Working with a gossip

How do you handle working with a gossip? Obviously you can only control your own behavior, not someone else's. Here are some ideas:

1. Don't add your comments.
2. Don't repeat what you heard to others.
3. Depending on the location, you might be able to leave or excuse yourself.
4. Try to change the subject. Think about some questions or topics in advance that you could use. Some examples: How do you cook X? Have you Workamped in Texas? How do you like your Winnebago or Ford?
   
5. If you do say something, don't attack the behavior. Instead you might ask for help in keeping the conversation away from negative gossip.

A recent survey found that 69.7 percent of managers would be wiling to fire an employee for bad office manners. Excessive workplace gossip was one of the bad manners cited in the survey.

Gossip can be harmful, not only to individuals but affect the workplace atmosphere and the ability to get the job done. Even if your manager isn't on the ball in stopping gossip, you can do you part by not participating. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

For information on Jaimie's 2nd edition of Support Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider's Guide to Working on the Road, see RVBookstore.com.