Question

Quinn recounts a story about a time she was accused of misplacing some work files and how the
situation escalated into a serious situation. Olivia had been through a similar experience. In which of
the following ways should Olivia respond?
She should compare Quinn's story to her own in an email.
She should interrupt Quinn's narrative and tell her own "me too" story.
She should be careful not to draw attention away from Quinn's story to her own.
She should not share her own story with Quinn.

Answer 1

She should be careful not to draw attention away from Quinn's story to her own.

Brief reason: Quinn needs to be heard and validated first. Interrupting or immediately comparing shifts focus away from her experience; if Olivia later offers a brief, empathic "I understand" and only then, if appropriate and welcomed, shares her similar experience, that's better.