Dear Ms. Corporate Manners,
My co-worker doesn’t cover his mouth when he sneezes. We all sit in cubicles so we are close together. When this particular employee sneezes, he just turns around in his chair and sneezes in the open with no attempt at all to cover his mouth. I think this is disgusting and very unsanitary. Do you have a suggestion on how this can be handled? I know others have asked him to stop, but he continues. Thanks in advance for your advice.
Signed,
Holding My Breath
Dear Holding,
Sometimes a cough or sneeze happens quickly, and people don’t have time to react. The next time your co-worker sneezes, quickly put your own hands over your face and turn away to avoid his germs. You may want to remind him in a gentle way that it’s his responsibility to cover his mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief so his germs don’t spread to other people. In a pinch, the crook of his elbow will do the trick. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to him, why don’t you place this column in his cubicle as a gentle hint?
Signed,
Ms. Corporate Manners
© Penny Aviotti and Ms.Corporate Manners 2003 – 2013.
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