Mary Kate, from Connecticut, Shares the Dos and Don'ts of Working in Corporate America.

Q: Where are you from?
Bridgeport, Connecticut

Q: Biggest accomplishment you achieved on your own?
Biggest accomplishment I have achieved on my own?  Reaching 38!  I have wonderful friends & family who have always supported me.  I would like to think they have helped me be the person I am today. 

Q: As a single working in corporate America, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced?
I find that being single in corporate America is a good thing.  I enjoy working, but have found that people can take advantage.  Working in technology there are late nights and overnights; the single person is usually first on the list for those events.  One positive (if you like to travel) is that people know it is a lot easier for a single person to pack a bag on short notice and fly out to the UK for 6 months (did that a couple of times).

Q: What do you think are the biggest mistakes singles make in the workplace?
There are a couple of big mistakes singles can make in the workplace – one I feel is to over emphasize your current relationship status.  People just don’t want to hear over and over again that you are single and out on the hunt.  Just skip asking if that newbie is single – if you really want to know – work on getting to know that newbie on your own.  Another mistake I have made is to get involved with a co-worker in the same department.  If it ends and it is not on your terms – it can make for a difficult day (especially if they get engaged shortly thereafter!).  One thing you need to remember in that situation is to get over it quickly and be happy that your ex found happiness (yes – it does take time).  Overindulging at the Xmas party – always do at your own risk!

Q: Everyone loves a good pick up line or strategy. How do you go about talking to strangers or meeting new people?
When I am in a situation where there are new people around, I like to make people feel comfortable.  I will hold a door for someone, or let someone get up closer to the bar so they can order a drink (sometimes a free drink is the result).  If I see a guy that I would like to talk to – I will say “Hi” and see what happens.  It is pretty easy if you are at an event like a concert – you already know that you have something in common – they like music and so do you. 

Q: Studies recently revealed that Romantic Comedies can be bad for singles because it sets our expectations too high. Do you have any thoughts on that?
Romantic Comedies generally make me feel good – I try to remember that they are just movies.  At the same time, I end up pretty hopeful that something magical will happen next time I go to the supermarket, while I am getting gas or that long lost love will hunt me down on Facebook.

Q: Breaking up with friends is hard to do. Have you ever had to call it quits on someone and how did you handle it?
It is a tough call to get involved with a friend – taking that “friendship” to the next level.  You really need to think if your friendship can handle that change.  I hate to go into a relationship and then start thinking about what it will be like when it is over – but it is something to think about when considering getting involved with a friend. I have had to end a relationship with a friend - - if they are truly your friend, your friendship will last. 

Q: How do you manage it all when there are so many to-dos and only one you?
I am a list and post-it-notes person.  Everything in life has a priority – I try to recognize what needs to get done and when.  I see a lot of married friends with children and I wonder how they manage.  I know what I am capable of and if I do find myself in a bind and need some help, I reach out to friends.  Trips to Ikea usually end up in a phone call to a friend (both to help bring in a ridiculously large bookcase & to share some wine and attempt to put together that stupid bookcase).

Q: Any other tips or advice you care to share with our readers?
Always remember to take care of yourself.  In the end – you are the only person responsible for you.