I was recently asked this question. I referred the person to Chapter 8 in the book People Maintenance, but thought I’d place it on the blog too.
As discussed in the book, explain to the time-wasting owner that just as their time is very valuable -your time is valuable too. If this isn’t enough to make them keep the conversations short and to the point, then try this approach:
If that doesn’t work then explain to the owner the difference between an employee and a contractor. Per state law, someone else directs an employee’s daily activities. A contractor’s daily activities are directed by them and only reported when the job is completed. Tell the time-wasting property owner since they are directing your daily activities that you are technically their employee and that will need to pay for your payroll taxes! This should get them to stop calling you.