Hi Audrey

Ahhh, the old work place! There is a rotten apple in every barrel! LOL

In most cases it has nothing to do with the individual (in this case, you). People have problems in their personal lives. With this fast paced world long hours, union disputes, fear of loss of job, management problems and a beginning of a new year will do it everytime!

This is how I deal with this situation:

PERSON REALLY IS CRANKY ALL THE TIME: I never give these type of people the satisfaction of getting to me. I always will nod (instead of saying hello) and, on occasion will even smile at them. If I do not get a warm welcome, the next step! As you go by these people let "your eyes do the talking." Just look at them and "don't smile" or "don't frown." This brings the curiosity out in people such as this and they will eventually strive harder to make contact with you. Works everytime.

HAVE A WORK BUD GETTING YOU DOWN? The person is usually nice, may be going thru a rough time in their personal life or even fearful they are going to be fired. Sometimes these people have no idea how to handle their particular situation so they vent. You can either listen patiently and try to understand, but most importantly, try to give some solid advice. If you have done what you can and this person is just a "complainer" try fixing it the nice way first .... change the subject! Talk about a movie you've just seen, something that is bothering yourself and if all else fails with this person say, "I've offered advise and you've chosen not to take it. Therefore, I don't want to hear about it anymore!" I've had to do this and I know it's hard to do, but it cuts through a lot of hard feelings and will prevent you from snapping at the person caused by a bad day of your own.

As far as sexual harrassment something went very wrong there. Either there was no evidence to go against the accused person or the employees "chickened out" didn't come forward and get this person. Sexual harrassment is rarely ever tolerated in the workplace. Something was not right with this one. If it should happen to anyone or yourself, report it, and stick with it. If you know someone else in the workplace has reported such an incident and you have seen it with your own eyes, please back this person up and report it to your supervisor.

I know this will help hon. I deal with people every day. Unfortunately, there is always that one person that is crude, rude, tries to be all powerful and pushy. Just look at them with no expression and keep out of their way if possible. Good luck!