Tactful Request

• Consider having a tactful and gentle discussion about the cologne. Explain that the aroma makes it difficult for you to breathe or that it causes some unpleasant physical reactions. Some coworkers simply don't realize how much their scent affects those around them. Addressing the person directly and privately can make her aware of the situation without subjecting her to the embarrassment of taking the subject up with other people in the office.
  
  

Bring a Partner

• If you are not the only one in the office affected by the perfume, consider taking a second person along to talk to the coworker. Do so in a private forum with as little fanfare as possible. A courteous request will get you a better response than a confrontational one. Praise what your coworker does well and how much you appreciate her before dealing with the issue of her perfume. End the conversation with words of appreciation and thanks.
  
  

Anonymous Note

• While an anonymous note may appear less direct than a tactful request, it is a more comfortable choice for those who don't like confrontation. Write a respectful note detailing your problems with her perfume, and seal it in an envelope with the name of your coworker. If you are concerned that she may recognize your handwriting, type the letter at home, and bring it to work so no one sees it on the office printer or views it on your computer.
  
  

Office Policy

• A private discussion with your office manager or human resources representative can result in a new office policy regarding personal use of scents. The policy may request that all office personnel use care and a light touch when using perfume and cologne. Alternately, the office manager can have a careful discussion with those who don't tone down their perfume or cologne use after the new policy becomes official.
  
  

Office Petition

• As a last resort, circulate an office petition to get your coworker to tone down the amount of perfume she wears. This will likely hurt her feelings and stir up issues in the office, so it should not be your first recourse. However, if all other measures fail and your boss doesn't issue an office policy about perfumes and colognes, this method may be an option.