Surviving the Workday

I listen to rumors. There. I’ve said it.

I don’t necessarily believe them mind you, but I just about always listen.

The Truth about Office Rumors suggests that most office rumors are true. So you might as well listen. Here’s how:

• Have real conversations with people your colleagues don’t. Assistants, receptionists, the people in the graphics services department and the cafeteria have unparalleled access to information about what’s going on throughout the company. They’re the central nervous system of the place. They’ve seen all the documents and know who’s meeting with who about what. Yet for the most part, they’re treated as invisible — which is short-sighted (not to mention condescending and rude). Talk to them. Thank them for their hard work. Be sincere. Treat them like humans. You’ll be happier for it — and amazed at how much they know.
• Reach outside your day job. Have regular conversations with people in different offices, departments, roles, levels. If you don’t, you’ll be missing a lot of information flow.
• Share information and resources. The best way to get information is to give it, and that doesn’t mean gossiping, that means offering a hand. If you take time to walk through