How to Deal with a Nosy Co Worker

How to Deal with a Nosy Co Worker

As working professionals in a hectic corporate environment, we seem  to spend more time at work than at home these days. People who Work collaboratively in a team environment for extended periods of time, often tend to interact and share more with their co-workers. However, there comes a point when a friendly co-worker's interest and inquiries translate into interference to the point of being nosy. 

A nosy co-worker can hamper your work productivity, concentration and mood by invading your personal space, being constantly chatty and watching over your shoulder as you turn to work at your computer. A person's need to be nosy can be attributed to several reasons. Some people lack the social skills to back off when they cross a line beyond friendly curiosity. Some others just like to learn personal information and details about others for the sake of knowing. And there are others, who just have a lot of time in their hands and need fodder for spreading office gossip. Whatever the reasons, here are some practical tips on , dealing with  a  nosy co-worker. 

Keep a low profile and be discreet

Be aware of your surroundings when you make personal calls from the office that require you to discuss sensitive issues. Refrain from paying your bills over the phone where you have to reveal your credit card information. Keep in mind that voices do carry through office cubicles and doors. As long as you are discreet in your actions, you will be able to restrict the spread of personal information to colleagues in the office.

Try diplomacy

When you feel like lashing out at your prying colleague's question, take a deep breath and use a diplomatic approach in dissuading them from that line of questioning. A rude remark to tell them to mind their own business, at the first instance, will probably make them back off right away, but will also leave you with a cold and angry colleague.

Use of tact in such situations will yield better results. Sometimes, ignoring the colleague's remarks and changing the topic will give a subtle hint to your co-worker that you are not receptive to such conversation. 

Clear away and lock-up 

There will be times when a nosy co-worker will snoop at your desk to see whatever is there. Make sure that you clear your desk frequently and keep confidential files locked away. Ask fora secure cabinet with a lock and key, if you haven't already got one. This will ensure that you are cautious about leaving sensitive information open to the eyes of wrong persons.

Don't be nosy

Before you go pointing fingers at a nosy co-worker, examine your own behaviour first. Stay away from asking probing questions about someone's personal issues and life.

Don't get sucked into office gossip or talk about a colleague behind their back. When gathering in the office break room or lunch, stick to business and be as professional as possible in your interactions with colleagues. If you focus on your work and have your head down literally, that will persuade the

nosy colleague to walk away. 

Be Upfront

Sometimes, when you've tried all diplomacy tactics to throw the annoying co-worker off your back and still haven't succeeded, it is wise to be upfront with the person to express your concern. Take the person aside and be honest and tell them directly that his behaviour, talk or body language is intrusive and that you don't appreciate questions or talking about personal life. If this co-worker values his job and has some regard for you, he or she will get the message loud and clear and will step away from invading your private space.

Finally, if things continue to remain status quo, talk to your manager and HR in confidence about the issue. Remember, that the best way to handle a nosy co-worker is by exercising a professional relationship with your colleagues and not in cultivating any relationship outside the office. Set your own boundaries and remember that your personal life is something that is off-limits to your co-workers.