Tabitha is speaking with Everette. Close-up of Tabitha speaking with Everette.

Case Study Four

I’ll Think About It

Tabitha is often teased about her coworker Everette having a crush on her. He seems to go out of his way to help Tabitha out whenever needed. Her co-workers get a kick out of making silly faces and gestures behind Everette’s back whenever he’s around helping Tabitha.

What they don’t know is Everette has asked Tabitha out on several occasions and she told him that she would think about it. Tabitha is having second thoughts about dating Everette and instead of starting a dating relationship, she would rather remain friends. She hasn’t told him about her decision, so he keeps asking her out.

How would you classify Tabitha’s conduct regarding this matter?

The correct answer is gray area

This is a gray area because Tabitha has not communicated that she is not interested. What violates policy is asking someone out repeatedly when it is clear they have no interest. If comfortable doing so, Tabitha should tell Everette she is not interested or consult with a supervisor to help resolve the matter.