Why I Am Definitely Not the Asshole at Work
Anonymous Cheeky Grinner #312 · General
So here's the thing, first day on my new job as an office assistant. Everyone looks so professional and together, while I'm still figuring out how to use all these fancy pens they gave us for signing in. Anyways, it's like 9:30 AM or something, and everyone is already chatting over coffee. The boss comes in a little late with her usual flair and grace, she’s the type who knows exactly when she can be casual and still command respect. So, I think to myself, 'Why not take the initiative? Why wait for introductions when you could be doing them yourself?' With a deep breath, I march over to where she’s setting down her coffee mug (which by the way looks like it was made just for her), and I extend my hand. She looks surprised but takes it warmly anyway, introducing herself properly. 'Nice to meet you,' she says in that bossy-but-friendly voice people in charge have. 'Likewise!' I say a bit too brightly, then promptly forget her last name and the first initial of her title (I’ll spare you the embarrassment by not mentioning it here). But wait, didn't this feel just right? Taking the initiative, showing enthusiasm! Then she asks if there's anything I need help with. 'Oh no,' I stammer, waving my hand as if that's a silly idea, 'I'm sure everything’s under control. Maybe later?' And suddenly everyone is looking at me. Was it too forward? Did I come off like an eager puppy or worse, someone who doesn't know the ropes and is just flailing around? Afterward, when I sit down, I can’t help but think if maybe I overstepped a bit. Or was it just nerves talking? Is this what 'being the new kid on the block' feels like? Did I just make a huge social faux pas in my first week or did I actually do something smart and welcoming that day? Either way, here’s to hoping everyone forgets about me doing the awkward handshake thing by lunchtime. And if they don’t? Well, at least I tried to be proactive... maybe next time I'll have better timing.