The Science of Personality Podcast The Pros and Cons of Workplace Gossip
Jan 13, 2026
Allison Howell, the new CEO of Hogan Assessments with a rich background in communications, dives into the intriguing world of workplace gossip. She explores how gossip, often seen as harmful, can actually foster connections and serve as a vital communication tool. The discussion examines the dual nature of gossip—highlighting its potential for reputational harm while also underscoring its role in building trust and community in organizations. Allison also emphasizes the importance of leaders creating safe spaces for discussion to harness gossip's constructive aspects.
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Gossip As Sense-Making Channel
- Gossip is an informal, unofficial communication channel that helps people make sense of social relationships at work.
- Allison Howell says gossip often focuses on people and provides contextual clues missing from official channels.
Why Gossip Is Tainted
- Gossip carries a negative stigma partly because powerful actors label it morally suspect to control information.
- Allison Howell also highlights gendered perceptions and historical survival uses for gossip.
Italian Pole That Tracked News
- Ryan Sherman recounts Bertinoro's pole where travelers' rings determined who hosted them so elites could hear the latest gossip.
- He uses the story to show gossip historically served as the primary information channel before mass media.