Telling a colleague that he smells bad is a delicate matter. Talk privately with him and help him solve the problem. Be sensitive but direct when addressing the issue. If you are in a management position, let them know that they have to act somehow (unless they have a health problem, of course).
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Talk about the Problem
Step 1. Put yourself in his shoes
To put aside any hesitation (if you have any) about such a sensitive subject, put yourself in his shoes. Think that if you have a body odor problem affecting your colleagues, you would like to know. By imagining that you are in his place, you will have the right spirit to carry on this conversation.
Step 2. Talk to him privately
To avoid embarrassing him more than necessary, find a quiet place to start the discussion. If you are an executive, you can invite him to your office. If you are just a colleague, take it aside in the staff room or in a room away from prying eyes.
To have a face-to-face conversation with him, ask him, "Can I talk to you?" or "Do you have a moment to dedicate to me?"
Step 3. Start the conversation on a positive note
This way, you will ease the blow and let him know that you are well disposed towards him. Give him a sincere compliment. For example, if he's not a good employee, don't let him know otherwise. Find something else to praise.
Try telling him, "You are a hard worker and a valued member of this team."
Step 4. Prepare him to receive the news
Before we get to the heart of the matter, keep in mind that the conversation will be a little tricky, but still necessary. By preparing your interlocutor, you will show him that you are on his side and that you understand his position.
For example, start by saying, "It's a little embarrassing and I hope I don't get offended, but…"
Step 5. Try to be as honest and direct as possible
If you make vague comments about personal hygiene, he may think you're asking him to brush his teeth to fix his bad breath. To avoid any misunderstanding, be polite, but speak clearly.
- For example, you might say, "There seems to be an unpleasant smell in the place where you work lately."
- Never tell him that someone else informed you, or you risk increasing his embarrassment.
Step 6. Ask him if he is aware of this
After putting the matter in polite but explicit terms, try to figure out if he is aware of his problem. If he admits that a health problem is causing the odor, thank him for his honesty.
For example, ask him, "Is this a problem you are aware of?" or "Has anyone ever told you this before?". If he says it's due to a medical condition, you might add, "I'm sorry I talked about it. Thanks for your point. I won't bring this up again."
Part 2 of 3: Handling the Problem
Step 1. Suggest possible causes and possible solutions
When a co-worker gives off an unpleasant smell, they usually don't know. However, if they do, they probably can't solve the problem. Offer him helpful considerations about the possible cause and suggestions on how to deal with it.
For example, you might say, "Maybe you just need to wash your clothes more often. Or maybe you could try showering more often."
Step 2. Report the problem to your boss
If, after discussing with him, he does not take reasonable and appropriate steps to take care of his personal hygiene, you can only communicate the problem to your supervisor. With any luck, he will be more successful than you at fixing it.
Step 3. Put pressure on it if necessary
If you are in a managerial position and the employee who smells bad is reluctant to accept the facts or disagrees with you, be firm and steadfast. Point out that employees who don't care about their hygiene are not even successful in the professional field and that if they can't get rid of this problem, they risk ruining relationships with their colleagues.
For example, you might say, "We have a company policy that requires all employees to have a certain dignity at work."
Part 3 of 3: Mitigate the Bad Smell
Step 1. Change seat
If you can, look for another desk or desk. If you can't, at least find a way to spend less time in contact with this colleague. For example, volunteer to take on a different job that allows you to work in another environment.
Step 2. Cover the bad smell using candles or deodorants
Scented candles are a great way to hide unpleasant odors. You can also try an electric air freshener that sprays the scent automatically or at regular intervals. Alternatively, use an air freshener spray.
Step 3. Turn on a fan
By pointing it in your direction, you will promote air circulation and reduce the unpleasant odor coming from your colleague's station. This way, you will have some relief.
