What's your name again?

Majority of us have them.  It could be based on our appearance, the shortened version of our name, or even our last name, the city or neighborhood we are from, something a boyfriend or girlfriend has given us, or something we were given from childhood or in our adult life.

YES - a nickname!   How prevalent are nicknames in the workplace I thought, I mean I use them for coworkers and other colleagues and they have been used in dun, dun, dun DUN, not the nicest fashion.  You could say that they are more-so created so that you talk in code about them.  I know its best to not talk about people, hence if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all, but it happens sometimes. We all have coworkers who get on our nerves and having to work in such close quarters, nicknames allow you to speak of and vent about them when they are possibly near.

A couple that I utilized over my work history range from the person's last name or initials like "The NAG", or a physical descriptor like "Belly", "Shorty" or even "Red Face".  Now, of course, some may have some nicknames for me that are not that becoming, but I've never heard one yet.... I have been called "Precious" and I like that one!

If you would like to read more about "Nicknames in the Workplace" or if you want to confirm what nicknames you can use in the office or which ones to keep under wraps (inappropriate nicknames can spur lawsuits regarding discrimination!) give google a try.  I found that although I like my office nickname of "Precious" it is inappropriate and shouldn't be used.

XOXO Gossip Girl

So today I engaged in some workplace gossip, not trying to, but completely walked into it (which I normally do).  I have a rule to not go seeking out gossip at work.  Unless it is with people I completely trust - which are very few, but in that case we are just trying to stay in the loop of what's going on in the office.

Check out my 5 office gossip rules before you listen if you dare.  (Everyone may have their own, but these work for me!)

1. There are people who just like to stir up the pot.  I will not lie, I like to know what's going on with other people's business, I do.  But you must recognize when someone is being plain hateful or manipulative and trying to add fuel to the fire.  Once recognized - RUN.
2. Stay away from the trouble makers who may make the gossip session look like you started the whole rumor mill - when in fact you were just trying to find your missing fax! 
3. Try to limit or refrain from questions.  Take in the information that is volunteered to you and never inquire further.  This makes you look bad and can work against you. 
4. Stay away from it altogether if you can - stop the perpetrator in their tracks, so that the spewing doesn't even start.
5. If you can not stop it, take in the information, nod or shake your head in good timing and end the conversation telling the gossiper - "Well it'll all work itself out" or "that's too bad" or "maybe it's not as it seems".  All of these responses are very good neutral and deflective responses that can keep you from getting sucked into nonsense.