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Cubicles Feedback Complaints Working Conditions

Someone left a mean anonymous note on my desk saying that I talk too loud on the phone. We work in cubicles, and I admit that my voice carries, but that's how I talk. Being on the phone is central to my job, and I am successful at it. I'd like to know who wrote the note, but in the meantime, what do you suggest I do?



While pro and con comments about today's open office environments echo across the land, one of the most common cons is that a person's comments in one cubicle can echo across the office. However, psychologically turning off background noise is one of the easiest adjustments for people to make. In fact, if you stop right now and listen to what is going on in your work environment, you might be amazed over what you are blocking out.

There is no reason for you to adjust the volume of your voice in response to this letter. Your communication style has brought you and the company success, and making a change as a result of an anonymous letter is pointless. If one of your associates has a problem with your voice, perhaps the two of you could have worked something out. But, since that co-worker opted to hide in the maze of cubicles, that option does not exist.

You should show the note to your manager and ask him or her if there is a problem. If so, it will be up to the manager to try to correct it. Sometimes this is accomplished by reconfiguring some cubicles or even moving a few people around.

On a final note, do not waste your time trying to find the letter-writer. You obviously have more important things to do, even if he or she does not.




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