I managed to screw up by NOT having a workplace romance.

[Wcross]

I work in a factory. I transferred to a new department about a year ago. I happen to work with a woman who is the same height as I (tall). Suddenly I have the "ladies self help society" urging me to ask this woman out. I am a firm believer in not mixing my work with my private life. The "society" has been working on me for over 3 months. One even offered to pay for the date! (Now I am just a prostitute?) Even a few of the woman’s male friends have urged me to take her out.
I have tried to be polite and tell these people I wouldn't date anyone I work with. They keep pushing. I think you might as well just quit as having your life opened up to 100- 200 people who are for the most part, strangers. I have told these people I would be VERY uncomfortable dating a co-worker. I am not being a hypocrite, even if this woman was my type I would not date her for the complications involved.
Now the rumors start. A guy comes up and says something about un-specified rumors. He didn't tell me specifics but it has added another dimension of stress to the job. I don't know if the rumors are about my job performance or that I am going to get fired for whatever reason. The woman is a good worker and friendly with my supervisor. I get no feedback from management about my performance. I am staff the other workers are union.
I don't want to get involved with anyone at work! How freaking hard is that to understand?
I would hate to lose my job (it pays more than the median household income for my area). All I want is for people to leave me alone and do my work.

[sam sarrha]

1. What part of SEXUAL HARASSMENT dont those people understand.?

This is way over the line and you need to go to HR Immediately.!!!!. and tell them..

[Spinzonner]

2. Tell them you're gay ?

Of course that might just be swapping one problem for another ....

[Wcross]

3. The ratio of men to women would make it 4x the problem!

I want to stick to my theory that dating co-workers isn't a good thing. If I turn down the guys, rumors will start about my owning six dogs.............
People at work just can't seem to leave well enough alone.

[Spinzonner]

4. Have you talked to the lady in question

either about it or just in general ?

Not suggesting a relationship or even a date - though that might put a stop to all the lobbying activity.

[Wcross]

5. I talk to her from time to time ...

...as part of my job requirements. I hesitate to bring it up because I don't know if its her doing or her friends trying to fix her up. I would hope word would get back either way that I am not interested.

[caty]

6. Tell them you are already

involved with someone else. I'm not big on lying about things like that, but if it will get them off your back, bring out that imaginary girlfriend.:dilemma: