gemini, I am working with someone who does that very thing and I find it exceedingly annoying. It is not a question of age, she is about 5 years older than I. If someone asks a question to either of the other 2 secretaries in the office, this one runs right over us with her response. And sometimes her answer isn't even right! I have had to grit my teeth numerous times to keep from shouting - shut up - he's not talking to you!!!!!!
Our supervisor recently mentioned to me that this secretary is aware that she does this. Now, let's see whether or not she changes!
The problem with that type of behavior is that makes the person who has been shoved aside feel insignificant. It's as if the person is saying "look at me, talk to me, I'm the only one who knows anything".
More than likely, she doesn't mean that, any more than you did. But that is certainly how it makes me feel, so I can understand where your colleague was coming from. And I guess if you add in the age factor in your case, she probably really resented you.
Well I'm glad you got out of that uncomfortable situation. Now, let's hope my colleague does something about it before I smash her in the mouth
