Ouch…is all I can say about a recent encounter at work. I absolutely love to read. So as I was walking past someone’s office I noticed a book I had heard great reviews about. I peeped my head into this person’s office and asked,"Have you read that book
pointing to the book?”, I should I have known that things were quickly going downhill when the person didn’t turn around upon hearing my question. But hey…I kept going and asked if possible could I borrow the book? I could immediately since the tension my question created and quickly said, “Oh is it special to you. No problem, I check out books from the library all the time. Don’t worry about it. I can definitely find it at the library.”
Office Mate: Oh, it’s just that whenever I’ve loaned out my books, I don’t get them back.
Me: Oh, I totally understand
(even though, I really don’t. I just wanted this whole awkward situation to end as soon as possible.) Office Mate: You can borrow it if you can find me another book to serve as a bookend.
Me: No, that’s okay. I can definitely find it at the library. Have a good day.
What I’ve Learned from this encounter……
This situation could have totally been avoided if I had kept my mouth shut.
Keep it short and sweet at work and don’t force interactions.
Has this ever happened to you…you’ve tried to be too friendly to someone at work?
