If there are rumors spreading around your workplace, you may have some serious concerns. A lie about you may ruin your reputation or career. Learning that coworkers are talking badly about you behind your back may feel devastating.
You may be wondering if there is anything you can do about these annoying, false statements. Here are some steps you may want to take to combat gossip in the workplace:
1. Be wise about approaching the instigator
While your instinct may be to confront the person slandering you, this may backfire. Sadly, there may not be much of a chance that the person will stop once you confront him or her. It is possible that your confrontation may even make matters worse. Some bullies thrive on getting attention and will continue stirring up rumors.
2. Handle it with reverse psychology
Depending on how serious or false the rumor is, you may want to try some reverse psychology. For example, if there is truth to the rumor, you may want to admit it and help everyone understand that the issue is over. If the rumor is harmless, you may want to try talking or joking about it and act like it does not bother you.
However, you should not try this strategy if there is a harmful lie. These malicious statements may amount to defamation of your character, and you should never admit to something that is not true.
3. Consider taking legal action
The truth is, some things are more than just rumors. What you may assume is just gossip may actually be slander or libel. This is especially true if the statements are hurting your career prospects. You may want to talk to a lawyer about your situation to determine if filing a lawsuit is a good idea.
Rumors are annoying at best and life-altering at worst. Take these three pieces of advice to keep the gossip from spreading.