I have been at my job for about six months.
I really like my job, and see myself moving up eventually.
The problem is this:
My boss (I am her secretary) is the worlds biggest gossip! She tells her co-workers and me personal things about her employees and I want her to realize that she is hurting people and herself. You know how gossip gets around!
She can be really nice, but she tends to tell me alot about others that seems to be crossing the line. I never repeat what I hear.
In the past she has gotten rid of employees who stand up to her. So I feel if I let her know how much it bothers me, she may do the same to me!
She retires in a couple years.
So I guess what I want to know is:
How do I cope with this women who is making me crazy??
2007-10-03 08:15:30 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
OK you know your boss is a gossip - so
Be careful not to share anything with her that isn't directly work-related. Ever. Mind your own business.
When she starts to talk about others - gently direct the conversation back to work-related topics.
Let the gossip stop with you. Even if you want to - don't spread it. But NOTE the situation/etc. - in a private calendar so you can refer back to events when the fit hits the shan.
Make an appointment with H/R and discuss what the company's policies are regarding gossip - and act accordingly.
And yes, begin looking for another job. Maybe a transfer...
2007-10-03 08:35:45 · answer #1 · answered by Barbara B 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When she starts gossiping go quiet and don't engage in it with her. If this doesn't work say, while laughing/smiling 'Oh dear, I don't want to hear anymore, I just don't feel comfortable talking about someone behind their back'. Or you could bring up New Year Resolutions and say that you are giving up gossiping for the new year. Sort something now, otherwise you will just get more angry and inappropriately explode at her some day. good luck.
2007-10-03 08:21:02 · answer #2 · answered by Smokeabella 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Don't confront her directly about it but the next time she brings up some juicy piece of gossip try to politely nip it in the bud. Just tell her you think people have been overhearing your conversations and its getting you in trouble. Tell her you want to keep peace in the office.
After a few times of this she might stop.
2007-10-03 08:27:26 · answer #3 · answered by RLW 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Listen to her and nod your head...Then instead of gossiping, say something like: Maybe she/he did that for a good reason...Always bring up good intentions and the positive side of the story to people who gossips...that put them off!
2007-10-03 08:33:32 · answer #4 · answered by HopeH 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sometimes its better to keep your mouth shut and just do your job, remain neutral when she starts gossiping, dont take sides and youll be fine.
2007-10-03 08:21:52 · answer #5 · answered by Carla 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you say anything you are as bad as she . If you show interest in what she says you only encourage her. just leave it alone.
2007-10-03 08:24:39 · answer #6 · answered by D B 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
make sure you what you are going say before you open your mouth.
2007-10-03 08:24:44 · answer #7 · answered by Jewel E 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋