Member-only story
1. Adopt the role of the host. When you find yourself in a situation where you need to engage in a conversation with someone, take the initiative to be the visitor. Instead of waiting for them to come to you, make the effort to go to their office. By doing so, you are able to take control of the length of the visit. This approach allows you to have a better understanding of your own time constraints and ensures that the conversation does not exceed your available time.
2. Create a conducive work environment. Consider the arrangement of your workspace and position yourself in a way that minimizes interruptions. If possible, position your desk in a manner that allows you to face away from the door. This way, when visitors approach your office, they can easily see that you are engrossed in your work and may be less inclined to disturb you. This subtle visual cue can help deter unnecessary interruptions and allow you to focus on your tasks more effectively.
3. Utilize the availability of a door. If you are fortunate enough to have an office with a door, take advantage of this feature to manage your interactions. When you need uninterrupted time, close the door to signal to others that you are engaged in important work. This physical barrier can act as a visual cue to discourage visitors from entering your office…
