Office gossip is one of the most powerful and potentially destructive forces in the workplace. Do your part to reduce the harmful effects of hearsay by refusing to contribute to the rumor mill. When others gossip:
o Respond in a skeptical manner with statements such as, “I’d have to see that to believe it” or “Someone must be pulling your leg.”
o Gently remind rumormongers of others’ feelings – it may cause them to think twice about what they’re saying. For instance, you can say, “I would certainly hate for someone to be saying that sort of thing about me” in a manner that conveys genuine concern for the subject of gossip rather than a judgmental attitude toward the news bearer.
o Use strong language to deter persistent gossipers. Try saying, “I would rather have Jane tell me such personal details herself if she wanted me to know them.”
o Try not to sound preachy or morally-superior, or you’ll make enemies. But do remind others that gossip can hurt or destroy lives and careers – so it’s not an innocent pastime.
Source: The New York Public Library Business Desk Reference. Published by John Wiley & Sons, 800-225-5945.
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