A co-worker made fun of me to a new member of staff.....?

Question

saying how I used to be "scared" of her, "shaking" etc., I admit I am shy and was intimidated by the person's outgoing nature.
Why would she make that sort of joke to someone she just met?
A phycological perspective.....

Answer 1

My guess is that she identifies herself largely through her work persona and her authoritative nature. She buttresses this identity at your expense by making such comments around a new person, and simultaneously sends out a message to the new person that she is not a person to cross, thereby impressing her perception of herself onto others in an attempt to manifest it. She may feel more powerful and confident at work than anywhere else, and so wants to protect those feelings.

There is no excuse for her behavior as you cite it, regardless of the underlying motivation for it. It is unprofessional and unkind.

Answer 2

Maybe she's a cow? I suspect she's establishing herself as top dog to the newbie. What you should do is say something like "Well you are pretty scary...looking!" Then take the new person out for drinks after work.
No need to declare war with the scary gal...it'll not be pretty. But I would definitely stand up to her.

Answer 3

She's a jerk and trying to get in (though in a very poor way) with the new employee. Don't pay her any mind. She isn't worth it. If she keeps it up, confront her directly on it and let her know you see her game.

Answer 4

to try an intimidate the new employee and make you look like a mouse

Answer 5

to make themselves seem more powerful, and to intimidate a new colleague , sad really , you just have to think that this person is really insecure in their own lives and they are just trying to make themselves feel better ,at someone Else's expense , you have to pity them really

Answer 6

They are bored *******; they are bored out of their minds

and just want to make fun of people to try to better

themselves.