How to Repel Unwanted Conversations & Gossip
Gossip and negative conversation can cause hurt feelings in any situation, but gossip at work can be far more problematic. While you can choose to avoid a gossipy friend, you have no choice but to deal with co-workers every day. Even being an unwilling participant in the rumor mill can damage your reputation, making you appear unprofessional or even untrustworthy. By understanding how to repel unwanted conversations and gossip, you can increase your productivity and reduce workplace stress.
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Instructions
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Refuse to engage in gossip. If you do, you encourage other gossips to come to you with juicy tidbits and negative comments. Address the underlying fear, jealousy or desire to be "in the know" that may have caused you to get sucked into gossip in the past, suggests networking community Excelle. Practice holding your tongue when you hear confidential news. Once people realize you are a safe confidant, you will often find yourself rewarded with access to important information instead of pointless rumors.
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Shut down gossip and unwanted conversations by refusing to listen. Many gossips thrive on being the center of attention, so listening to gossip can seem like encouragement -- even if you do not participate. Tell the rumormonger that you do not wish to hear that kind of talk or offer to discuss his comments directly with the victim of the gossip, suggests Business Training Works. Walk away every time the conversation turns to rumors, if you feel uncomfortable with direct confrontation. It will not be long before gossips get the picture.
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Threaten to talk to management if the gossip persists. To avoid creating enemies, use this threat only as a last resort -- but do not hesitate if it becomes necessary. Gossip can cause serious problems, not only for the victim of the rumors but for you as well. Listening to gossip, even unwillingly, may cause people to question your integrity and your productivity. Take gossip seriously and do what needs to be done to stop it -- to protect yourself and your co-workers.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not presume that being "out of the loop" will hurt your career. Managers need to know that individuals with increased responsibilities are capable of protecting sensitive information. Developing a reputation as someone who can be trusted with information makes you a more attractive candidate for advancement.
