Dear Swanky:

I’d say: don’t be formal at all; be nice, smile, be friendly. You can plan ahead of time (before you see her at work) what topics you will bring up to her, what topics you will not, and how you will answer if she asks you certain questions. For example, if she does notice that something is off about you, and asks you: what’s wrong?- plan how to respond to this question. If she is overly friendly/ flirtatious with you, plan how to respond to that. Also, if you are in a situation with her and it’s awkward, you can plan to excuse yourself to the bathroom, wash your face with cold water and take a few deep breaths.

Preparing will cause you to feel less awkward, less anxious and more in control around her. Prepare and rehearse.

anita