AWKWARD AFTER FLING AT WORK DO

Dear Coleen

I’ve just been on a work conference abroad and, on the last night, I ended up sleeping with a junior colleague. It’s the usual story – we both had a bit too much to drink and I went back to his room. He is very cute – the office hottie in fact – and one thing led to another.

We had a great time that night, but the next morning it was really awkward. He slunk off to the shower and barely said a word, so I left and we haven’t spoken since.

He’s part of a team that’ll be working for me on a new project, so we’ll have to face each other soon. Although it was fun, I don’t want to sleep with him again and I’m pretty sure he feels the same way.

What’s your advice?

Coleen says

He was probably embarrassed and maybe even a bit worried that he’s overstepped the mark with a senior colleague. I think it’s up to you to take control of the situation and put your relationship back on a professional footing.

Why not email him saying you’re looking forward to moving on from what happened at the conference and working with him on the project.

Or, when you see him at the office, be friendly but ultraprofessional (don’t mention the conference) and show him that you’re back in work mode and expect him to follow suit.

Once some time has passed, it’ll stop feeling awkward. But just keep an eye on how much you’re drinking next time you’re on an away day with work!