How to Stop Employees From Talking Behind Your Back

Treat others how you want to be treated.

Learning that colleagues are talking about you behind your back is embarrassing and can cause workplace difficulty. However, making minor adjustments can greatly reduce incidences of backstabbing. Usually, such betrayals begin when a colleague feels uncomfortable expressing his opinion to you -- but expresses it behind closed doors to someone else. The first step to improving workplace communication is a simple procedural change that will allow everyone to have their say.

Instructions

1. Improve meeting structure. Each meeting should have a clear objective and a strong chair who will facilitate the discussion. The chair should make it a point to publicly ask everyone's opinion -- asking what went well and what needs to improve are good questions. Remember that everyone has a right to an opinion.

2. Communicate effectively by keeping quiet. Listen to others' ideas completely before responding. Don't interrupt. If you're unsure what a person means, ask her to clarify. If you're upset, keep quiet and take deep breaths.

3. Don't gossip. Keep your own manners and conscience in good shape by refusing to engage in petty chatter. Always keep your own comments about others positive.

4. Avoid judgment and blame, at all costs. Appreciate others by showing respect for their opinions, and always take responsibility for your own actions.

Tips & Warnings

• Changing backstabbing behavior takes time. Lead by example: Don't gossip if you don't want to be gossiped about.

References

• Biznik; Could You Stop Politics and Back-Stabbing at Work?; May 6, 2010