Hey, Boss, You've Got Something in Your Teeth

published 18 December 2009

It's never pleasant to alert a colleague that his fly is open — particularly when the crotch in question belongs to your supervisor. Yet half of the nearly 4500 respondents to a recent survey by CareerBuilder.com said they would, in fact, tip off a higher-up if his zipper was undone; 49 percent said they'd let him know if he had remnants of lunch stuck in his teeth; and more than a third conceded they'd even point out a stain on his shirt. "The workplace is getting a little more casual these days, and people are willing to be more candid," says Allison Nawoj, a CareerBuilder spokeswoman.

The survey also found that men are generally more forthcoming than women about their colleagues' embarrassing gaffes. Case in point: Nearly a third of the men polled said they'd tell an underling she needed a breath mint, while only 25 percent of women said they'd do the same. What of the disheveled assistant with the funky stench? A third of men, versus just 23 percent of women, said they'd actually notify him that he needed a shower. Ladies, the next time you're hesitant about telling the boss that her mascara is running, just remember — that could be you delivering a presentation with raccoon eyes.

Dedicated to women of power, purpose, and style, Marie Claire is committed to celebrating the richness and scope of women's lives. Reaching millions of women every month, Marie Claire is an internationally recognized destination for celebrity news, fashion trends, beauty recommendations, and renowned investigative packages.

Stay In The Know