Telling a colleague they smell is hardest workplace conversation

Having to explain to a co-worker that they smell is the most difficult and awkward workplace scenario imaginable, according to new research.

The study, conducted by healthcare brand, Balance ActivTM and Cardiff University, found it is a much more awkward topic to raise than their clothing being inappropriate, tardiness or even someone's work being substandard.

And sweaty odours were found to be the most annoying smells in the office, ahead of smelly feet, strong smelling food and bad breath.

The research also found that 51% of employees have no idea how to tell someone they need to address the way they smell. Klaer Brooker, Group Head of HR Transformation at Computacenter, gave her advice on HR should handle such a delicate situation. She said: “Putting yourself in the individual’s shoes is the key for any feedback.  As managers, leaders and HR it’s our role to ensure we do this in the best way possible, treating such a situation with the privacy, empathy and discretion it needs.