You've been at your new job for about three months now. You love the work, the hours, even the people, but there's one co-worker who doesn't know how to respect your personal space. You're currently working directly together on your first major project, and every time you meet to discuss, he's up in your face — it's official, he's a close talker!
You're not claustrophobic per se, but you do appreciate a comfortable distance between those you're engaging in conversation. Since you're still the "new girl" around the office, you don't know how to bring it up without hurting his feelings, but you simply can't take talking nose to nose for much longer. This is going to be an awkward moment for both of you so tell me, so how would you handle it?
Milano
Kit Heath
Matches Fashion
Same way I handle it at my work when people hover. It's nothing against you in particular, I'm just someone who prefers a little more personal space than others.
1Oh god....I have such a problem with this! I'm kinda clausterphobic and when someone is too close to me I get really nervous,sweaty, irritable etc! I've found myself being really catty when ppl do this...
2I'd be really, really blunt. I'd put my arm out and say "If I can touch you you are standing too close" and just move on.
3Sneeze on him. He'll learn.
4Hahahaha cokerad!!!
5I would love to do what pop said, but I would prob. inch away whenever he talks to me and put something between us, like a desk to try and give him a hint at first at least.
well I'm Australian and in general we seem to have the hugest personal spaces! this used to happen to me a lot when i was at uni as the american students always seemed to end up right up in your face and seriously the only thing i could do is keep backing away! one guy literally backed me into a wall though because he just kept coming closer!
6lol at jesi_oh
i would just say to them "hey i have an issue with personal space. would you mind taking a few steps back?"
how can they get mad at you for being polite?
7I agree with designere. Just be polite and explain that you like your personal space. Nothing wrong with that.
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