Becoming Our Best
A LITTLE GOSSIP NEVER HURT ANYBODY
“Let me tell you something. I really shouldn’t tell you, so please don’t pass it along to anyone else. I saw Susan and John….”. What do you think the chances are that the average listener will keep the secret you disclosed? Do you have any idea how many others will hear the story, or an even more destructive version of it? How much damage could this story do to Susan, John and their relationships?
Most people seem to have some difficulty in discerning what needs to be kept confidential and what we can legitimately pass along to others. The general mindset seems to be that if something is told to us, why not pass it along?
Here are a few guidelines to help you decide about keeping information confidential or passing it to others.
• Is the information true? If you are not sure, check it out.
• Will passing the information along be helpful? If not, keep it confidential.
• Have you been asked not to disclose the information? Then don’t disclose it!
There is sometimes a fine line of distinction between gossip and those important matters that need to be brought to the attention of others. You can always check with a trusted advisor if you are undecided about whether or not to disclose the information. And finally, when in doubt, keep the matter confidential.
Author: Bruce Johnsen Management Consultant:
824 Munras Ave Suite G
Monterey, CA 93940
831-373-5969
bruce@brucejohnsen.com
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