Lecture on Backbiting and Workplace Environment

Introduction

• Presenter: Leonardo Silva
• Focus: Impact of negative rumors and unhealthy working environments.

Key Points

Impact of Negative Information

• Negative rumors can significantly affect perceptions of a person.
• Examples of rumors: incompetence, dishonesty, inappropriate behavior.

Professional Experience

• As a psychotherapist in occupational health, Silva has observed many suffering from toxic work environments.
• Traditional interventions (conflict resolution, group discussions, etc.) often fail to create lasting change.

Investigation into Workplace Issues

• Discovering the prevalence of backbiting (talking negatively about absent colleagues) as a significant issue.
• Definition: Talking negatively about a third person who is not present.

Socrates' Triple-Filter Test

• Truth: Is it true?
• Goodness: Is it good?
• Usefulness: Is it useful?
• Story: Socrates' interaction with an acquaintance, highlighting the importance of these filters.

Prevalence and Reasons for Backbiting

• Both men and women engage in backbiting.
• Reasons: Feelings of self-elevation, appearing interesting due to possessing 'juicy' information.

Desire for a No-Backbiting Environment

• High interest in working in environments without gossip.
• Link between adult behavior and children learning to bully.

Solution: Gossip 2016

Steps to Implement

1. Gather a Group: Collect a reasonable number of participants.
2. Acknowledge the Problem: Ask if backbiting occurs; most will agree.
3. Define Backbiting: Use the triple-filter test to define it.
4. Desire for Change: Ask if they want a no-backbiting workplace; most will agree.
5. Commitment to Change: Create a visible commitment, e.g., sign a pledge.
6. Weekly Check-ins: Regularly review progress in meetings.

Outcomes of Implementation

• Successful in reducing absenteeism and sick leave.
• Minimization of workplace fractionation and increased productivity.
• Over 250 CEOs have verified its effectiveness.

Broader Impact

• Adults need to be role models to prevent bullying among children.
• Stopping negative talk at home teaches children not to backbite.

Conclusion

• Emphasizing the importance of new consciousness and commitment to change.
• Encouragement to adopt these practices for a healthier work and social environment.

Thank you for your attention.