2006-09-20 05:30:19 · 23 answers · asked by Aaron S 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I think it's understandable if she has to communicate with clients/other managers on your level but you have to go about this request in a very delicate way. And I would make sure there is a witness to your discussion with her.
If there's an HR office for your employer, speak with them first. HR offices can be a great resource for dealing with sticky situations such as this.
If her saying "aks" is only a pet peeve of yours and it's not hindering her performance or yours, then let it be. But if she has to interact with clients and you seriously think it's causing problems, than it's OK. But I wouldn't do it if it's something that is simply getting on your nerves.
When you request it, be sure to focus on some good things she does (perhaps she has a nice speaking voice) and avoid any references to race.
2006-09-20 06:15:16 · answer #1 · answered by stimply 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely not! In any professional setting, you have an image you want presented. If an employee dressed inappropriately, used foul language, was constantly late for work, took excessive breaks, etc., etc., wouldn't you ask them to change these behaviors? The people you hire represent the company and if someone is not behaving appropriately (or within the guidelines and policies of the company), then they need to be spoken to about the situation.
Suggestion: when you speak with your secretary about this, be prepared for her to go on the defensive. It is my understanding the word 'ax' is cultural and this is the way she was raised. It will take her time to make such a change. It would be best if you had someone else in the room with you (but try not to make her feel ganged up on). If your secretary is female, have another female in the room. Even better...have another black female in the room she could see as a mentor. This message coming from someone of a similar background is easier to handle.
Instead of just saying this needs to be done, you could offer to pay for a class to help her with proper enunciation. Approach it in a positive manner, such as this will help her excel in the corporate world, and you are less likely to get the defensive behavior.
Be sensitive to her feelings by treating her with respect and you will have less issues.
2006-09-20 06:03:59 · answer #2 · answered by Deuce_Salute 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What is your role? If it is YOUR secretary, it may be a little easier to request this. Be careful, however, in the manner that you request. Ax isn't necessarily just poor grammar, but an indication of certain cultural groups manner of speaking. I would bring it up in a manner that isn't offensive. If in doubt, talk to human resources about a tactful way to approach this topic......and if she talks this way, why did you hire her in the first place?
HOWEVER - if you are just a co-worker, and not her boss, I think you should mind your own business - you didn't hire her.
2006-09-20 09:13:24 · answer #3 · answered by Fortune Favors the Brave 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In any setting, a secretary represents the company she works for. Her grammar is a direct reflection of the level of professional conduct of the company. By all means, she must learn to speak with proper grammar and enunciation.
If she is YOUR secretary, al the more reason to bring her speaking manner up to par. YOU will be judged by the verbal fluencies of your secretary before people ever reach you.
Do not humiliate her in front of anyone else, but do address it.
2006-09-20 05:52:16 · answer #4 · answered by north79004487 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is not inappropriate at all. A company should maintain a professional appearance, and using slang of any form, such as "Can I ax whose calling" over "May I ask who is calling" shouldn't be tolerated. Just my opinion.
2006-09-20 05:41:30 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
no its not. your secretary should have some common sense and should know that saying "ax" is not very professional and it makes her look dumb. if your secretary cannot say the word correctly after you bring it up more than twice you should fire hire and hire someone who can speak English correctly.
2006-09-20 05:41:08 · answer #6 · answered by Sweet Pea 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
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2016-10-17 08:17:04 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
ASK is the proper way to say the word...and should be said that way all the time..Your secretary also represents you and if she speaks like an idiot then they will also think she works for one.
2006-09-20 05:39:54 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
It depends on who your clients are, and if she is in contact with them or not. If she is simply saying words in her certain accent, and that bugs you, try to be less annoyed. If you have an upscale professional office, and this person will be viewed or heard by clientele, why was she hired? OR, if you have a good rapport with this lady, she may consider any suggestions from you helpful- or not- you will have to gage it on your own.
2006-09-20 05:56:23 · answer #9 · answered by catarina 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think it is appropriate to have all employees use correct grammar and language. Just don't ask in an offensive manner. But I agree, saying "ax" is unprofessional.
2006-09-20 05:32:39 · answer #10 · answered by Leah 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋