Down the rabbit-hole.

September 03rd, 2008

What rabbit-hole could you avoid scampering down today? The hallway conversation that turns into a major gripefest, or into more work for you to do? The long, pointless trek around the Internet for something not-so-important? What?

Here are some suggested remedy phrases. Use them liberally — and early! — on yourself and others to head off any rabbit-hole journeys before you ever get underground.

  • “Wow, sounds interesting, but I’m underwater right now. Good luck!”
  • “Whoa — how long is this going to take? How many minutes?”
  • “Okay, but that’s not what we’re talking about right now.”
  • “Oh, sorry, but I’m right in the middle of something.”
  • “I’m afraid I can’t help you with that.”
  • “Oh, man — don’t get me started.”
  • “Ah, it’s not worth worrying about.”
  • “That will keep until tomorrow.”
  • “Hmm, probably not the best use of our time.”
  • “Does it matter one way or the other? I’m thinking probably not.”
  • “Well, that whole story doesn’t concern us right now.”
  • “I’d love to talk more some other time, but . . .”

What would you add to this list?

~

(Photo by Lee Coursey.)

Category: The language of business, The working life

3 Comments so far

Miz Liz September 3rd, 2008 5:50 am

Let me get back to you a bit later when I can sit and digest.

Brenda Clark September 3rd, 2008 6:29 am

“Let me just finish this project for [insert name of boss, CEO, major client -- recognizable as important] and I’ll get back to you later”

Tim Walker September 4th, 2008 11:18 am

Liz — I like your phrase because it highlights the importance you place on the person you’re talking to, i.e., BECAUSE you’re so important, I’m asking you to wait until I can give you my sincere attention.

Brenda — I like yours because it highlights the *relative* importance of the person’s interruption: yes, I want to give you my attention, but meanwhile the Big Boss has given me a higher priority to work on.

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