It is difficult not to become involved in gossip at work because mostly people like gossip and whispers about others. It wastes time, damages reputations, promotes divisiveness, creates anxiety, and

Hello Shadav: I believe gossip is a subtle form of bullying and should not be tolerated. As project managers and leaders, we should take a stand to not gossip, promote or tolerate gossip.

Great question. Here's my take on this. Gossip also called grapevine has always existed and will continue to exist. There are few things that can be done to use it to the project's advantage. One, a well-developed communication plan along with stakeholder management plan will cater to the communication needs of stakeholders. Lack of clarity creates a gap which is filled by the grapevine. Second, a channel of communication that runs from team members to the project manager is essential. In other words, team members must be given an opportunity to openly express their concerns. When that does not happen, grapevine takes a damaging role. And third, empathetic behavior by the project manager to develop a personal relationship with team members supported with an honest down-to-earth approach.

I believe these three things can turn that gossip factory into a supporting lobby.

Shadav -

1. Model the behaviors which you want others to follow

2. Help the team develop a working agreement about how they will interact with one another and encourage direct, face-to-face communication over "the watercooler".

Kiron