A recent survey conducted by Randstad USA reveals that loud talkers are among the biggest pet peeves in the workplace. Add the noise that's coming from keyboards, speakers, and your phone ringing, and you can have yourself a very unproductive work environment. I will admit that my cell phone goes off from time to time, but in my defense, it's usually Eckerd calling to remind me that my prescription is ready, or it's my mom calling. Leave her alone.

So how do you deal with someone who needs to literally tone it down? O'Donnell, a career coaching expert, suggests the victim approach the raucousin' dude (or dudette) in a direct but calm and civil manner, to avoid coming off as hostile. "Focus on the action that's bothering you, not the person, and don't make value judegments." Furthermore, as the New York Times article states, only go to HR if it's absolutely necessary.

If that doesn't work, I would suggest you drop an email to that loudmouth. In all caps, of course.