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Can the Water Cooler be Toxic?
Office gossip and water cooler talk are almost unavoidable. But when does it go too far? Some managers find the rumor mill a distraction and toxic, while others welcome the opportunity to know the inside story where their employees are concerned.
In one article I found, the owner of a small company ended gossip in his office by telling employees that any rumors being spread would be revealed to the person who the rumor was about, along with the source of the rumor.
Certainly rumors can be hurtful and gossip can decrease productivity and employee morale, but when should and shouldn't employees engage in office gossip? Here are a few suggestions:
• Avoid spreading information that starts with "you know what I heard?" or "Did you hear that...?" Usually this means it's second or third hand information and probably has been distorted or is entirely false.
• Your manager may confide in you regarding company news that may not be public. Check with you manager before sharing any information with your team.
• Remember that rumors about individuals can be hurtful and could get back to that person, which could result in low morale. Resist the temptation to join in and mention what "you heard" about someone.
• If you do hear company gossip and rumors about new hires, layoffs, or company changes ask your manager and get the story straight. They may not be able to tell you anything, but they may be able to ease your fears or correct any misinformation.
Bottom line, keep office gossip to a minimum and think twice before spreading it around.
Posted by Don Boone on November 26, 2007 at 2:02 PM
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