Use an "arm's length" rule as a baseline for professional distance.
Before reacting, it is important to distinguish between unintentional behavior and a deliberate boundary violation. In many cases, what feels personal is actually a byproduct of the environment.
Many people have "fidgety movements" or specific ways of sitting that they aren't aware of until someone points it out.
Check if her workstation or monitor placement naturally forces her to pivot in a certain direction to see her screen or speak to someone else.
While it might feel like a minor or even bizarre issue, navigating awkward physical orientation in the office is a real challenge for maintaining professionalism and personal comfort. Whether it's a result of desk layout or a specific behavioral quirk, 1. Evaluate the Context and Intent
If she turns toward you while you are working, avoid immediate eye contact or a "smile" that might invite further interaction. Instead, maintain a look of concentration on your screen to signal you are busy.
Gently shift your own chair or body slightly away to create a physical "threshold" that reinforces your personal workspace. 3. Addressing the Issue Directly
If the behavior makes you uncomfortable but doesn't yet warrant a formal conversation, you can use your own body language to signal a need for more space.
If the behavior persists and continues to distract you, it is better to address it clearly and calmly rather than letting frustration build. 6 Steps to Confront Negative Behavior at Work