3 Ways to use gossip to strengthen leadership

Often seen as a toxic element in the corporate environment, gossip is being reevaluated from a new perspective. Experts at Hogan Assessments & Global Leader in personality assessment at work and leadership consulting & I.E.A.D have analyzed the topic in depth and identified three positive and relevant impacts gossip can have on organizations.

1 1 A reliable channel of information in the workplace

During times of crisis or structural changes, the flow of internal information tends to decrease, leaving employees uninformed and insecure. In this scenario, gossip emerges as a spontaneous form of communication, filling gaps left by formal channels.

“When formal channels fail, gossip becomes a vital thread for information sharing”, says Allison Howell, Vice President of Market Innovation at Hogan. “Instead of seeing it as inherently negative, organizations can recognize their role in reducing uncertainty and helping employees cope with change”

In addition to keeping teams up-to-date, this type of informal exchange can ease anxiety and encourage adaptability in turbulent times.

2 2 A strategic ally for attentive managers

For proactive leaders, paying attention to rack conversations can be a strategic tool.Gossip acts as an early radar, signaling potential conflicts, tensions or organizational climate changes before they become critical.

“A gossip is not just idle talk; it reflects the thermometer of the” work environment, highlights Howell.“Managers who remain attentive to these signals can strengthen team bonds, reinforce company values and promote a culture of trust and transparency.”

This type of active listening also contributes to the strengthening of emotional and social connections within teams, creating an informal support network.When well conducted, the practice may even favor the self-regulation of the team.

“O important is that leaders follow the content of these conversations, avoid harmful distortions and know when to intervene”, he adds.

3 ^ A diagnostic tool for effective leadership

Gossip can also act as a thermometer of deeper issues.When persistent, negative comments are indicative of unresolved conflicts or failures in organizational culture that deserve attention.

“Instead of demonizing gossip, leaders should view it as a symptom of underlying” challenges, says Howell.“By investing in conflict resolution between teams and improving communication flows, the workplace becomes healthier and cohesive.”

Trying to suppress gossip through punishments, such as negative performance reviews, is often ineffective and in many cases aggravates the problem, intensifying an environment of distrust.

“Companies that recognize the virtues of gossip can transform this behavior, often misunderstood, into a true” ally, concludes Howell.“By using it as a channel of information, cultural reinforcement and diagnostic tool, it is possible to promote more empathy, transparency and a high-performance culture.”