Asking Eric: Big personalities in a small office have one co-worker feeling like an Orwellian ‘unperson’
By R. Eric Thomas
Published on March 19, 2026.
A man, 61 years old, who works at a law firm with a billable hours requirement, who is largely ignored due to his quiet demeanor and preference for work over socializing, is asked to be more included in after-hours work events and activities by staff members. The older coworker is treated as a princess due to her assertiveness and top seniority. The author suggests that it may be helpful to shift your perspective on the situation and identify the person or person who organizes these events and requests to be included from the start. However, the author acknowledges that difficult personalities in the office may not be able to build a workplace culture that isn't toxic.
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