Readers respond to “crack at work” column

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Last week, I hit a nerve when I wrote about America’s crack at work problem. Here is just a sample of the flood of mail from readers.

“I, too, have seen more than my share of cracks, cleavage, navels, thongs and overhangs.  We have a definitive dress code, but some just ignore it.  We have had several employees quit after my handing them a tee shirt three sizes too large, so I resort to humor when I can.  I keep a can of spackling on my desk, but only the brands that advertise as ‘crack filler’ in large letters on the can.  I hand it to the culprit and tell them they have a choice -- tee shirt or spackling?”

“I agree with everything you listed in your recent article, The American Workplace has a ‘Crack’ Problem.   I'd add the following things to your list:  hair that is not a "natural" color [I assume this refers to pink or blue], stretch pants, wrinkled clothes.”

“I agree with all that you said in this article.   I am so glad this is being addressed.  As the style celebrity Tim Gunn says, "It's the slovification of America".  America has gotten lazy in its dress and appearance.

Our office has a ‘business casual’ dress code from Monday-Thursday, which to some people means a colored t-shirt with khaki pants or too-tight shirts and too-tight skirts and high heels.  It ranges from slovenly to hoochie-mama!

Friday is typically ‘jeans’ day and this also has to be kept in line from time to time.  Summer always brings out the flip-flops and short shorts. (I personally think that flip-flops should be banned at work, I see no place for them whatsoever). I don't care to see other people’s toes.  A casual appearance creates a casual approach to work; not very productive.”

“I think people need to stop taking their office attire tips from their favorite TV show.   It’s never o.k. to wear see-through shirts, low clinging pants or plunging tops.  If you can see any of your under-garments when you sit or bend, change.   It’s funny – on so many of the shows you see women coming home from a ‘hard day at the office’ with half their shirt unbuttoned, skin tight skirts, and 4 inch stiletto heels.   It’s TV people – not real life.  It’s supposed to be entertainment not your weekly style tip.”

“This column hit home, as we have to address this topic every spring. I wholeheartedly agree with all of your statements!  One of my pet peeves is white pants, no lining, with the thong or boy shorts shining through. They obviously don’t do a rear check before leaving the house – or worse….maybe they do!”

“One thing not mentioned is the overuse of cologne, perfume, and body sprays. After some co-workers leave my office, ‘the memory lingers on,’ and not in a pleasant sense! I also abhor people reeking of cigarette smoke - I know workplaces are smoke-free, but those who sneak out of the building to grab a smoke before a meeting really fries my cheese!”

“I liked the "Frump Factor" comments - although, it might be tempered a bit by realizing that some folks just do not make enough money to afford stylish, up-to-date clothing and accessories. Most people would let their hair get a little outgrown rather than not fill their gas tank or feed their kids. Some women in our organization are the sole support to their families, and are just too tired and overworked to care much about how stylish their glasses are! But, I agree, it's nice to look "current" if you can afford to in today's ghastly economic climate.”

“This is in regards to the article about dressing professionally in the workplace.  The HR managers are right on the money.  Today’s young people believe sexy is in, professionalism is out. Unfortunately, the youth today, especially girls, are taught at a very young age that sexy is the way to get a head in life.  But it’s not.  Dressing in a provocative manner only destroys any chances of moving up the ladder and any opportunity for advancement.

Of course, they all give the same excuses:  it’s impossible to find non-provocative clothes; this is today’s style; and my fave, it’s racist to demand me to dress differently.  But if one looks hard enough, one will find professional style clothes that are fashionable without showing the cleavage or other cracks.

Ask yourself, is this what Paris Hilton would wear?  If yes, then don’t wear it! Don’t think that it’s ok to look like you came from your High School class or college class. Showing off the thong, the bra, the cleavage and behind cracks isn’t going to cut it.  But looking like a business man/woman will.”

Confronting poor performance, or difficult behaviors, is difficult.  Joan Lloyd’s How to Coach & Give Feedback learning system is a step-by-step approach to giving feedback to your employees, your coworkers, or even your boss.  Actually reduces defensiveness and encourages open communication.  Now available in CD!