HAPPINESS
PREVIEW SUMMARY:
A little gossip can infect even the healthiest, most functional groups of co-workers, straining relationships and challenging the success of the team. What can you do to prevent gossip from spreading in your workplace?
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The antidote to gossip is open and honest communication. Here are some strategies to try:
1. GIVE THEM THE LOWDOWN: A big change in a company can be a tripwire for explosive speculations if the change isn’t communicated clearly to employees. Because uncertainty creates a knowledge void, be sure to quickly fill the void with facts before suspicion becomes “fact.” The more quickly you spill the beans, even if it’s painful, the less likely people are to start panicking.
2. GET THE SCOOP FROM EMPLOYEES: Especially around a controversial move, ask for your employees’ input before, during and after the process. By asking questions early and often, you can signal to you employees that you value their feedback, quashing gossip before it arises.
3. ALWAYS WEAR WHITE: Gossip can ruin team cohesion as flagrantly as slinging mud on a white suit. To “wear white” means to be mindful of mudslinging — and the more you know someone, the less likely you are to malign them. So encourage employees to get to know each other as people, not just as co-workers. You can promote workplace fellowship by sponsoring company events and outings.
4. BE A ROLE MODEL: Employees look to their managers as role models and messengers of organizational values. It’s one thing to insist on conduct based on mutual regard and high character; it’s quite another to demonstrate it. If you model integrity in what you say and do, your employees will probably follow suit.
