TrainingBriefs® Defamation of Character

Gossip is one of those areas where it’s easy to find us on the wrong side of the line. While it may seem like harmless water cooler talk, it’s not. Not only is gossip unprofessional because it destroys respect and trust in the workplace; it can also get our organization and us into a lot of trouble.

Malicious gossip can be a violation of policy and can even be seen as defamation of character and result in a lawsuit. So, the best advice is, when it comes to gossip…. Don’t start it and don’t spread it. And, if you hear something you believe is out of line, report it.