DEAR ABBY: I'm 25 years old, have my bachelor's degree, bought a house and work a great full-time job. I think it's safe to say that I have established myself as an adult. However, an older co-worker seems to associate me with his grandchildren because of my youthful appearance.
He calls me "kiddo" and "buddy." Instead of greeting me the way he does everyone else, he says, "Boo!" I usually smile and nod in response because I'm not sure what response he expects. Recently he said, "You're supposed to say, 'Eek!'"
I understand he's being friendly, but it makes me uncomfortable. I find it childish and not respectful. Should I continue to ignore it, or is there a polite way to ask him to stop? -- BIG GIRL NOW
DEAR BIG GIRL: Don't ignore it. When it happens again, take him aside and tell him privately that being treated differently from the other employees makes you uncomfortable. Explain that it's disrespectful and you want it stopped. If he doesn't comply, tell your supervisor or boss that you have spoken to him about this and it persists.