Q: I work in an open office environment.   I must be extra sensitive to noise.  Some of my co-workers are loud.  Some hum while doing their work.  One guy blows bubbles with his bubble gum, and then they pop loudly. There is another co-worker who sings. 

A: Open offices have been trending for a while.  However, COVID may have had many employers re-think this concept.  I think many employers thought this would increase collaboration between employees, but they also allow for more interruptions.  There is some data to suggest that open offices aren’t promising what many expected them to deliver.  Sure, they look great but employees seem to be emailing or instant messaging more often while working in an open office.  Additionally, many employees feel like there are too many distractions and their ability to focus and concentrate are impacted.    

Being an extrovert, I struggle with open offices too.  I seem to find an excuse to chat every time someone walks by.  However, I have found some tips and tricks that seem to work. 

Good luck.  I hope some of these tips give you the quiet you need to be successful. 

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