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Gossip. Such an unkind, hurtful, and generally untruthful thing. Consider the points below when listening to or being tempted to repeat gossip at work.
- You are part of a valuable, trusted, and hardworking team. Unkind gossip will hurt the effectiveness and closeness of your team.
- Gossip will erode the trust that each team member has worked so hard to earn.
- The best way to avoid having anyone talk about you is to keep personal information personal.
- If you hear gossip that simply is not true, say so.
- Let the gossiper know that you are uncomfortable discussing someone else’s private life.
- Criticism of others is a type of gossip and is also unacceptable.
- Should you decide to stay and listen to the gossip, that makes you a part of the problem.
- Either change the subject, let the person(s) know you are uncomfortable, or excuse yourself and leave the conversation.
I always excuse myself and let the gossiper know that I cannot be associated with this improper discussion. Once this is said, the conversation ends and the offender is left standing by him or herself reconsidering this offensive behavior.
Be a hero and stand up for your excellent teammates. The positive outcomes are invaluable.
Excerpts of blog taken from the book: Hospitality Management – People Skills & Manners on and off the Job. Copyright © 2015 Lyn Pont, Ph.D.
— Isadore Sharp, chairman and founder, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
“Pont’s book is a must-read for anyone considering a career in hospitality.”
See the book at: www.HospitalityManners.com
Visit Lyn at: www.MannersForBusiness.com
