How to Deal With Coworkers Who Curse

Different businesses expect a different level of communication. A law firm might require a high-level discourse, with very little informal communication. However, a construction site might reveal a completely different communication dynamic. If your co-workers use foul language more than might otherwise be expected in your business environment, you do have some recourse to encourage them to reduce the frequency of such language.

Instructions

1. Watch for support. See if you notice other people who seem to feel the same way you do about the language. Curtailing negative behavior is easier if you have a group consensus.

2. Discuss the matter with the offending co-worker. If you have a supportive group, then do it together. Otherwise, do it one-on-one. Let the employee know that the cursing bothers you and you would prefer that he tone it down in your presence.

3. Speak with the boss if things do not improve. Let her know that you feel this language paints your department in a bad light and will eventually hurt your team's image.

References

• CNN Money: Damn! Co-workers Who Curse Too Much; Anne Fisher
• Business Management Daily: Should You Tolerate Foul-Mouthed Co-Workers?