Work ethics

Work ethics

This must be what it is like to work for Gordon Ramsay. Honestly, my line manager can't seem to get through the working day without effing and blinding. And because she swears, almost everyone else does too. I think those words are only to be used during moments of extreme provocation - not whenever the sandwich van is late! Am I hopelessly behind the times or is it acceptable, even these days, to ask your colleagues to mind their language?

The worker's view

Euan Cameron, trade union branch secretary

There are some work environments where the bad-language count is likely to be high. I would expect to hear a lot of swearing on the factory floor, on a building site or in a transport depot, for instance. In an office, however, it should be expected that people will conduct themselves in a businesslike manner and certainly no one should have to put up with language or behaviour they find offensive, particularly from management.

It may be that your manager is simply trying to be one of the gang, but it could also be a method of control. Whatever the reason, I think you need to speak up. I would suggest raising it as a general issue at a meeting rather than making it personal. Hopefully your colleagues will realise it upsets you and stop. If this doesn't work, your best alternative would be to take out a formal complaint as you have protection in law from harassment.

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Rachel Holland is the founder of Rachel Holland Associates (01722 324953) rha-manners.co.uk

Absolutely you can. You should ask your colleagues to watch their language. I have a zero-tolerance policy on swearing in the workplace. There is no room for foul language, whatever job you do, whether you are the director of a company or a manual labourer. Swearing betrays a poor vocabulary and shows that you are unable to express yourself clearly and accurately. And if you swear at someone - well that's just a form of bullying. Some swear words are considered less strong than others, but I would avoid them all.

This is a question of restraint. If it is in your manner to swear, you should stop. And if you don't join in with the bad language, your stance will be noted and respected. Swearing can only create a negative impression. If you resist, and take the moral high ground in that way, people will want to work with you. And from there you can begin to change the tone of the office.