The Too Friendly Coworker . . .

I don't date coworkers. If you're in a relationship with a coworker, that's fine. What works for you, might not work for me. I've been in a romantic relationship with someone and employed at the same company. Not the greatest experience; arguments and fights at the job with everyone knowing our personal business. More importantly, it's one thing to wake up with a person, but to actually see the same person at work-that's a lil' bit too much of in-your-face-day-and-night for me.

Nevertheless, office romance is bound to happen. You're in the same atmosphere for close to forty hours a week-an attraction is bound to develop. There might be someone that you like. Then there might be someone that likes you. All of that is fine, given the case that  the two of you actually like each other amorously and agree to exchange numbers and pursue a relationship.

But what about the coworker that is excessively friendly? The coworker that likes you, but you don't like that coworker (i.e., amorously)? The coworker that calls you or texts you, but you never gave that person your number? The coworker that sends you endless e-mails striking up personal conversation, rather than professional? The coworker that wants to treat you to lunch? Or wants to hang out on the weekend?

In any event, there isn't anything wrong being coworkers. Moreover, there is nothing sinister with actually being an amiable coworker; I would rather like someone that I work with than despise that person. But there must be boundaries! Some things are borderline sexual harassment and stalking. What do you do when a person crosses that boundary?

Immediately, do not entertain the unwanted flirting, texts, or phone calls. Make it explicitly clear that you feel uncomfortable and if it is not job-related, there is no reason for outside-of-work communication. Be stern and straightforward. If the unwanted advances or communication continue, then perhaps it's time to speak with Human Resources.

Don't allow your too friendly coworker to make your work environment uncomfortable. More importantly, when you're in your personal space at home, this too friendly coworker should not be an annoyance. Nip it sooner than later; it could lead to a fatal attraction.