The great weight debate

By Brian Maynor

 

As hard as employers try to combat incivility and discrimination among coworkers, there is still one common cause that remains prevalent as well as legally and socially acceptable and that’s your weight.

If you are overweight, chances are you have experienced discrimination and incivility in your workplace. A new study from Katherine A. Sliter at Bowling Green State University has documented that overweight people experience higher levels of discrimination and rudeness than healthy-weight coworkers.

Unsure of what this discrimination and incivility look like? Here are a few common examples:

1.    Interrupting. Overweight people tend to be interrupted while speaking more often than other groups, and as you know this has the direct effect of dismissing, discounting and devaluing them and their contributions.

2.    Ignoring. How often do you return the greeting of attractive coworkers but ignore those of overweight ones? The new study says it happens more often than not that overweight people are often ignored when they say good morning by other coworkers.

3.    Refusing to help them around the office. Whether it’s refilling the copy paper or coffee machine if you are overweight chances are these tasks will be left for you to do, rather than being done for you.

4.    The cost. As a result of this attitude and behavior overweight employees often suffer from fatigue, burnout and withdrawal. Contributing to these costs are the common facts that overweight people are often passed over for promotions, paid less and disciplined more.

Whether it’s from legal protection or office policy most forms of discrimination and intolerance have been curbed, but adipose is still rife for ridicule and an unprotected target. Whether it’s intentional or not, be mindful of your actions toward overweight people and treat them the same way you treat everyone else. They deserve nothing less.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace. Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

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