Message #51181

[claudiamag]

When he tries to make chit chat with you don't make eye contact with him and try to keep your voice even toned (try not to inflict any emotion).  Answer his questions in the shortest manner possible without adding any details.  If he wants to know more he will have to drag it out of you - not fun for him.  If he mentions what you are wearing don't say anything back, just keep a serious face and let him continue talking - he WILL eventually run out of things to say and feel uncomfortable and leave.  Or, after a few questions from him say "I'm in the middle of a project, did you need something?"  He usually won't have anything to say and leave.  If he does ask you for him with something, ask very precise short questions related to his project.  If he goes off subject don't comment about what he said just ask your question again until he gives you the information needed and then say "I'll work on this and bring it (send it to you) when I am done", then turn around and continue working.  Again, he will feel uncomfortable and leave.

I find that a lot of men who lack social skills do this to woman they work with.  They feel comfortable with them, so they try to show their dominance.  If you take away their comfort zone by not making it easy for them, they will leave you alone and move on.

Of course, you could always just saying "GO AWAY - I am not your friend!!"  (yes, I have said that to a couple of guys in my office and they did).