GUIDELINES TO NRDC feb 24 2014

Avoid Drop-In VisitorsIntroduction You'll accomplish more by controlling the number of uninvited individualswho wander into your area, interrupt your work, and monopolize yourtime.GuidelinesTo avoid uninvited drop-ins, follow these tips:GuidelineDescriptionList of Keep a list of visitors:interrupters x Note drop-ins who monopolize your time.x Make a plan to evade these intruders.Closed doorAmenitiesLocationPostureFlexibilityCandorSilenceNote: If you need information from these uninvited guests,arrange another time to meet with them.If you have an office, keep the door shut when needing timefor yourself.Get rid of chairs, coffee pot, and amenities that lure intruders.If someone wants to talk, suggest going to his office. Whenthe conversation ends, it's easier to get up and leave than it isto get rid of someone on your turf.Also try to locate your work station away from distractionssuch as refrigerators, water coolers, or copiers.When a drop-in enters your area, stand up while talking.Your body language will tell the visitor you haven't time for aleisurely conversation.You'll always face some interruptions, so be prepared tohandle them.Keep your schedule flexible by booking periods of open time.Use it to think, relax, or make up time resulting frominterruptions.If people drop-in and ask if you're busy--x Say "Yes."x If you only have five minutes, tell them so.x Arrange to meet with them later.If visitors continue to ramble on after business is over--x Be quiet--don't encourage them to keep on.x Tell them, "I have to get back to what I was doing--thanksfor stopping by."NRDC GRC – Staff Handbook D-2