Couldn’t blame a CEO for unleashing a few well-turned expletives in these vexing economic times. But a recent survey says workplace swearing is a no-no.
Eight of 10 small business owners polled said “even innocent” cussing could have adverse affects on the workplace, according to SurePayroll, the online payroll service that conducted the research.
Only 11% said swearing could be a morale booster.
Interestingly, a British study recently came to the opposite conclusion. A recent article in the Leadership and Organizational Development Journal indicates that “there is a need for leaders to apply, under certain circumstances, a permissive leadership culture” — one that allows employees to blow off steam through the use of, uh, colorful language.
What do you think? Let us know.
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Tags: employee behavior, morale, SurePayroll, swearing
June 9th, 2009 at 5:12 pm
So-called “colorful language” indicates a woefully limited vocabulary and a shameful lack of self-control. As President of my firm, I think our employees respect the fact that I will not abuse them directly or indirectly with invective and that we do not tolerate that kind of language and behavior from either customers or vendors. “Going ballistic” is for amateurs; maintaining control and showing self-restraint is how professionals conduct themselves.
August 13th, 2009 at 2:48 pm
I agree with John. If I hear someone swearing, I figure that he doesn’t know a lot of words. The increase of profanity on TV, even network stations, saddens me.