My boss has a crush on me… how do I turn him down?
I'm a 24-year-old intern at an investment bank in NYC. Last night, at a team gathering, my married male manager made me an alcoholic drink, waited with me for my Uber, and later texted me saying, 'You're really something special, you know?' He has a say in whether I get a return offer, so I don't want to upset him, but it feels off. Am I overreacting? How should I respond?
Handling unwanted romantic advances in the workplace involves tact and professionalism. It's important to set clear boundaries while being respectful. Start by acknowledging your boss's compliments without encouraging further advances. You might say something like, 'Thank you, but I prefer to keep our relationship professional.' If the behavior persists, consider discussing your discomfort with HR to ensure a safe working environment. Remember, workplace romances can complicate career dynamics, especially with power imbalances. Focus on your tasks and maintain professionalism, ensuring your work speaks for itself. You have the right to feel safe and valued in your internship without the added complexity of unwanted attention. If you're uncertain about your feelings or how to handle the situation, seeking advice from trusted colleagues or mentors can provide additional clarity. The key is to remain assertive while not jeopardizing your internship prospects.
The last one seems the most professional. If he responds with more flirting that’s when you should say something in the lines of “I think we should keep a very professional relationship only” You can elaborate if you want to by saying you wouldn’t want to mess up your opportunity.