Nicknames in the Workplace: “Hey Honey”

While referring to someone as “sweetheart or “sugar” may appear innocent on the surface, this overly familiar verbiage can lead to misunderstanding, claims of favoritism, or even accusations of inappropriate professional behavior. All of these factors have the potential to negatively impact relationships in the workplace.
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Lack of Respect. Intentional or unintentional, using a term of endearment can convey a lack of respect, especially if a superior is using the term with a subordinate. A supervisor who says to an employee, “Honey, would you hand me those files?” verbally puts that employee in a subservient position through the choice of words. This can negatively impact the relationship between the employee and supervisor if the employee feels treated in a derogatory manner. 

​Condensation. Terms of endearment run the risk of sounding condescending, particularly when used in a tone one might use when speaking with a child. For example, “Oh sweetie, this report shows you really don't know what you’re doing, do you?” Not only is the comment condescending, but the use of the term of endearment can potentially take it to an embarrassing level. Also beware of terms like, “son,” or “granny” or any other word that has age-based connotations. Both of these actions can cause relationship-destroying resentment.

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