Best Way to Break Gossip Chain is to Stop Feeding It Q: This would really be a great place to work if people weren't constantly talking about each other. On any given day, the gossip chain is alive with rumors, venting, complaining, etc. that spreads like wildfire. The end result is a lot of distrust, negativity, and hurt feelings making for a very stressful working environment. I suppose a few people thrive on gossip, but most of us recognize the destruction it causes and want it to stop. Is it possible to break the gossip chain?   A: There are relatively gossip-free workplaces so it's a goal that can be achieved.   You've already accomplished the first step toward change — most of your workmates recognize the problems that gossip is causing and want a change. Now you need to put that awareness and desire into action.   Get started with these tips:   Believe that gossip can be eliminated: You can only achieve what you believe. Define your goal by determining together how you want to communicate differently.   Recognize each person's power over the gossip chain: People are the individual links that keep gossip going. So each time you or others refuse to repeat the rumors, venting, complaining, etc. a link is broken and the chain gets weaker.   Stop listening: Listening validates the worth of a message. So, when it comes to gossip, you can do damage without even opening your mouth.   Make a plan: Decide together what you'll do when gossip starts. When someone attempts to spread negativity, will you cut them off with a reminder that you agreed not to participate in negative conversations about others? Will you encourage complainers to take up their issues directly with the person who is the subject of their criticism?   Resolve conflicts positively and directly when they arise: Unresolved conflict and win-lose approaches to conflict breed negative feelings. Negative feelings fester and grow, becoming the stimulus for gossip.   Be cautious about venting: Don't start the gossip chain by venting about your co-workers with your co-workers. Vent appropriately – with a trusted confidant who will give you objective feedback and who does not have a relationship with the person about whom you're venting.   Use positive words: Words have the power to destroy or build up. Use positive words and you'll get positive results. While it may seem to have a life of its own, in reality the gossip chain can only stay alive if people keep feeding it.