Without saying a word, some employees can make coworkers uncomfortable simply by bringing items to work that would be more suitable for home:
• Decorative items that have sayings or symbols that demonstrate a
lack of respect for any gender, age group, race, or other segment
of the population
• Offensive or politically inflammatory posters
• Strong political statements that may antagonize coworkers
• Items that suggest drug or alcohol use, sexual innuendo, or other
behaviors that are not considered professional in the workplace
Although managers want workers to be comfortable and to have
some personal items in their spaces, some employees are inconsiderate and cross the line. The resulting discomfort or occasional conflict hurts productivity.
Managers must deal with overtly offensive or demeaning items, but
keep in mind that employees do have a right to free speech. Rules must be applied consistently to all employees across all political lines, faiths, and lifestyles. In other words, an employee from a mainstream religion cannot display religious symbols if an employee from a small, obscure religion cannot. A manager’s opinions and feelings cannot enter in as long as no one is being demeaned or distracted by the item. Objective handling of complaints is key.
Most of the interventions mentioned previously can be adapted to
handle these problem employees. In addition, try the following.
Interventions
• Put the shoe on the other foot by role playing. First, ask your
employee to role-play the situation with you. Ask the employee if he is aware that his bric-a-brac or posters make some people uncomfortable. Some employees will be astounded to know that nude plastic dolls or pictures displaying bathroom humor are not to everyone’s taste. If that doesn’t seem to get the job done, move on to Phase II: role playing. Ask the employee to play the role of someone who might be offended by the item. Note that I say “ask”
not “tell,” for this intervention must be voluntary for all concerned.
Taken From: 201 Ways to Turn Any Employee Into a STAR Performer
