How do you confront a co-worker who makes you the butt of her jokes?

Question

I feel partially responsible for this because I've been too nice (or cowardly) to tell her that the way she talks to me is annoying and somewhat hostile. This co-worker is a 50-something at a dead-end position making crappy pay. At first, I took her joking ways as playful and harmless. But lately, the other girls at work are following her lead. They collectively tell me to get them coffee, do this, do that. They recommend that I should have fun w/ my wife more. They ask why aren't I doing anything fun with my wife. Why am I so boring. And on and on w/ the personal stuff. They even accused me of being gay at one point. I'm a 20-something graduating student. Part of me wants to tell her off. The other part wants to ignore her because in the long run, I'm better off than her. What do you think I should do?

Answer 1

If you look at the laws concerning sexual harrassment, this comes under the heading of "Creating a Hostile Work Environment". That is a phrase that your management will understand, because they don't like getting sued.
First, start documenting each instance of harassment (date, time, who you talked to). Second, speak to your co-worker and document that. Third, go speak to management and document that. If, by that time, nothing has changed, you now have a case that will stand up in court.

Answer 2

Definitely approach your boss over this. You can also go to the Human Resources department and have them look into this anonymously for you. It downright cruel and considered harassment, especially the ordering around. Don't confront her either. She sounds like a loose canon ready to go off. Good luck!

Answer 3

tell ur manager. Why are you putting with this. You should of stopped it right there and what the hell is her problem. How u and ur wife concern of her.