how would you tell a co-worker that she does not dress appropriate for work?

Question

40 year old co-worker is dressing like a teenager hooker, and we work with the elderly

Answer 1

I had to deal with a similar situation.

Normally, the proper thing to do is tell your supervisor - it is not your place to say anything.

But before you say anything....

I would take a close look at the situation......if this person is close to your supervisor (friends)....I wouldn't even attempt it.

Just let it go and wait for someone else to complain, because that might put you in a sour spot with your boss. (A.K.A. - they might look at you as the negative force in the department)

A co-worker and I agreed (a lot of people agreed) that this other girl was dressed way to inappropriately for the front desk of an executive office.....but she was friendly with the supervisors. Needless to say, another co-worker spoke up and pretty much got the crap treatment until they pretty much forced her to quit.

I would just let it go, as much as it bothers you.....losing respect in your department and/or your job over it really isn't worth it, is it?

Answer 2

How would I tell a co - worker...

I wouldn't, it's none of my damn business, it doesn't affect how i do my job and if the supervisors are not legally blind then I assume they would have said something by now if it was affecting how she does her job. Why does it matter what she wears? Why are you being so petty? I bet you are one of those girls who stands/stood in the halls at school and snickered and whispered about people when they walked by because you thought you were so much better than them...shame on you! I am also sure that this forum isn't the first place that you have discussed your "problem", your kind also goes behind the backs of others at work and contributes to the hostile work environment because you think you are one of the co-stars on "What Not To Wear"...

Answer 3

I have had the same problem with a fellow teacher at work. She teaches high school and wears low cut blouses and very short skirts. Some of the other teachers got together and spoke with the principal, simply addressing their concerns about the students. The principal spoke to her and things have gotten a little better since then.
My assumption is that your coworker knows what she is doing and enjoys the attention.

Answer 4

Just hint around about how she looks and she is not Barbie, either. Tell her the elderly prefer some one neutral looking and more maturely dressed. Offer her some suggestions on how to dress. Maybe she doesn't realize how ridiculous she looks.

Answer 5

Tell the supervisor, also if there is a dress code in your office that isn't being enforced, make a copy and anonymously drop it on her desk...maybe even highlight the important parts

Answer 6

When she walks by just say hubba hubba, and whistle, she may get the point. Then get a bunch of old men to give her the kissy face, and then I'm sure she will either put something on, or she wants to look like a
$!ut.

Answer 7

Did you ever think that maybe the elderly people like her attire? Seeing her slutty clothes might be the highlight of their day! I know my standards have gone down as I've gotten older!

Answer 8

I would say something to your supervisor about how inappropriate it is. If enough workers complain about it she should say something to her. In the meantime you might try a subtle snicker when you first see her each day.

Answer 9

It's up to your boss/supervisor to talk to her. If you say something to her, she can get you for harrassment. Surely they can see how your co worker dresses.

Answer 10

You should actually probably let your boss or immediate supervisor handle that situation. Tell them that you find it offensive & inappropriate and let them handle it from there. If she's that old & dressing so trashy she'd probably just keep on if you told her yourself anyway.. She probably thinks she looks hot dressed like that! :)