Information Flow: What's Good and Bad About Gossip at Work?

Jon Bender, a managing partner at PrincetonOne, an executive search firm, was surprised to receive a nasty, gossipy e-mail about himself. He was obviously not the intended receiver. Instead of shooting back an equally incendiary message, he decided to talk with the sender. He said, "You're upset. Let's talk about it, but it's not appropriate in an e-mail." 61 Your Task. In groups, discuss Mr. Bender's response to gossip about himself. Did he do the right thing? How would you have reacted?

Although gossip is generally considered unacceptable and a negative force, it can be a tool for managers and employees. Make a list of at least four benefits and four negative consequences of workplace gos- sip. Be prepared to explain and defend each item.