Gordon Graham
Category: Public Safety

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for everyone in public safety. Today I want to talk about the rumor mill or the grapevine. Gossip. All humans participate in some form of gossip. Workplace chatting. Group texts. Venting about a coworker over lunch.

If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. Demonstrate respect for your coworkers and for yourself. Your reputation and the reputation of your agency depend on it.

Why do we gossip? Some researchers say that gossip helped our ancestors survive. It creates bonds between humans. Sharing information is the ultimate form of socializing.

Gossip isn’t always negative. If someone tells you that your reputation has preceded you, they may have heard good things. Problems only arise when people disseminate untrue or negative information.

What’s the big deal? It causes a gradual deterioration of trust and morale. There may be a decline in productivity. It can increase anxiety and tension. This may result in turnover of personnel and loss of good talent.

When negative gossip begins, be assertive. Walk away or change the subject. Finally, I know you’ve heard this before. But if you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all. Demonstrate respect for your coworkers and for yourself. Your reputation and the reputation of your agency depend on it.

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.