Who doesn’t like to be in on a secret? There’s something very alluring about being in the know.
But be careful. Sometimes people who come bearing secrets bring irritation, trouble and danger with them.
When someone wants to share private information, don’t automatically agree to listen and keep their information confidential. Think carefully. Consider the source. For some examples and responses that get you out of the middle:
To read the rest of this article from the Tampa Bay Business Journal, see:
How to steer clear of workplace gossip and secrets
While some people may be annoying time-wasters, others are dangerous carriers of confidences. They’re sneaky, manipulative, negative back-stabbers. They want to sucker you into the middle of a fight.
These people count on the rest of us honoring our promises of secrecy above all else. However, my general rule of survival is to give myself permission to change my mind once I know the information.
A better rule of thumb is to assume that there’s a hidden agenda when anyone wants you to commit to secrecy before they tell you something. If you say “yes,” you’ll become a pawn in their game. You’re better off not knowing.
Of course, sometimes people do need a shoulder. The question is, how often do they come, and with what kind of information?
Get past fears of being ostracized or attacked, stop being bullied by your ideas of politeness and consider what you want to pay attention to. Overcoming an addiction to melodrama might advance your career.
The best way to learn what to do to stop bullies is to hire Dr. Ben for personalized coaching and organizational consulting.
Design and implement an effective plan that eliminates the high cost of low attitudes. To get the help you need, call Ben at 1-877-828-5543.