Managing organizational dysfunction is already a tough task. And, engaging adult learners can make it even more challenging. As a result, finding innovative solutions to overcome these dysfunctions and set the organization on a positive path can be quite challenging. Incorporating the arts into our conventional training methods can broaden our approach and offer new solutions to overcome these obstacles. Therefore, from the literature review and my personal experiences, I would recommend a group experience containing this type of arts-based teaching methodology to assist in resetting a dysfunctional team when dealing with excessive gossip in the workplace.

A fundamental goal for any organization is to have employees that can work efficiently and creatively together in a forward direction. High-performing organizations thrive on employees being creative and innovative in their work; however, these differences can be seen as disputes and conflicts and can slip into what feels like personal attacks on each other and fuel workplace gossip. Employees with the skills and tools to become better problem solvers and proactively respond to gossip would be a win-win.

Given the pervasive nature of gossip and its prevalence in the workplace, as research has shown that 90% of people engage in gossip (Grosser, Lopez Kidwell, Labianca, & Ellwardt, 2012), it is an activity that every manager needs to understand and learn to deal with it."No type of gossip seems to travel as far or be discussed as much as when it concerns incivility. Incivility has a contagion-like effect that leaves negative emotion in its wake."[7]

While it is "essentially impossible to eliminate gossip by imposing a simple edict or anti-gossip policy…its pervasiveness in organizations means that it must provide some value to compensate for the risk." [9] Thus, managers and employees must understand the effects of gossip on a much deeper level if they hope to manage it effectively.

Workplace assessments are crucial for identifying and addressing issues that affect employee engagement, productivity, and overall organizational performance. By understanding the root cause of the problem and creating a supportive workplace culture, organizations can create a more successful and sustainable workplace.