Stop the Gossip: How Leaders Can Shut Down Workplace Toxicity

Gossip is a damaging behavior that destroys trust, divides teams, and fuels toxicity. Yet, despite knowing the harm it causes, gossip is still prevalent in many healthcare settings.

As leaders, we need to stop normalizing gossip and start shutting it down. If you allow gossip to spread unchecked, you’re essentially giving it your approval. What you allow is what will continue.

Strategies for Leaders:

• Set the expectation – Make it clear that gossip is not tolerated. In staff meetings, say: “We don’t talk about people; we talk TO people.”
• Call it out in the moment – When you hear gossip, respond with: “Let’s not have this conversation without them here.” A simple redirection can stop it in its tracks.
• Be the role model – Leaders must lead by example. If you engage in gossip (even unintentionally), you give others permission to do the same.
• Encourage direct communication – If an employee has an issue with a colleague, encourage them to address it professionally rather than venting behind their back. Offer guidance if needed.

Gossip isn’t just harmless chatter - it’s a form of workplace incivility that erodes teamwork and morale. Leaders have the power to stop it, but only if we take action.

How do you handle gossip in your workplace? Let us know in the comments.