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Discussion on: What should I do when I get hit on by colleagues?

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James O'Donnell

As long as there is sexuality as part of humanity, I don't think this will ever go away. Even the most aware, married, dedicated, asexual, robotic of us run into relationships that we would like to grow where the other person doesn't. (Not always sexual either)

That said, being frank about your purpose at a place and reminding people of that has been effective for me. Staying on topic and drawing people back on topic has a sobering and rationalizing effect on reasonable people. If the interested party doesn't clue in from subtlety, don't be subtle. If the flirtation continues after that point, you have crossed the line into harassment and I would consider reporting that person to HR.

I think the only way to build the wrong bridge would be to use the other person's attraction to your advantage. Other than that, if you don't feel it, say so with gusto. If you are in a healthy shop, you will be respected for this. This kind of emotional clarity is super helpful. If you are in a Bro-gramming zone and didn't know you were, this will show you the truth and that you should leave. Soon.

My $.02