YOUR ROLE IN RUMOR CONTROL

It's true; most of us love a juicy piece of gossip. Even if we don't want to believe it, we still want to hear it. The rumor mill usually carries benign or amusing commentary. Unfortunately, some idiots get a kick out of passing around accusations and recriminations just to gain attention.

Perhaps the rumors where you work aren't that rough on people. Just in case things do get out of hand, here are a few suggestions you'll find useful the next time the rumor mill starts grinding out harmful information:

1. When you get wind of a rumor, tell people in your area of influence everything thing you know about the facts of the matter. Don't wait until you have all the details, just get the truth out there quickly. If, later on, what you've said turns out to be inaccurate, then retell it the right way as soon as you get a chance.

2. Pick out associates who are trustworthy and question them personally. Tell them you want to know the truth about what they've seen or heard. Ask them not to embellish upon what they tell you. Let them know that if you find out they've twisted the facts in any way, you won't trust them in the future. 

3. Listen to the opinions of others thoughtfully without comment. Keep your attitude in check and your feelings on hold. Avoid making a judgment about the right or wrong of what's happening. Once you've collected sufficient information to make a conclusion; pass along only the facts you have verified.

This may sound harsh, but when the rumors are flying people don't care what you think. Your opinion doesn't hold much value either. They just want to know if you have any first hand knowledge to contribute.

Regardless of how well you communicate, inaccurate information will still wend its way through the grape vine. Misinformation can be hurtful to sensitive people and detrimental to team spirit. Not to mention the potential for wasting time, energy and resources. That's why taking an active role in rumor control is so important.

Note: Share only what you know and rumors won't grow.

V. O. R.