How to Stop the Spread of Malicious Gossip and Rumors about Co-Workers

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By Althea DeBrule
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Malicious rumors attack the very spirit of an individual. There’s no place for them in the principled workplace. Unfortunately, we’re all guilty of spreading rumors. It usually starts innocently enough, but when we “spin” or create juicy stories, they can quickly change into rumors. A recent survey on office rumors revealed that workers who start rumors know more about what’s going on in the office than those who refrain from doing so. Those participants involved in the survey admitted that they make speculations and spin juicy stories, but the majority of them said that they only engage in rumor mongering occasionally. Why is the rumor mill such a widespread workplace activity? Unfortunately, many organizations don't provide feasible explanations of what’s going on. In the absence of any formal communication, workers are left to their own devices. To keep from falling into the rumor mill trap, here are several tips you can use.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Stop spreading rumors immediately. Model this behavior and others will follow. Over time, if you are consistent, the rumors will either stop or you will no longer be included in the gossip chain.
Step 2

Tell anyone spreading rumors that you prefer not to participate in the rumor mill. Let the person know you don't care to hear any more gossip or rumors and that you do not approve of such activity.
Step 3

When it becomes necessary to pass information to others, do so in a manner that ensures that the message heard by those listening is as accurate as possible. Avoid insinuations, juicy gossip, and half-truths. If you are not sure of the information's accuracy, don't repeat it.
Step 4

Gossip and rumors are harmful when you start to believe what you’ve heard or said. It can affect your reputation in the workplace. When tempted to listen to or spread malicious gossip and rumors about others, consider how you would feel if the tables were turned.

Tips & Warnings

It takes two people to gossip, a speaker and a listener. When gossiping occurs, a great deal of information is exchanged.
There is always a kernel of truth in every rumor. This tiny fragment becomes so distorted that it no longer resembles the “real truth” that was its beginning. It has been embellished and exaggerated with each telling until the story is no longer accurate, but more and more hurtful with each re-telling. That's the nature of juicy stories.

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