Sales Truths: Gossip Can Severely Injure Your Business

WHY IT’S TRUE Harmful rumors, whispers and gossip can reduce trust among your employees, adversely affect overall morale and ultimately impact their productivity and your business.

PLAN OF ACTION Set an example and don’t get caught up in it yourself. When staff members are about to spread gossip, tell them “Let me get my pen and paper, I want to make sure I get this right.” Or perhaps say something like “Gee, and they always say such nice things about you.” Address it firmly, frankly and fairly in your store meetings. Gossip and rumors can quickly get out of control. Put the brakes on now, before the real damage spreads to your customers.

[span class=note]This story is from the April 2011 edition of INSTORE[/span]