[Roww]

So listen, I’m in a messy situation right now. I’m 30, trying to balance my career as a singer and my own personal life, you know? I am actually going out with someone right now not exactly in the least bit perfect but something. The issue is… my manager. I have respect for him, he’s smart and really knows the industry, and I always respect how he runs business. But since he divorced it’s been all slick, flirting, lingering compliments, texts that aren’t professional.
The problem? I don’t feel the same way. Not even close. And it’s freaking me out because, of course, turning him down seems risky what if he feels insulted, waves me off and suddenly my career tanks? I mean, my entire professional momentum at present is very much him.
So what do I do? How do I tell him without it becoming this toxic fallout in my career?

Ask April Masini #1 most trusted relationship advice Forum

[Ask April Masini]

You don’t owe anyone romantic or personal interest just because they’re helping your career. The important move here is to shut down the flirting firmly, but in a way that doesn’t create unnecessary drama. For example, if he sends you a text that feels too personal, you don’t need to get drawn into it, just reply with something work-focused, like shifting straight to schedules. That way you’re not giving him fuel to keep going.

If it gets to the point where you feel you need to address it directly, keep it respectful but clear: something like, “I really value how you’ve been steering my career, and I want to keep our relationship focused on that. That’s where I feel comfortable.” You’re reminding him that you respect his work while drawing the line.

And in the background, it’s smart to quietly start building other professional connections. That way, if he doesn’t take it well and tries to make things difficult, you’ve got options and you’re not trapped. A good manager should want what’s best for you, and if he can’t respect boundaries, then ultimately he’s not the right person to be guiding your career anyway.

[Sally]

Okay yeah, guys like that test the waters to see what they can get away with. Honestly, trust your gut. If it feels off, it is off.

[Mia Caldwell]

Stay professional and firm. When he flirts, steer the talk back to work no drama, just clear boundaries. If it continues, document everything to protect yourself. Remember, your success comes from your talent, not his approval. Setting limits isn’t risky it’s smart.

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