Six tips for limiting and managing workplace gossip Lead by example. A great way to contribute to a positive work environment and avoid workplace gossip is to lead by example. If you really want to establish yourself as someone who isn't interested in participating in office gossip or if you're faced with regular gossip, you'll need to be direct about it. Consider addressing the instigator privately to express your displeasure.
Approach your gossipy co-worker in a non-confrontational manner and politely but firmly ask him not to talk more about you or whoever is the target of his gossip. This may seem simple, and in a way it is. Being more transparent about labor issues is a good way to stop such gossip. People will always be curious to know who will get a raise, when to expect bonuses, or how the business is going.
However, if this information is readily available, there is no room for speculation. Being more transparent whenever possible, there isn't as much fuel to add to gossip. When you hear a negative speech, divert it by pointing to something positive you've noticed about the person they're gossiping about. We can send you job alerts, connect you with excellent recruiters in your industry and send you professional advice to help you deal with anything else that comes your way.
He explains: “According to the theory of evolution, humans have developed gossip to facilitate cooperation in a group. Listening to gossip about yourself in the workplace is not pleasant, please alert yourself to a perception that can spread and multiply if you don't take steps to reprimand it. Gossip is a distraction at work, but it can take a darker turn if it turns into harassment. No one who is doing their job to the best of their ability should have time to gossip in the workplace.
Schoenberger points out in his BBC Capital article: “When talking about office gossip about you, the best policy is to address the issue directly with the person responsible. Even if you don't contribute to the conversation, you're still guilty by association if you hear someone else's gossip. Once the team is together, discussing the negative consequences of gossip and explaining why it can be harmful is a good start to creating a better work environment. Of course, this tactic may not be a long-term strategy (especially if the person gossips a lot), but it allows you to leave the scene unscathed.
By being a good role model for others, you're saying that gossiping isn't something you're interested in participating in and that you won't tolerate it. To stop gossip, leaders must promote a culture that limits this behavior and work to improve team dynamics. However, when exchanges turn into negative gossip, an organization can quickly develop a toxic work environment. The effects of gossip on morale, the work environment and even on final results make this activity unwanted in the workplace.
