A favorite and a classic.
Human nature craves the exchange of information. When that exchange turns unproductive, try this four-step approach:
- Understand the difference between valid information and gossip.
- If it’s gossip, nip it in the bud.
- If it’s gossip, change the subject.
- If it’s gossip, confront the individual.
Keep the strategies above in mind so when you’re confronted with a gossipy associate, you have the checklist to respond appropriately.
Why It Matters in a Brokerage
Gossip spreads fast in an office. A rumor about a split change, a departing agent or a lost listing can drain a team’s energy in a day. Leaders set the tone by what they allow.
What to Say
- Nip it in the bud: “I’d rather not talk about someone who isn’t here.”
- Change the subject: “Speaking of the market, how’s your new listing doing?”
- Confront it: “Have you talked to them directly? That might clear it up.”
Leaders Go First
Gossip usually fills a vacuum. When people don’t know what’s happening with a split change or a departing agent, they guess, and the guesses spread. The best defense is clear, early communication:
- Share news yourself, before the rumor does.
- When you can’t share details, say so, and say when you will.
- Keep a regular rhythm, like a weekly sales meeting update, so people know where real information comes from.
And model the four steps yourself. When agents see you redirect a conversation to the person involved, they learn to do the same.
Be the steady voice in every market, especially the noisy ones.
Framework: This post is part of Action Produces Data, the coaching framework for consistent production: take the next right action, track it and let the results, not opinions, guide what you do next.
Want help applying this in your brokerage? Book a 30-minute conversation with Mark at calendly.com/mjsession.
