Vous naviguez dans les potins du lieu de travail avec vos pairs. Comment pouvez-vous établir des limites saines ?

Engaging in negative gossip is non-productive at best and toxic at worst. ☠️ I like to invite alternative perspectives. For example, someone may be going through something that we are unaware of, and would benefit from support. 💛 Or to invite the participants to reflect on what this is bringing up in them as others are often a mirror for ourselves.🪞 Finally, brainstorming productive respectful actions encourages a more positive response to the situation and can help deter a downward spiral, or at least signal you are not spiraling with them🙂

An example I have used is to just walk away and please do not involve yourself! This occurs at all jobs and can create toxic environments.

To navigate workplace gossip and establish healthy boundaries, focus on clear communication and assertiveness. Politely steer conversations away from gossip by redirecting to work-related topics. Set a professional example by avoiding participation in or spreading gossip yourself. Communicate openly with peers about your preference for positive and constructive interactions. If necessary, address the issue with a supervisor or HR if gossip becomes disruptive. Remember, maintaining a professional demeanor and encouraging a culture of respect can help foster a healthier workplace environment.

First and most importantly always, always focus on positive dialogue rather than negative dialogue. Why have it any other way?

Once on the job, I noticed that addressing gossip directly but courteously can quickly defuse the situation. It also helps to set a tone of professionalism in the workplace. Based on my experience, saying something simple like, "I’m not comfortable with this topic," can be enough to shift the conversation back to work-related matters without offending anyone. One thing I've found helpful is to lead by example—if you consistently steer clear of gossip, others are more likely to follow suit and respect your boundaries.

Wenn alles so gut wie der Klatsch und Tratsch in Firmen laufen würde, wäre das sensationell. Eines Tages machte ich die Erfahrung, dass während der gemeinsamen Mini-Auszeit hinterrucks über nicht anwesende Kolleginnen geredet wurde. Zuerst dachte ich, dass ich mich verhört hatte und ignorierte die Situation. Keine gute Lösung und feig noch dazu. Denn nur weil ich nicht mitlästere, bin ich noch keine Hilfe für die nicht Anwesenden. Es belastete mich und mir war klar, dass ich hier etwas tun "musste", um mir weiterhin in den Spiegel schauen zu können. Tags drauf forderte ich die Kolleg:innen auf, das Gerede zu unterlassen und stattdessen sich etwas zu überlegen, was wir gemeinsam anders machen können. Und siehe da, der Vorschlag fruchtete.