What should or could you do, when one of your employees is not actually the problem at work, but rather a fellow leader or even your line manager or 2-up?

In this episode, I'll discuss with you my first-hand experience of dealing with a situation like this and suggest some ways that you can go about solving this problem. 

Being in a leadership role can be tough. We have multiple different challenges every single day and problems that we have to solve. We're also pushed out of our comfort zone often!

One of those uncomfortable situations, could be having a crucial or tough conversation with someone. 

We often avoid having tough conversations because we don't know how the other person is going to react. 

But their reaction is on them... it's not your responsibility. What you can control and what is your responsibility is your actions, your words and controlling your emotions.

1. Make an appointment to speak with this person

2. Prepare well, write down some key words or phrases that you can take with you (in case you freeze up)

3. Approach the person calmly, instead of going in guns blazing ready to defend and attack.

4. Address the issue as a collective issue, saying that you are concerned for the gossip culture and that other employees are worried as well. Ask them if they would be able to commit to creating a gossip-free culture and share with them the RESPECT Framework (Listen to episode 46 for more information) to get rid of gossip. 

5. If they get defensive, state the facts. stick to the facts and do not take it personal. It's personal to them, not to you.

6. Follow up after the meeting

7. Get other leaders, line managers involved and committed to a gossip-free environment.

Mentioned in the Episode

John Maxwell - 360° Leadership (from Amazon)

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• RESPECT Framework - a 7 step framework for eradicating workplace gossip