Don’t let workplace gossip damage your career

They say you should never talk about religion, politics or sex at work, but new research from CV Library has revealed the numberonetopicthatworkers should definitely avoid talking about – salaries.

The study, which surveyed 1,100 professionals, revealed that 67.5 per cent of workers think discussing salaries is off the cards. In addition, 65.5 per cent of workers said office relationships should never be talked about, and neither should personal relationships (57 per cent).

The study also found that workers (52.9 per cent) believed gossiping about why a colleague was let go was also off the record, whilst 47.3 per cent agreed staff should not talk about their boss in the workplace.

Whenaskedwhytheydeem these types conversations to be inappropriate for the workplace, 59 per cent said this was because they could be seen as unprofessional.

However, not everyone agreed with the out-of-bounds topics of conversation though, as one in 10 (8.8 per cent) said that you should be able to discuss what you want with your co-workers, with 50.6 per cent agreeing that because we spend a lot of time at work, it’s natural to want to discuss our lives. A further 34.6 per cent said it’s important that we are able to speak our mind – even when we’re at work.

Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library, urges workers to think before they speak in the office.

“The friends we make at work are understandably important to us. After all, we see them almost every day. So it’s not surprising that topics of conversation can turn to our private lives, relationships or office gossip.

“However, if heard by the wrong people, these could potentially land you in hot water. Not to mention the fact that topics such as salary can make others feel uncomfortable.”

Biggins adds: “To avoid any repercussions it’s best to steer clear of gossip about your coworkers, or any confidential newsfromwithinthebusiness.

“While it’s natural to want to discuss your life with your co-workers, remember that any conversations had in the workplace must remain professional.

“Ifyouareparticularlyclose to your colleagues, save these conversations for outside work hours or on your lunch break.”