( CareerBuilder.com ) -- If you 're cursing at work , be careful . While it 's commonplace to curse once in a while and may even help you build a bond with co-workers , there 's a fine line to when and how you curse . `` We are being judged constantly by our co-workers for how we do our work and how we interact with them , '' says etiquette expert Cynthia Lett . `` Cursing is an aggressive and hostile way of expressing oneself . '' Companies where employees are constantly in front of customers are especially harsh when it comes to foul language -- employees caught cursing can be in trouble . Not sure where you stand when it comes to cursing ? Here 's how foul language at work can impact your career : . Reveal an unprofessional attitude . In some professions cursing is accepted and can even help you fit in to an environment , perhaps in high-pressure jobs where everyone needs to let off some steam . Constantly using foul language , however , can make it difficult to fit into a professional environment , says Jennifer Kahnweiler , author of `` The Introverted Leader : Building on Your Quiet Strength . '' `` Perceptions are important in shaping your career -- you do n't want to be seen as that foul-mouthed person , '' she says . Be especially careful about your language when surrounded by several co-workers at once -- such as during meetings or when working in teams . Prevent real communication . Using curse words over and over again can prevent you from truly communicating what you 're trying to say . Instead of cursing , take the time to figure out how to let your co-workers understand what you 're really thinking . Even if you 're angry or upset , take time to develop a professional communication strategy . `` Cursing is an aggressive and hostile way of expressing one 's self , '' Lett says . Furthermore it can create a distance between you and the others in your department because it makes others uncomfortable . `` When people are uncomfortable around someone they avoid them whenever possible , '' she explains . Hamper your image . Similar to a disheveled appearance or tardiness , foul language can impact the way you 're perceived by others in the workplace . Even if you do great work , cursing can have an impact on your ability to get promoted or get better job responsibilities . `` You need to be aware of how you present yourself to your co-workers , superiors and clients , '' says Suzanne Lucas , a writer and human resources expert . `` Swearing when books get dropped on your toes or the copier dies on you is one thing , peppering your daily conversation with expletives is another . '' Repercussions from human resources . Just because no one in your department comments on your use of foul language , does n't mean it 's going unnoticed . In some instances it can be reported to human resources with an official warning . Sometimes it can even get you fired . `` Someone who works customer facing [ roles ] -- such as retail or sales or call centers -- would be fired for swearing , as it 's not appropriate with a customer , '' Lucas says . Of course not everyone gets fired . And as you evaluate your behavior , cursing once in a while is no cause for alarm . `` We all get angry and frustrated and using a curse word can be the best release available , '' says Kahnweiler . `` Just be aware that this language should n't become your M.O . or you could be seen as lacking self control . '' & copy CareerBuilder.com 2011 . All rights reserved . The information contained in this article may not be published , broadcast or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority .
Swearing can affect the way you 're perceived by others in the workplace . Just because no one comments on your use of foul language , does n't mean it 's going unnoticed . Be careful , cursing can get you killed .