Causes and effects of workplace gossip

Organizations plagued by workplace gossip often find problems with morale, productivity, and ultimately, perhaps even profitability. There are many causes and effects associated with workplace gossip. One of the biggest issues connected with office gossip is the fact the rumors (whether true or not) can spread quickly and have many negative repercussions.

Types of office gossip

Typically, if gossip in the office occurs it comes in two forms. One is personal, the other is work-related. Each category of gossip has its own problematic issues, and each can be difficult to contend with when it occurs.

Personal gossip can be hurtful and cause significant problems for the individuals who find themselves in the center of the idle chitchat. Unfortunately, this can lead to irrevocable damage to a professional reputation and harm relationships with colleagues. Dreams of promotions can be shattered whether the stories are true or not.

While there are many similarities, workplace gossip also can spread like wildfire and affect not just one person, but all the members of the organization. For instance, when rumors begin to fly about management or organizational policies and are spread as truth when embellished with this speculation, it can lead to widespread workplace panic or dissatisfaction even if the gossip proves to be untrue.

Causes of gossip

The causes of gossip are pretty straight-forward. It is human nature to want to know information and many individuals have an inherent need to talk and share information. However, there is a line that is often crossed with gossip. Some individuals have an overabundant need to talk about other people. The reasons may vary, but the ultimate result is the same. Most gossipers are likely either insecure, unhappy or worried about their own appearance and have an inherent need to be accepted. What better way than to engage in constant conversation?

The problem isn't the conversational component, it is the type of dialogue being generated. Gossipers, once found out, typically give off vibes that are unpleasant, full of mistrust and even annoyance. Audiences to the gossip will probably begin to wonder if the person is being honest, sincere, and if they are a backstabber or even reliable.

Effects of gossip

The effects of gossip are another animal. Some gossip is not really malicious, but rather, well just "gossipy", and no real harm outside of low productivity and interruption occurs. Idle chitchat is an organizational issue, but likely the lesser of two evils.

Other types of gossip, however, are instigated with the intent to harm. This kind of scandal tends to get out of control and can hurt a person's reputation or bring down an organization. Even if the gossip turns out to be unfounded, the damage is already done. Once information leaks outside the organization it can hurt profitability and a business' reputation.

Both kinds of workplace gossip result in under-performance, hurt feelings and misconceived notions. If you find yourself amidst an environment that is plagued with workplace gossip it is best to not perpetuate and contribute, instead, find better ways to handle the gossip. The infectious effects of gossip can be difficult to contend with and wherever possible it is best to try and break the cycle.