8 Ways to Get Your Co-workers to Stop Gossiping - The Muse

8 Ways to Get Your Co-workers to Stop Gossiping - The Muse8 Ways to Get Your Co-workers to Stop GossipingTheres always plenty of material for gossip in an office. Everyone has at least one or two co-workers they cant stand, an over-demanding manager, a project manager who sends midnight emails- or all of the above.And I think we all know that talking about those people with a sympathetic fellow employee can feel really, really good.Unfortunately, in the long run, gossiping will only harm your reputation and career. Youll appear less professional, youll lose some of your trustworthiness, and youll even make a few enemies (because gossip goes round and round). So, next time your co-worker tries to trash talk with you, heres what to say to (politely) shut it down.1. Huh. That Doesnt Sound True.Rumors are always going around this response will work for virtually all of them. By shedding some doubt on the truthfulness of the story, youll make it difficult for the gossiper to continue. You can even follow up with a change in subject, such as, But you know what is true? Were officially going to Cancun for the corporate retreat. Im so excited.2. That Mustve Been Tough- Name Was Probably Having a Bad Day. Anyway, Did You Hear About?When someone is complaining about another person, your best bet is to express some sympathy for both of them and then quickly move on. 3. Ugh- Id Much Rather Talk About Your Weekend Plans/Apartment Progress/Exciting New Project How Is it Going?The key to switching the topic so blatantly is to make it about the other person. Hey, everyone loves to talk about themselves- take advantage of it4. Id Love to Chat, But Im Super Busy Right Now.This response is a great way to politely end a conversation with anyone dead-set on gossiping. And if this person approaches you later to try again, stay polite but disengaged. He or she will get the hint.5. Hmm, Thats So Weird- Ive Only Had Great Experiences With Name.Its difficult to keep insulting or spreadi ng gossip about people when the person youre talking to has just praised them. 6. If Thats True, I Dont Want to Hear Any MoreThis response, delivered with a good-natured smile, is a foolproof way of stopping a mean-spirited person in his or her tracks. 7. Im Trying Not to Gossip Anymore. Lets Talk About Your Side Gig Instead Hows That Been Going?When youve tried changing the subject or showing disinterest, and your colleague is still trying to gossip, then come right out and say youre kicking the habit.The key? Make your announcement short and sweet, then ask a question. You dont want to sound judgmental or disapproving. 8. You Should Probably Talk to Name Directly. If it Were Me, Id Want the Opportunity to Set the Record Straight.When you hear rumors that could affect a persons professional reputation, use this reply to not-so-subtly show youre not interested in discussing them.Plus, youll seem mature, level-headed, and kindWith these eight replies ready to go, avoiding workplace g ossip will be super easy.