When co-worker smells, use a tactful sensibility

By Rozanne R. Worrell Workplace Woes – Roze Knows

Are you aware of any polite, but effective, way of addressing co-workers who wear too much heavy fragrance? I don’t want to be labeled a whiner, but some folks seem to have a cloud of scent enveloping them and it doesn’t wear off! I’ve tried all kinds of avoidance tactics and allergy medications, but I literally get sick after prolonged exposure or closed-door meetings with some of them. I’ve mentioned my sensitivity, but it hasn’t convinced them to lighten up on the scent. I’m not the only one who is bothered, but I’m affected the most. – Suffering in Chesapeake

I can empathize with you. It is a tough issue to address with anyone, not just co-workers. I recommend that the people who are close to these overly fragranced employees be the individuals who have one-on-ones with them even if they are not affected by the strong scents. It is so important that they approach the situation with utmost sensitivity and respect. They should treat these co-workers the way they would want to be treated. The goal is to have the individuals use a lot less, a different or no fragrance without being embarrassed. If the situation does not improve, request assistance from your supervisor. Explain that the fragrances are affecting your physical health and your efforts to remedy the matter before going to him/her.

Re-climbing the ladder Until recently, I was the “go-to-girl” in my office. Starting with our big boss, everyone came to me when they needed something done in a pinch or when they needed to know a policy or procedure. I’ve always been highly thought of for my work and work ethic. We got a new boss and my status has changed. He relies on someone else, and I’m a nobody. To go from being highly thought of to not being thought of at all is a real morale crusher. What do I do? – Feeling like a nobodyin Norfolk

I understand your disappointment but it is important that you maintain your professionalism and continue to do the same quality of work. I can guarantee you that office politics will always change, but only you have the ultimate control over your performance and self-satisfaction in knowing you are doing your best. Hang in there!

Work on your bad relationship My assistant is supposed to process my expense reports. She sits on them so that I get “nasty grams” from our comptroller when they’re late. These ugly e-mails tell me to take care of them, and if I don’t know how, to contact our information technology guy for instructions. I have no intention of contacting the IT guy. That’s not my job. The comptroller knows my assistant is responsible for these reports, but they’re good friends, so she knows my assistant and I have a hate-hate relationship. I’ve never responded to the comptroller’s e-mails. After this last one, I told my assistant my expense report better not be late again. She wouldn’t look at me or say anything. I’ve had enough but I’m stuck with her. What do I do if she does it again? – Do your job

Obviously, there is a history between you and your assistant that I have no knowledge of. Regardless, because you are the boss, set a professional example. Do not stoop to the level of your assistant. Instead, make an effort to improve the relationship. Before having a one-on-one with her, be introspective, recognize and take responsibility for your part in the current situation. Then, during the face-to-face, tell her you want to work on the relationship, acknowledge your contribution to the problem and apologize. Because it is not so common for individuals to admit their faults and apologize, such behavior can go a long way towards improving things.

Rozanne R. Worrell is a workplace consultant and columnist. She is not an attorney, and her answers should not be considered legal advice. To find out more, go to www.rozeknows.com.

Have a question: Contact Rozanne R. Worrell at www.rozeknows.com or at Workplace Woes – Roze Knows, P.O. Box 99134, Norfolk, VA 23509-9134.