Coworkers approach
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
Wave beside the coworker so you catch the corner of their eye, rather than waving directly in front of their face.
This avoids directly interfering with their work.
3 people, independently
- Position yourself where the coworker can see you, such as peeking above a cubicle wall, before attempting to interact.1
- Contact a coworker via internal messaging, email, or instant message instead of physically interrupting them.3
Tap or knock lightly on the corner of the coworker's desk to get their attention.
The person can feel the vibration, and other people in the office might be less interrupted by this.
- This is an annoying option.
one person who lived it
Discuss with the coworker to agree on a specific method for getting their attention in the future.
It is better than randomly trying things until something works.
2 people, independently
Apologize to the coworker for past intrusive behaviors, such as pulling out their headphones.
The coworker might still be hurt by your past behaviors.
one person who lived it
2 more on this
Mime taking headphones out after catching the coworker's attention to signal that you need to speak.
They will understand the signal.
one person who lived it
Leave a written note on the coworker's desk when they are away or occupied.
one person who lived it