cross-posted from: https://linux.community/post/3368394
and how do you deflect prying questions about you and limit these rituals to 2 minutes instead of wasting 30 minutes?
asking as somebody who, if not on the spectrum, is socially awkward, likes solitude, boundaries and to be left alone (to do the job)
I still believe none of your answers is going to help me because neurotypical solutions don’t work for me but I have nothing to lose with this question.
help them when they have questions
cover their section when they use the bathroom or take a break
warn them that the manager is incoming if they’re on their phone
tell them they’re pretty / compliment their outfit / notice if they change their hairstyle
remember their preferred name / nickname / pronouns
This is on top of a base level of respectful behavior, such as:
treating them as equals
going to someone directly if there’s a problem with their behavior, and only elevating it to mgmt if they won’t change or compromise
not stealing from them (shifts, customers, sections, cash)
not interrupting when they are talking
As to your issue with prying questions, I’ve found a simple “I’m not comfortable talking about that at work” usually does the trick. Or if you want to have fun with it, an outrageous lie can also work, eg.
℣: “Where did you grow up?”
℟: “I’m actually a time-traveller from the distant future, but now that my mission was successful and Herman de la Rosa has been assassinated, my hometown will never exist.” Edit: … and then say “It’s a very painful subject,” and walk away quickly.
Up to you.