Walk away. When some one leans over and asks if you have heard, something just leave if you do not want to be a part of the gossip. You do not have to listen and yes it may seem rude, but the rumors that are trying to spread are just that, rude. Whatever the topic is it should just be the people involved who know about it involved. Besides chances are the one spreading the gossip does not know anything about it, but a small bit of conversation they over heard.

If you feel walking away is still too rude, you can always answer with certain phrases. If you simply say no it may not get your point across, they may take that as a sign to tell you. So saying something like, “No I have not heard and I really am not interested,” or “I realize most individuals are interested in gossip, but I find it hurtful to those involved and I do not wish to be a part of it.” Sometimes a person may feel it rude to have such a rebuff or they may find you are putting them in their place, but it is important to realize you should never have to be uncomfortable in your job and you should be able to speak how you feel.

If the gossip is about you, you may want to talk with the person or persons spreading the rumors. In a work environment, everyone should be adult enough to realize that gossip is not warranted especially if an individual asks that person to stop. In other words you should not fear repercussions if you speak directly to the one spreading the rumors. To stop gossip at work you should take the proactive approach. It may even require going to a superior or someone who can mediate for you.

As an employer who wishes to stop gossip, you may find holding a meeting. It could help to include this portion in your sexual harassment information. When people are forced to see the downside of gossiping they generally understand that it can be hurtful and the company may be able to reprimand them for their behavior. If it is part of a company policy that gossip is not tolerated it could be considered at the very least a verbal reprimand for improper work behavior.

The downside to any coin is that if you say something to the person directly about gossip they may believe the story as true and give it more fuel than needed. Everyone should have their privacy so the best way to stop gossip is to keep your personal life and have your employee’s keep their personal lives separate from work.