I have just moved into this new position that is in the same building, but it puts me around a different set of co-workers. I've known these people since I've began working at my place of business, but I haven't worked with them as much as I am now.

In this group of co-workers is one guy who loves to talk. He is about 50 years old, has a stutter, and has seemingly befriended me to a point that I'd rather not be. If I'm eating in the dining area, he'll come and talk to me during my whole break. From 6:00 AM until 6:30 there is nothing to do at this job, so he'll call and just talk about random stuff, every single day. He called this morning and said, "You didn't call last night, I was wondering what you were up to?" Then he proceeds to talk to me for 20 minutes about the same things hes talked to me about the last 5 times he has called me. I was typing something online twice during the conversation and he stopped both times and asked me what I was typing.

I feel like this is a platonic thing to him and he just wants a friend because most people try to avoid him at the job. However, its very awkward when he does these things and I'd really rather not talk to him that much while I'm at work. That may sound mean but all 5 times he has called me this week he ends up being the one talking 90% of the time and its about the exact same stuff.

I know this is long, but I am not sure how to handle it without hurting feelings. All I know is it drives me crazy.

12/19/2013 6:38:08 AM

I'm guessing he has some form of a mental disability since he seems to cling on quickly and tightly, and has little/no sense of how to conduct friendly communications.

You're going to have to break it to him that you are busy and can't talk whenever he wants. Be firm but gentle. If there is nothing from 6-630, why are you even there? If you have to be there, then find something to do if you don't want to lie to the guy.

Next step is your/his boss.

[Edited on December 20, 2013 at 9:09 AM. Reason : .]

12/20/2013 9:09:20 AM