Was this a rude thing to say and should I have been rude back?

Question

I was having a conversation with a guy I work with last night. We were talking about my major in college and I told him it was journalism. I told him my dad wanted me to do sports journalism but. I didn’t know anything about sports but my dad said it was ok because I’m pretty. For the record, I have been told a lot that I am pretty.
So the guy seemingly agreed at first and said the network would tell me what to say and then later he told me he couldn’t really see me reporting but doing a podcast which was kinda hurtful because reporting is my passion. I told him no one has ever told me that and people have always said they can see me reporting and he said he could see me doing a podcast. I told him I wanted to be on camera though and then he was like “there’s still a way to be on camera”.
But I don’t know. I know there are pretty women with podcasts but I feel like he was basically trying to say I shouldn’t be on tv. The guy has complimented my hair before and like I said, I’m not ugly by any means but what was he trying to say by the podcast thing? Should I take offense?

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

It's possible that the comment made by your coworker was inappropriate or insensitive, particularly if it made you feel uncomfortable or undermined your professional aspirations. It's understandable to feel hurt or offended by comments that suggest that your physical appearance is more important than your skills or abilities.

However, it's important to consider the context and tone of the conversation, as well as the relationship you have with your coworker. It's possible that the comment was intended as a suggestion or alternative idea, rather than a criticism or insult.

In general, it's best to respond to comments that make you uncomfortable or offend you in a calm and professional manner. It's okay to express your feelings and communicate your boundaries, but try to do so in a way that is respectful and maintains a positive working relationship.

If you feel that the comment or behavior from your coworker is part of a larger pattern of inappropriate or unprofessional behavior, or if you feel uncomfortable speaking with him directly, you may want to consider speaking with a supervisor or HR representative for guidance and support.

Gingerbread_GB · Accepted Answer

I think the first thing you gotta ask yourself is why do you care about this guy's opinion? What's he to you? Does it really matter whether he think you are pretty or ugly, photogenic or not? Is he a reporter or work in the industry?