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Rules, conventions and norms change with time. And finding modern norms to be tasteless or unacceptable epitomises getting older.
But how much room is there in business for swearing?
I recently returned from the European Software Conference, and at one point found myself talking to someone who had some interesting ideas. He struck me as intelligent, well-informed and articulate, and then he used the “f-word”. My estimation of him, his ideas and even his personality fell immediately.
Is this wrong? Is it possible that swearing is becoming the norm?
I spoke about this to two other people. One of them believed that a moderate level of swearing has become less offensive, and is nowadays used a means of emphasis. The other thought it unnecessary.
Five minutes of this person making a positive impression were instantly tainted by a two-syllable word. A word that served no real purpose other than highlighting their inability to express themselves.
Business is all about ideas and our ability to communicate them.
We wouldn’t consider swearing on our websites, so why would we do so in person?
But I am turning 40 next February. And modern “music” really is stretching the definition of the word.
So what the hell do I know?
Nice post. I agree to some extent that cursing can seem both inappropriate and unnecessary sometimes. However, if used in moderation, it can help emphasize certain things. There was a recent study that showed that occasional cursing in the workplace created for a more light atmosphere and helped people relax. I’ve been known to have a sailor’s vocabulary so my co-workers know that I don’t mean it in an aggressive or offensive way. I do admit it can be deemed a bit excessive by some, especially if they’re not used to it.
There has been debate among language experts as to whether curse words are used because the person cannot express him/herself or because it IS a legitimate expression of self.
As for using it in business? Maybe some new Internet-savvy businesses might be able to get away with it or succeed despite it. Maybe some might succeed BECAUSE of it, appealing to pre-teens and their desire to defy the wishes of their parents, but it seems like such a tiny niche with limited potential.
Also, I don\\\’t know where you heard it, but where I come from, the f-word is only one syllable. B-)
There are -ing variations too…