What do you mean by she was "mean to me"? What exactly did she do? Your primary job at work is to do your job. But often, your real job is to make your boss look good... that is, if you have ambitions with that company. If the woman is truly being abusive, that's something you should keep addressing with your boss, or even his boss if you can't get results. But "mean" is too vague... lots of people in business are less than friendly, that doesn't justify refusing to work with them on it's own. Probably the real issue here is that you feel unappreciated by your boss. Is it just this incident, or is this chronic? If you don't feel like your work is valued, if he doesn't tell you that, or signal in some way that you're important, you're likely to have ongoing problems enjoying your job. This is something you may be able to talk to him about.

Hi there Sheepingly, This is just my opinion, but having been in management, my suggestion is to try to turn off the emotional switch when it comes to the mean lady. If your boss says that you should smile and say 'hi' each morning, then that's what you do. If your boss tells you to go and help her, then that's what you do. Sometimes things may seem unfair, but much of the time managers 'are' aware and handling things out of sight of the crowd because they need to be discrete, while making things work in the bigger picture. If you are someone who can take a tough situation and handle it gracefully and professionally, then I'd bet money that it won't go unnoticed when it comes time for reviews, merit increases, and perhaps even promotions somewhere down the line. In regards to this woman taking up your time, my suggestion is to keep good track of how your time is spent. If the topic ever arises with your boss, then you will be prepared to go over it with her and show her how much time this woman is actually taking up. I have been in this situation (or something very similar), and when I was asked to take on a new project, I said to my boss "Well, I would love to do this project but, I am already working over 50 hours a week, so I am not sure how to fit it in." I kept close track of my time and when my boss saw what was happening, he agreed that it was time to let the slackers fend for themselves. And I was freed up to do a project that I was excited about. At some point, the slackers will have to sink or swim. In the meantime, show your boss that you are competent and will go above and beyond the call of duty. Your boss will appreciate it and you send the message that you can handle a lot of responsibility :) Good luck and hang in there!

I will tell you the same thing my mom would tell me if I were in this situation: you catch a load more flies with honey than with vinegar. I think you should go out of your way to be nice to the b*tch and compliment her at every possible moment. Become her new best friend and offer in a gushy way to help in any way you can if her work is overwhelming her. You may go further with her as an ally than as an enemy. I know this will be difficult at first, but bite your tongue, girl, and SUCK UP!! The next time you come up for a pay raise, be sure to remind your boss of how well you work with even the most difficult people.

Sheep, You will encounter the problem you've described repeatedly unless you learn to handle it right here and now as unpleasant as this advice may sound. This is one of those life's lessons thrown your way, in order for you to learn how to cope with adversity. Master this challenge you are having with "the mean lady" and you will instinctively know how to handle the next mean person who gives you a rough time, and without stressing out or having to walk away from an otherwise great job. Incidentally, no prospective employer likes a quitter or an person perceived as overly sensitive, so tap your inner strength in figuring out how to rise as a champion for yourself in this trying situation with dignity, courage, and professionalism, leaving only if have a better offer somewhere else waiting. This will not only make you a sought after employee, but grow you as a person.