"Fire and swords are slow engines of destruction compared to the tongue of a gossip." -Richard Steele
Not sure if that conversation is gossip or not? Here's how to tell:
Workplace gossip is always a hot topic. However, what I find interesting is how many people are unsure whether a conversation they are engaged in is considered malicious gossip or whether they should even engage in the gossip or not!
If you are approached with gossip and you are unsure whether it is malicious or not, a good gauge is what would the subject of the conversation think about it if they were standing there. For instance, are you talking about how much you admire their presentation skills or are you talking about how bad their presentation skills are? If the latter, then chances are you are engaged in malicious gossip. At this point, the power is in your hands. When the music sucks turn the dial. You can either end the conversation or shift the conversation to something more positive, even if you agree with what is being said.
For instance, if you are speaking with the gossiper, you can say something like, "I know that presentation was not the best, but what are some tips we can give ____ so that they can improve their presentation skills." You can also go directly to the co-worker who is the subject of the conversation. Instead of talking about the co-worker behind their back, you can give them constructive feedback directly in a helpful tactful manner. Again, the power is in your hands. When the music sucks, turn the dial.
For instance, if you are speaking with the gossiper, you can say something like, "I know that presentation was not the best, but what are some tips we can give ____ so that they can improve their presentation skills." You can also go directly to the co-worker who is the subject of the conversation. Instead of talking about the co-worker behind their back, you can give them constructive feedback directly in a helpful tactful manner. Again, the power is in your hands. When the music sucks, turn the dial.
