Ever feel like you’re running a karinderya instead of a company because of the non-stop tsismis?
Worse, it’s not just idle chatter about who’s dating whom.
This is serious, career-damaging gossip, and it’s targeting your fresh-faced OJT. Parang they took “Welcome to the team” as a challenge to make the newbie’s life miserable.
What’s a manager to do? You want to support your new recruit naman, right? But you also gotta deal with the resident chismosa spreading rumors faster than you can say “extra rice.”
Don’t worry, Boss. We gotchu. Here’s the lowdown on handling toxic employees, shutting down gossip, and creating a workplace where everyone (even the newbies) can thrive.
The Rumor Mill: Why It’s Bad for Everyone
Before we go full-on teleserye mode, let’s break down why this workplace drama is bad for business:
- Kills Morale: Nobody wants to work in an environment where they feel judged or constantly under attack.
- Tanks Productivity: All that time spent gossiping? That’s time not spent being productive.
- Creates a Toxic Culture: Gossip breeds negativity, and negativity spreads faster than chismis in a sari-sari store.
- Legal Headaches: Yep, if rumors escalate into harassment or discrimination, you’re looking at potential legal trouble.
Identifying the Chismosa (and Their Modus Operandi)
Sometimes, the gossip source is obvious. Other times, it’s like finding a tiny butiki in a bahay kubo – tricky, but you know it’s there. Look out for these telltale signs:
- The “Concerned” Citizen: They frame gossip as concern. “I’m just worried about [OJT’s name]…did you hear…?”
- The Whisperer: They pull people aside for “private” conversations, leaving others feeling left out and suspicious.
- The Social Media Butterfly: From cryptic posts to direct attacks, they bring the drama online (and potentially put the company at risk).
Shutting Down the Chismis Network
Now, let’s address the drama head-on. Here’s your game plan:
- Documentation is Key: Jot down specific instances of gossip, including dates, times, and witnesses. This protects you and helps build a case if further action is needed.
- One-on-One with the Rumor Monger: Time for a little usapang totoo. Be direct, but professional.
- “I’ve received feedback about comments made about [OJT’s name].”
- “Spreading rumors creates a negative environment. We need to address this.”
- Set Clear Expectations: Remind them of company policies regarding harassment and bullying. May memo ba? Time to refresh everyone’s memory.
- Focus on Behavior, Not Personality: Avoid labeling them (even if you’re thinking “chismosa!” in your head). Stick to addressing their actions and their impact.
- **Consequences, Po?: ** If talking it out doesn’t work, be prepared to take disciplinary action, following your company’s HR procedures.
Empowering Your OJT: Building Confidence, One Chika at a Time
Your OJT might be feeling like they walked into the middle of a teleserye. Here’s how to support them:
- Open Communication is Key: Make it clear that you have their back and encourage them to come to you with any concerns. Walang mahirap sa’yo, ‘di ba?
- Provide Regular Feedback and Guidance: Don’t let the chismosa’s negativity impact their performance evaluation. Focus on their actual work and provide constructive criticism.
- Training and Mentorship: Equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. Confidence is the best antidote to negativity!
- Peer Support: Connect your OJT with positive and supportive colleagues. It takes a village to raise…well, a successful trainee!
Creating a Gossip-Free (or at Least Gossip-Resistant) Workplace
Preventing future drama is always better than dealing with the aftermath. Here’s how to cultivate a more positive and supportive work environment:
- Lead by Example: Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap. The same goes for gossip. If you don’t engage in it, your team is less likely to, too.
- Promote Open and Honest Communication: Encourage employees to bring concerns directly to the person involved or to their manager, instead of resorting to chismis.
- Team Building Activities: Remember those “trust falls”? Okay, maybe not that extreme, but regular team-building activities can foster stronger relationships and reduce the need for gossip.
- Recognition and Appreciation: Celebrate successes and acknowledge hard work. A positive workplace leaves less room for negativity to fester.
Remember: You’re not just a manager; you’re a leader. By addressing gossip head-on, you’re not just protecting your OJT, you’re creating a healthier and more productive work environment for everyone. Para sa ekonomiya!