Executive Coaching Articles
Gossip in the Workplace
- Review your company policy
if any exists, for the guidelines on ethics-related matters.
- Observe
Before launching yourself into office politics, observe. See how people relate and learn the unofficial roles certain individuals in your workplace have adopted. If you notice one person who consistently makes trouble, take the necessary actions to have as little interaction with that person as possible.
- Be busy
Gossipmongers want attention. If you're delving into your work, you can't be available to appreciate their latest tales.
- Don't participate
If there is gossip at your place of work, let it stop with you. If someone passes a "juicy story" on to you, don't pass it any further. Take personal responsibility to act with integrity.
- Turn it around
by saying something positive. It isn't nearly as much fun to spread negative news if it's spoiled by a complimentary phrase about the person being attacked.
- Keep your private life private
Don't trust personal information with coworkers. Remember, if they are gossiping about others, they will gossip about you, too. Don't give them ammunition.
- Choose your friends wisely at work
You spend a good deal of time at work so it's natural for friendships to develop. Share information sparingly until you are sure that you have built up a level of trust.
- Behave appropriately at work
Remember that work is not the place to share all types of information.
- Be direct
You know you are morally correct by not gossiping. So does the one spreading the gossip. If you confront that person and confidently tell him or her that such behavior is making it uncomfortable for you and other coworkers, it's likely to stop.
- Don't be afraid to go to a superior
Gossiping wastes a lot of company time and hurts morale. A company interested in a healthy work environment will value the opportunity to correct this type of situation.
Want more help and support in dealing with problem co-workers? Contact the Dream Job Coach and find out how he can help you to develop fulfilling relationships with your co-workers.
Copyright © 2005-2012 Joel Garfinkle, All Rights Reserved.
JOEL GARFINKLE is recognized as one of the top 50 coaches in the U.S., and the author of 7 books, including Getting Ahead: Three Steps to Take Your Career to the Next Level. He has worked with many of the world’s leading companies, including Google, Deloitte, Amazon, Ritz-Carlton, Gap, Cisco, Oracle, and many more. Visit Joel online at Garfinkle Executive Coaching. Subscribe to his Fulfillment@Work Newsletter and receive the FREE e-book, 40 Proven Strategies to Get Promoted Now!”
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