This is one of the problems I had - I have a huge extrovert personality and I'm friendly to everyone - I don't really 'see' those social boundaries - and for 5 years, my office was next door to the woman who became #1 on the org, chart - she was the same age as me but I'm aware that my 'jolly nice chap' persona tends to elicit a 'mothering' instinct. It seems that the jealous, political animals hate people who are open, friendly and have no secrets.
It was only once she had moved on to another position that the others were able to make their move against me.
I sympathise. One being mates with the boss would be a problem for other people, especially if they don't see the relationship like you. You felt that she was being protective and motherly, they may have thought you were sleeping with her.
Banter is a great big no no also in my experience as it can start to go in the wrong direction.
I have to be guarded and weigh people up best I can. Be friendly with everyone, but actually be friends with no one would be my advice to myself iro the workplace, especially with larger government companies.
I sympathise. One being mates with the boss would be a problem for other people, especially if they don't see the relationship like you. You felt that she was being protective and motherly, they may have thought you were sleeping with her.
Banter is a great big no no also in my experience as it can start to go in the wrong direction.
I have to be guarded and weigh people up best I can. Be friendly with everyone, but actually be friends with no one would be my advice to myself iro the workplace, especially with larger government companies.
