The woman who works in the cubicle behind me has coworkers drop by and chat…all the time! I’ve tried noise-canceling headphones but it still interferes. We’re not on good terms to begin with. Help!

If things are already strained between you and Chatty Cathy, the last thing you want is to stoke the flames. If talking to her is still an option, politely ask if she’s willing to take it to the break room or kitchen. If approaching her is out of the question, it’s time you got hip to the magic of a white noise machine. There are several affordable ones that dull the racket of offices. Make one yours ASAP!

-- The Nest Editors

See More: Career Coach , Money , Money Q&A