Um ... You Talk Too Much
One of the members of our team talks incessantly and some of the other members want him to be transferred - others have threatened violence. How can I make him aware of how his incessant chatter is affecting others without hurting his feelings?
Have you spoken with this team member in private? If not, this is a good starting point.
Another idea, would be to discuss the situation in private with HR, especially if there is an Employee Assistance Program. This team member may benefit from some counseling.
The team may benefit from a group training on tolerance of individual differences where many situations can be discussed including this particular scenario.
If there is one employee interrupting the workflow of multiple employees then you definitely have a problem on your hands. It only takes one to stir the pot! If an evaluation is due, this would be a perfect outlet to bring light to this situation. You may also consider doing a peer review of everyone in the department so you can evaluate the true root of the problem. Ultimately the discussion will have to take place. There is a time for office chatter and a time for work. You will have to make sure that all of your employees understand the difference between work and chatter time.
It sounds like if the situation is not remedied soon, your colleague will have his feelings hurt (or worse). Perhaps talk with him privately at the end of the work week and say, "John, I really appreciate you as a co-worker - you are always friendly, cheerful, and helpful. However, some of the team has been complaining that they are having a hard time focusing on work with all the friendly conversation, so perhaps tone it down a little bit."