Do You like to Gossip?

Socializing is a natural human activity and may even be considered a need for survival. It is necessary for social norms and culture to be understood in order to learn and grow within a group or setting; climbing the social ladder isn’t just for housewives and women’s groups! Men take part in this form of interaction but perhaps in a different context; business networks, closed social circles, and even groups of friends can take part in similar interaction patterns. And it’s in these close circles and networks that the need to gossip is commonplace.

Gossip isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it is a way for people to connect, to gain insight about one another, and learn through the grapevine. Positive gossip creates unique, interesting, and evolving relationships. Who doesn’t want to know a friend’s decision to propose one week before their potential mate? Who wouldn’t want to know that their neighbor friends are planning a surprise party for their new son-in-law? However, gossip in the negative contexts can cause harm and emotional upset between friends, groups, and networks. But can it be overcome, or is it a natural human trait?

Workplace gossip is likely the most popular; most people spend almost half of their waking life at work, and can form tight bonds with peers and coworkers. Gossiping around the water cooler isn’t just for office types; it is a widespread trend, and can often be the way to learn a company’s culture from the inside out. If and when you koow what happens in the rumor mill, it’s likely that you will be able to identify safe, and unsafe, territory! Just remember that being known as a gossip monger is probably not your best career option; it’s best to stay aware, but choose not to participate. If you take your job and career seriously enough, you wouldn’t want to be associated with this always-present vein in any company!  As tempting as it may be, set your boundaries and stick with them.