What to do if I want to avoid someone at a work event who I don't want to speak to for something so inexcusable?

[Anonymous]

I don't know how clueless this girl is... when my grandmother died everyone I worked with sent me their sympathies. Yeah, nothing they can do can change anything, but it's the little thought that counts. She said NOTHING to me. I won't forget that... At the work event she'll try to hug me and talk to me, and just no... We are remote, so I try to minimize my communication with her to essentials. I don't want to act all friendly to her in person. I know how these events work. I won't be able to avoid her totally.

[Oliverlogan263]

Here are some suggestions for how to handle it:

- Go with a group of your other work friends so you're never alone where she can corner you. Safety in numbers.

- If she does come up to you, keep it very brief and polite but busy. "Excuse me, I need to refill my drink/check on something in the oven/etc." Wave and hurry off.

- If all else fails, just be honest but kind. "I'm still feeling some hurt from before and trying to keep some distance. I hope you understand." She caused issues, she may have to deal with awkwardness.

- Consider chatting with your manager privately. Let them know the situation calmly without accusations in case she causes a scene. They can help defuse things.

- STICK WITH YOUR FRIENDS. Seriously, that's the best defense. She can't pull her crap if you're surrounded by your people.

Don't stress too much. You don't owe her friendship after how sh€ treated you. Just be civil but distance yourself as needed. You got this - hopefully she'll get the hint and back off!

[thisAppIsGarbage]

You should quit and find another job where she won't be so important to you

[Anonymous]

You are expecting too much out of people.

[Asker]

That is too much? huh