Emotion: disgust
Problem: job crisis
Situation: Boss keeps hitting on a co-worker, who really doesn't like the guy. What can I do to make it stop?

assistant: Hi, how are you today?

user: I'm doing fine. My proble m is that my boss keeps hitting on a co-worker, who really doesn't like the guy. What can I do to make it stop?

assistant: Boy, that's a tough one. You've got to handle a problem like that pretty diplomatically. Have you talked to your co-worker, the one the boss hits on?

user: I've tried to bring it up with her indirectly, but it's an uncomfortable issue, you know? She is really upset, and I don't know whether it's my place to handle this kind of thing. It's more of an HR issue, but should I go to HR? Will that help, or just get me in trouble? I don't know.

assistant: That's a good question, and I don't know the answer. It depends on your HR department. Have you suggested that the co-worker talk to HR? Is there an anonymous system for filing complaints?

user: No, the company hasn't set up a system for passing along info that way. I don't know if she has talked to HR. She might not have because she's worried that it'll get back to her boss, and she'll get punished. I'd like to be supportive, even if I can't help solve the problem.

assistant: That's a good attitude. You want to be supportive and helpful. You sound like a good co-worker. Remember that the problem did not start with you, so you do not need to feel responsible for it.

user: Thanks for your words of encouragement? Maybe there is little I can do, but I don't want to let the problem fester. She's a great co-worker and a great worker. We need her on the team. What do you think a good first step would be?

assistant: That's a good question. I would show support for her and empathize with her and her situation. Do you have lunch with her? Can you send her a text letting her know she's valued? She might appreciate that.

user: Sometimes we have lunch, but usually she just eats at her desk. I could easily send her texts of encouragement.

assistant: Ok. That's a good first step. I think you have a way forward with this. Maybe after a few texts, you can sit down and talk about solutions in detail, like going to HR.

user: Ok. I'll try sending a couple of texts every day. Then I'll see if she wants to have lunch outside with me when the weather gets better.

assistant: That's a good positive step. I think that you've got a pretty handle on the situation. Good for you!

user: Thanks. The boss is pretty good at his job. He know how to manage projects and he's good with clients. There is just this one thing that he gets wrong and somebody needs to get him to stop.

assistant: I understand that you're frustrated and sad. I would feel the same way too. I think that anyone else in your situation would feel the same way.

user: Thanks. I guess I just have to accept things as they are. I can't afford to leave this job, and it's impossible to find another job at this time. Plus I don't want to abandon my co-worker in her time of need.

assistant: Well, you have to do what is right for yourself. If you find a better job, think seriously about taking it. Your co-worker will not be there forever. You have a responsibility to yourself.

user: True. I hadn't thought of it that way. I should consider my needs. Thanks!

assistant: You're welcome! I'm glad that I was able to help you!

user: I feel a lot better now. I start sending text messages to my co-worker on Monday. Thanks! Have a good day!