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- One of the options for handling an inappropriate comment is to invite the person who made the remark to have a private conversation with you. While you can also discuss the comment directly after they make it, waiting to have a private conversation gives you time to think about what you want to say.
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Jun 7, 2017 · When a colleague makes an inappropriate comment, it can be risky to speak up — and risky not to. Not addressing a sexist or racist comment may give the person permission to do it again. If...
- Overview
- What are inappropriate comments in the workplace?
- How to respond to inappropriate comments
Part of being in a collaborative workplace is interacting with others and contributing to a positive and productive environment. Sometimes, people make statements during workplace conversations that aren't suitable for professional situations for a variety of reasons. Learning how to identify and address inappropriate comments can help you ensure t...
Inappropriate comments in the workplace are verbal or written remarks that make others feel uncomfortable or hurt. Standards on what is appropriate for the workplace can vary depending on your workplace culture, but there are some types of comments that most people consider inappropriate. While you may discuss some sensitive topics respectfully and provide constructive criticism to others, bullying and insulting others or making discriminatory remarks is not acceptable workplace behavior. It's also important to maintain an accepting environment and avoid making generalizations about groups based on gender, sexuality, religion, political affiliation or race.Related: How To Identify and Deal With a Hostile Work Environment
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1. Process your emotions
Whether someone made a rude or discriminatory comment directly to you or you overheard a conversation in the workplace, you may experience emotions about having to deal with an inappropriate comment at work. Work through your feelings about the situation first before addressing the issue to ensure that you approach the decision in the most productive way possible. This can involve stepping out of a room or taking a deep breath and thinking for a moment.
2. Determine the severity of the issue
Assess how much of a problem the inappropriate comment poses in the workplace to decide what type of action to take. Some comments may require a simple personal conversation, while others necessitate serious disciplinary action from management.If a coworker jokingly insults you but you think they had good intentions, consider asking them about the comment in the moment or having a private conversation to explain why their phrasing was inappropriate. If you hear a colleague making discriminatory remarks and being purposefully offensive on a regular basis, reporting them to a superior is important for keeping the workplace safe for everyone.Related: How To File a Complaint With Your Human Resources Department
3. Consider your position
Think about your role in the workplace and your level of responsibility for addressing inappropriate comments. If you're a manager, you have a duty to set an example for others, model ethical company values and address inappropriate behavior on your team. If you have an entry-level role, you may want to seek the support of a supervisor or human resources associate to approach a higher-level employee about their inappropriate comments.
- Simone Marie
- Pause to regroup. When someone says something hurtful, consider taking several seconds — or longer — to breathe, feel your feelings, and consider your response.
- Detach. “If the question or comment is intentionally antagonistic or disrespectful, don’t take the bait — disengage,” says counselor Shemiah Derrick, author of “The Words Between Us: A 30-Day Journal for Couples to Get Closer and Communicate with Love.”
- Advocate for yourself. Advocating for yourself can be a powerful way for you to feel validated and give the relationship a chance to heal from the exchange — if you think the relationship is worth preserving.
- State your boundary. “People understand boundaries best when they are clear,” says Cassidy. “Think of a fence. It’s a clear line that shows where your neighbor’s property ends and where your property begins.
Sep 13, 2023 · In the grand story of human connection, these 20 responses to inappropriate comments are our trusty tools. They're not just words; they're shields of respect and bridges to understanding.Let's remember that our responses can shape how we interact with the world.
If a person makes an inappropriate remark during a professional discussion, you can begin by diverting the topic. It lets you remain on task and allows you to approach the person later to have a genuine dialogue about the comment if appropriate and refocus this discussion.
Aug 30, 2023 · Employers should take a zero-tolerance approach to all types of bullying and discrimination. Businesses will have different policies in place to deal with such matters. If any work-related comment is found to breach such a policy, then it can lead to disciplinary action.
Jun 15, 2024 · One approach to educating someone about their inappropriate comment is by politely pointing out the inappropriateness of their words. Instead of getting defensive or angry, calmly express your concern by explaining why their comment is offensive, inappropriate, or hurtful to others.
