How To Handle Gossip About a Coworker - TheJobNetwork

How To Handle Gossip About a Coworker - TheJobNetworkGossip happens. And there is always someone in every office who just cant help but spread it. And of course, it can be fun. But it can be equally hurtfuland can damage careersnot just the persons being gossiped about. googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) How to take the high road? Here are a few useful strategies to keep your head above the fray.1. Set the tone.You need to be the grownupespecially if youre a manager or supervisor and will be setting an example for your underlings. But really anyone can do this. If people start speculating wildly about company issuesor worsegossiping about coworkers, bosses, and peers, you can be the first one to remove yourself and take a step back. This might just show them, by example, the error of their wayswithout your having to say anything outright. Dont let yourself be drawn in. If you cant leave a conversation, try a subtle change of topic.2. Be ope n to negativity.People are mora likely to gossip about you if you dont seem open to hearing their concerns or workplace issues (in the case of being a supervisor) or if you dont seem open to constructive criticism yourself. Be as transparent as possible when youre in a position of power. And no matter what your job title, keep the lines of communication open.3. Dont punish the middleman.If youre a supervisor and one employee steps forward to address an issue or bring a problem to your attention, dont punish that person for doing so. That persons coworkers will likely see this as a sign of your being unapproachable and unfair. Cue gossip.4. Confront the source.Sometimes it becomes necessary to confront the gossiper, even if the gossip is about you. fruchtwein gossipers continue their chattering because they believe there are no negative consequences. But if you let them know youre on to what theyre up toand let them know your feelings on the matterchances are they might stop on their own. If you have to chastise them for their behavior, make your criticism about the issue, not them personally. Dont just say you gossiped that is wrong Try instead Im concerned about the gossip and Im hoping we can put an end to it. 5. Dont be self-righteous.Its all well and good to go high. Its what you should be doing. But if you start to get really pompous or pious about your own good conduct in the face of rife and rampant gossip, youre not going to make many allies. Stay casual when dealing with gossip, even when trying to be a good example. Its not all about you, after all