Discussion Question

Office Gossip

The informal conversations that occur in a workplace outside of official communication channels can serve several positive social functions: Helping new workers acclimate to an office culture, creating social bonds and trust among co-workers, reducing uncertainty about policies and practices, and so on. Informal conversations can also cross the line and become idle talk about others’ personal business, or rumors. What is a leader’s role (if any) in dealing with office gossip? How can office gossip affect leadership making?