People gossip at work even in the best organisations. One bit of gossip is harmless, but another could have more consequences. We generally associate this ‘idle chatter’ with a negative activity, which doesn’t belong at work. Yet research shows that a visit to the coffee machine quickly turns into a gossip session. As a manager, how do you create a culture in which gossip contributes constructively to the working atmosphere?
Every organisation has its own gossip culture, which does not necessarily have to be negative. When employee gossip negatively affects productivity or the mental well-being of other colleagues, it is obviously crucial to intervene in time. Nevertheless, it is important that employees feel a certain freedom to chat. After all, it strengthens the bond between colleagues and helps to reduce stress.
Gossiping in the workplace is therefore permissible, as long as employees stick to the established code of conduct. Respect, open feedback, and cooperation play a key role here. For example, it is important that employees respect the line between venting and spreading negative information that may harm or injure others.
Chats among employees can benefit the functioning of the organisation and the mental well-being of the entire team. By disseminating important and correct information through this informal channel, the team is often informed more quickly than if you were to address all employees through a more formal channel. This principle also works in the other direction, of course. As a manager, this way allows you to find out more quickly which problems require attention.
By communicating openly with all employees as an employer, you also offer them greater certainty about their role or future within the company. This is significant, as employees are more prone to gossip when they feel insecure about these aspects. In times of organisational change, it is best to communicate what these changes mean for employees. This way, gossip doesn’t get a chance to distort things.
In a respectful work culture, leaders work with their employees to create an atmosphere of open communication and trust. When good and less good experiences are discussed respectfully, everyone learns to deal with conflicts and each other’s emotions constructively. This promotes relationships between teammates. Trust and open communication therefore lead to a safe and positive working environment, in which the well-being of employees is paramount.
A gossip-free workplace may sound like music to your ears, but in reality, it’s often a utopia. However, a respectful work culture in which team members and managers communicate openly with each other offers a good alternative. But how do you create such an environment? The following tips will get you started.
Our ‘Respect in the workplace’ training course provides employees with the tools they need to manage their personal relationships and improve their well-being at work.
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