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How to Deal with Workplace Gossip

Chiara Bradshaw
· · Updated Jan 16, 2026 · 2 min read
How you deal with workplace gossip is something you consciously and unconsciously do every day at work. Gossip or the "rumor mill" can be trivial or harmful, depending on the topic of discussion.

Learn how to avoid and deal with this type of situation to maintain your personal values, avoid hurting other people, maintain productivity and workplace morale.

 

6 Steps To Deal With Workplace Gossip

Workplace Gossip

1.limit Your Association With The Office Gossipmonger

In most cases, this person is looking to get new information to talk about and to perpetuate existing rumors.

 

2. Tell The Person You Do Not Want To Hear, Participate İn Or Engage İn Conversations About Other People Or Co-workers

Once you express your concern, most workplace gossipmongers will leave you alone.

 

3. Avoid İntroducing Topics That Could Be Considered Gossip Or Lead To İt

Dealing with workplace gossip means you should avoid participating in it. You may not intend to start or participate in the "rumor mill" but it is human nature to talk about other situations and people.

 

4. Change The Topic İf You Hear Or Are Participating İn A Conversation About Another Person

 

5. Walk Away From The Conversation

If you vocalize your concerns about workplace gossip, most of the time it will stop.

However, if this does not happen, walk away from the conversation. This sends a clear verbal and nonverbal cue to your co-workers that you are not interested in participating in conversations that could potentially hurt someone.

 

6. Remind Employees That Your Office Has A Policy Against Spreading Gossip And Rumors

Most companies now have this as part of everyone's employment clause due to the tendency of rumors to get out of control, hurt other people and decrease both morale and productivity.

 

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How to Deal with Workplace Gossip

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Written by

Chiara Bradshaw

Chiara Bradshaw has been writing for a variety of professional, educational and entertainment publications for more than 12 years. Chiara holds a Bachelor of Arts in art therapy and behavioral science from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee.

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