How to deal with a co-worker who talks too much?

Stareyes: How do you deal with a co-worker who talks too much about her personal life?
My co-worker talks too much about her personal life with me. She constantly comes to my desk and talks about her daughter, husband, parents, etc.

I don’t like to talk about my past or personal life because its painful. I also believe that work and personal life do not mix.

How do I change the subject to profesional topics without appearing too obvious? She does this with everyone and I find it boring and unprofessional.

Answers and Views:

Answer by O_o
If you can’t find a way to change the subject tell her that you do not feel comfortable talking about this stuff with her and if any one else feels the way you do you and those people should all go tell her the way you guys are feeling.

Answer by Alicia S
I’d just tell her to shut up about her life. She doesn’t see everyone else going around, blurting out the past 20 years of their life to anyone. Might seem rude, but it’ll get it through her head that nobody wants to hear it.

Answer by De
how about not talking with her at all and/or walk away!!

Answer by JoyB
Is the main problem that she interruputs you when you’e working? If so, simply say “I’ cant talk now, I’ve got to finish this report”

If the problem is that you only want to talk about job issues, assert yourself and switch topics.
You could choose something she knows about, pick her brain. If pickings are slim, ask her a question that requires more opinion than expertise

For example “I’ve been meaning to ask you, does it seem that we’re even busier now that the new efficiency system is in place?

If you can’t bring yoursef to do that, or if the co-worker has seniority and you’re cautious about being direct you could
shift topics gradually, something like this: I’m sorry about your mother-in law’s botched gastric bypass surgery.Speaking of medical care, I’ve been meaning to ask you, which do you think is better, Cigna or Health Net?”

Answer by katchhall22
I am just wondering to myself if this is on her part a cry for help or a call for attention? Sometimes knowing someones motive is key in the way to deal with someone effectively. I would be polite and firm, expressing that your sorry things are difficult for her and that perhaps, leaving her troubles at home and focusing on work and other things would help lessen the stress. If you feel that she is wanting your attention specifically, approach a teamwork attitude with her and ask her for direction or help with what it is you do there. Good luck