He is a friend, so I could confront him in confidence, but there is a possibility that it may be his natural smell and cannot be helped. Therefore, I am afraid to hurt him. Though we aren't certain, we believe it's more likely that he doesn't wash his clothes often enough. I've made several attempts at "hinting" at the problem by mentioning "the smell" in small groups where he was present, but he hasn't taken the hint.
2007-02-27 06:54:24 · 11 answers · asked by RP 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Take him to the side and in a jokingly-serious manner...say "man you smell kinda funny".
2007-02-27 07:55:50 · answer #1 · answered by Terrie 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Give him a gift of deoderant, shampoo, cologne, scented soaps, etc. Let him know in a kind, gently manner, that many people are "put off" by body odors. While he may have a different view of natural smells, he should take into consideration his co-workers noses. Let him know that the majority of people shower or bathe several times a week. If he is having problems with his water, offer to let him use your shower.
An easy way to do this, would be to start a conversation with several people, everyone knowing the subject beforehand, about personal hygiene. Have everyone make an offhanded comment about their feelings of body odor. Maybe he'll get the hint that way.
2007-02-27 15:12:47 · answer #2 · answered by Nepetarias 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would buy a basket and buy different types of travel sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, soap, laundry detergent, deoderant and so on and arrange them attractively. Buy a blank card and write in it that you are telling him politely that his odor is offensive and that he should probably get it checked out at the Dr.. Also explain, that you DID NOT share this info with anyone else and that you are doing this out of saving him embarassment later on. Put it in a place where no one but him will find it (car or house porch) and good luck! You don't even have to sign the card. Just put "Your Gardian Angel ;-)"
2007-02-27 15:10:09 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If he's a friend, don't give any more hints-just take him aside and tell him. Also, offer some suggestions and tell him you'll help him in that matter. That way, he will know you are sincere and not just criticizing him. It will save your friend from further embarrasment on the job and in his personal life. I know that if it were me, I would want a friend to tell me.
2007-02-27 15:03:48 · answer #4 · answered by abbacat 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tell HR. It could be that the guy can't use deodorant because of its aluminum-- it's bad for people with certain diseases, like kidney dysfunction. After all, you don't want him to die just to smell good, right?
There are natural products available that can help, aluminum free. I just don't think they work as well.
2007-02-27 16:17:03 · answer #5 · answered by shrinkydinkheart 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Simply say "just between us - your deodorant has let you down". He will get the hint, and see that you were polite about it. If he takes offense, so be it. But he should get the idea and probably will take steps to not stink.
2007-02-27 15:04:15 · answer #6 · answered by That's what she said 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with the guy who said to tell HR, or if you work at a small company, talk to your boss or supervisor. They can tell your co-worker and not mention your name. That way you can avoid any unconfortable moments in the future and keep your friendship. Good luck!
2007-02-27 15:05:28 · answer #7 · answered by Steph 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Give him a present - a deodorant and a bath salt. Maybe he'll get the hint.
2007-02-27 14:58:24 · answer #8 · answered by Ymmo the Heathen 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Maybe leaving a nice card explaining the issue very nicely but anonymously that way it doesn't have to get weird.
2007-02-27 15:11:11 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tell HR that there is an issue. They can handle it discreetly. If its affecting his coworkers, its the company's problem to solve, not yours.
2007-02-27 15:02:16 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋