Have you ever met a close-talker? If you’re wondering a what, it sounds exactly as it reads, my dear reader.
Close-talkers do not solely occupy one region of the world either. In fact, a close-talker can be found anywhere in the world. I’ve come across some in Florida to even a couple in Oregon. Although one may believe close-talkers travel in packs, they are somewhat of an individual, even among their family.
Yet, how can you be sure it’s a close-talker and not someone who is about to give you CPR? Well, this is why it’s imperative that a person knows how to identify a close-talker, especially when at first glance (and from afar) because he or she will appear to look like a normal-distant talker.
How to identify a close-talker.
- He or she will be completely unaware of your personal space. They don’t realize that people have a boundary. Most of us have an imaginary bubble around ourselves, shielding us from the outer world. The size of our bubble depends on a few things: our weight, height, sex, and cultural background. (It also doubles in size when you’re a couple in love.)
- Within minutes of speaking to a close-talker, you feel your bubble pop. Uneasiness will most likely ensue. Bubble will rebuild itself in three to five days. Again, it depends on the size.
- After your bubble has been popped by said close-talker, he or she will continue to talk while inching closer, and closer, and closer to your face.
- Seinfeld has given a visual example.
How do you act if you encounter a close-talker?
- Don’t run. Whatever you do, do not run. It will just confuse the close-talker. Or worse–he or she will follow you to continue telling their story.
- Lean your head, subtly, in the opposite direction of the speaker.
- Although you’re likely thinking, “Why is his nose touching mine while talking?” Pretend your listening to them by smiling and nodding.
- If close-talker has just came back from eating a garlic pizza and having a cigarette break, sometimes a step (or two) back is needed. Fortunately for you it’s likely they won’t even notice. They’re too engaged with what they’re saying.
So, why do they do this?
- No one knows (not even scientists!), but some like to speculate it’s because they lack a bubble.
*Getty Images
Oh yes, I know a close talker! It can be a frustrating exchange with the lack of personal space.
Cool post! Wonder how man people have this experience?
I like when a reader can relate. I would imagine most people have run into a few, right? In fact, my past few bosses have all been close-talkers for some reason. Someone told me it’s an intimidation thing, perhaps they are right.
Don’t run! Classic, very funny. Thank you!
No, no. Thank YOU for reading.
I think I’ve met one, but hoping to not meet another; I shall be on my guard with these very nice tips, however.
I’m glad to have helped. :)
Close talkers usually have a bad case of halitosis, too. Maybe they just want to show off their bad breath.
You may be right. And see, I have this fear of having bad breath so it REALLY makes things uncomfortable for me.
I used to babysitter a girl that had no concept of personal space – her parents used to call her the Space Invader :)
hah! Brilliant!
I used to work with a girl who, after a drink or two, would literally lean her nose on your face when she talked to you. There are so many things wrong with that.
Did you tell her to get her nose off of you? I don’t think I’d be able to tell someone that they’re too close (even if their nose was touching!) but then again, if they’re inebriated…I suppose it would be easier.
Thanks for reading!
Nope, we all knew she did it and we were all too grossed out (or polite?) to say anything. Even thinking about it gives me the heebs now!