Dealing with Difficult People with Body Odor

by Laura Benjamin, Colorado Communication Coach and Career Coach

Q.   Hi Laura, I have had issues with employees in the past on personal hygiene - i.e.  body odor, poor personal hygiene.   I have counselled them with no success -  one said she was allergic to deoderant; another, a male - just ignored what was said.   Can you dismiss for these issues?   L.Z.

A. Dear L.Z.,

Regarding the body odor thing...there are two issues at hand.  One: folks have certain responsibilities to the functions of the job.  This is the list of essential duties and tasks, etc.  Then there is the "plays well with others" category which encompasses things like teamwork, positive relationships, professionalism, etc.  If they are doing something, or saying something that is offensive to others and falls into the category of "unprofessional", then I'd say you most definitely can address it with them as you have done.  If they do not correct the behavior, then start documenting and make sure you consult with your HR dept on this. 

It would be no different than if either one of them said something that was inappropriate or offensive.  Similarly, they would be expected to dress appropriately for the workplace.  Hygiene falls well within those parameters in terms of professional dress and conduct.  I'd document that you had the original conversation, document their responses to the conversation, and then any subsequent incidents that follow.  Certainly, use the CARLA Concept to structure another conversation, which will help you stay focused on the issues.  Make sure they know it is their responsibility to take corrective action and they need to clearly communicate to you how they are going to do that.  The person who says he is allergic to deoderant must be able to eliminate the odor....whatever it takes to do that.  Again check with HR on how far you can take this and the policy your organization follows for termination. 

Please keep me posted on how this works out for you!  And thank you for writing!
Laura

Dear Laura,

Thank you for your prompt reply.  I have no problem if you use my initials to post this on your website.  The male was terminated - but not for the issue I brought up. Body odor is so offensive to people and yet it is such a sensitive issue. I liked your comment that it is their problem to ensure they eliminate/correct it. I have never had other employees complain about this woman and don't know if they aren't because they don't want to offend her. I will follow up on your suggestions. Thanks for attaching the CARLA concept.  L.Z.

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Laura Benjamin is a Colorado Communication, Career and Marketing Coach, professional speaker, strategic planning facilitator and writer. She is also the Author of The C.A.R.L.A. Concept™: How to Raise an Issue, Prove Your Point and Communicate with Confidence & Clarity. To interview Laura or access her free educational and entertaining audio podcasts, blog posts and articles, please visit www.LauraBenjamin.com.