I love the phrase “quick chat” because it’s rarely ever actually quick. If it was actually quick, they’d just ask it.
Over time I’ve learned that the correct response is, approximately, “Sorry, I’m in the middle of [important work], please book 30 minutes for us and [stakeholders] to discuss it.” Gives me time to prepare so that I’m not caught off guard. And to bring backup if I think I need it.
I actually had a quick chat with my teammate today. 5 minutes (well we chatted about dumb shit like changing oil on our cars for another 5). Also it wasn't bad, I was checking in to make sure his career objectives were being looked after (he just onboarded a few weeks ago).
Over time I’ve learned that the correct response is, approximately, “Sorry, I’m in the middle of [important work], please book 30 minutes for us and [stakeholders] to discuss it.” Gives me time to prepare so that I’m not caught off guard. And to bring backup if I think I need it.