We all have probably all been the topic of gossip at some point in our life, most likely in middle school. But what happens when the dramatics of middle school enter the office?
Honestly, I was shocked when I started my research for this
post. Unfortunately, this is a growing
problem in all sectors of business. In
fact, a survey for Randstad USA found that 60% of employees list gossip as the
Number One problem in the workplace. It
also found that only 8% of the issues get reported.
Gossip and harassment take a toll on not only the
individual, but on the office as a whole.
This type of an atmosphere does not foster a team environment, causing
productivity to suffer. If a situation
is allowed to escalate, it can create a hostile work environment, leaving
not only the tormentor, but the employer as well, open to legal repercussions.
So how can you, as a manager, foster a positive work
environment?
- Address the issue
and let the staff know that kind of behavior will not be tolerated.
- Encourage
communication between both parties with a manager present, while remaining
impartial.
- Have a policy in
place to deal with workplace harassment.
