ANSWERS: 4
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Just tell them that you would love to be able to take a break and chat but you are swamped with work and just can't take the time right now and carry on working.
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Tell them (after a couple fo minutes of chit-chat) that you will let them get back to their job now and you'll get back to yours; this makes it sound like you are graciously releasing them from an obligation. Keep this up like a mantra everytime they come over. They'll get the hint sooner or later.
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Ask them, since they are caught up, if they will help you with your job.
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Train them to not come see you by asking them to do a simple task each time the stop by, even if you ask them on the way out. Something simple that doesn't require you to be their manager or supervisor; "hey, you mind dropping this by [so and so]'s desk?", "can you toss this in the trash for me?" that kind of thing. Otherwise you'll have to stab them with your stapler.
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