want to send the message that I am too busy to listen. I want to send the message that I trust you but the quick conversations are so I can explain to my bosses what everyone is doing when I get asked instead of dragging you into meetings. Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
Jan 16, 2023 3:02 PM
Replying to Karthikeyan Subramaniyam
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Though it's easy to share suggestion, it's really tough and needs practice and following multi-step approach to deal the situation.
Deal the situation in a meeting:
- It's difficult to interfere first: "Sorry to interrupt, you have a great/valuable points. Much appreciated for sharing. However, for the interest of time and/or current focus of the meeting, can we take this offline or we can schedule specific meeting to go in details, would that be ok. Appreciate your understanding"
For a repetitive situation, yes, you can use 1:1, or asking right questions back so that he realizes it (would you mind sharing why is this important, how does it impact, quantify, etc), or finally getting help from his/her management
I am not sure that being sorry and asking for permission to stay on agenda is a sign of leadership. Saving Changes...
Peter RapinSubject Matter Expect; Project Delivery| Independent ConsultantOntario, Canada
Jan 19, 2023 10:53 AM
Replying to Matthew Weidler
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All great points, but consider also looking in the mirror. Are you, in fact, giving them enough time and attention to make them feel valued when you don’t have a good reason for being in a rush? Are you over-loaded and treating everyone and everything like a transaction instead of a person? I’m certainly at-fault for doing this to my people when I feel overwhelmed.
You are being retained to deliver a project not play nursemaid to immature individuals needing constant attention. Be professional, be respectful but keep your eyes on the road. Saving Changes...
Matthew WeidlerSr. Project Manager| CO-OP Financial ServicesRancho Cucamonga, Ca, United States
Jan 19, 2023 10:53 AM
Replying to Matthew Weidler
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All great points, but consider also looking in the mirror. Are you, in fact, giving them enough time and attention to make them feel valued when you don’t have a good reason for being in a rush? Are you over-loaded and treating everyone and everything like a transaction instead of a person? I’m certainly at-fault for doing this to my people when I feel overwhelmed.
Saving Changes...
Matthew WeidlerSr. Project Manager| CO-OP Financial ServicesRancho Cucamonga, Ca, United States
……… Saving Changes...
Saifuddin LimdiyawalaHead Of IT| Horizon University CollegeSharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Agree with Yasir and Kiron... another way, give the timeline, like 2 mins and wrap it sort of... Saving Changes...
Valerie WelbournChief Operating Officer| Ed Holmes & AssociatesHendersonville, Nc, United States
I've probably been guilty of giving too much information, especially when I'm not clear how much detail is desired. On the other hand, when I've been too succinct I've been accused of not appearing busy enough :-) Saving Changes...
Teach the team member the importance of being precise and to the point, teach how to prepare an executive summary, What do YOU need to know about the topic , nothing more nothing less.
By approaching this directly with the team member , 1-1 would be best, there is going to be learning for both of you. Saving Changes...
Latha Thamma reddiSr Product and Portfolio Management (Automation Innovation)| DXC TechnologyMckinney, Tx, United States