Source: Pixabay.

Does it sometimes feel like your workplace hasn't evolved beyond middle school?

Gossip can be a detrimental force in any workplace. But as Jonathan Alpert write at Inc.com, there is good gossip and bad gossip.

Knowing the difference, and how to manage it, can improve your workplace's morale, productivity and even turnover, Alpert writes.

Make a distinction between positive and negative gossip. If it's the latter, and you're the subject of it, then here's what you should do:

1. Calm yourself down.

Addressing gossip when you're upset and emotions are running high will not yield the best results. Take some deep breaths, call a friend or significant other, gather facts, and try to relax.

2. Confront the gossiper.

Present the information you have and ask the person to explain it.

3. Watch your language.

Using the word "gossip" is negative and inflammatory and might fuel the situation. Instead suggest that there's "misinformation" out there and ask for clarification.

4. Invite the suspected gossiper or gossipers to go to you with any questions they may have or if you can help to clarify any information.

This is a good way to both put people on notice and let them know you're aware of their gossiping and also to address whatever the situation is--it shows you're not shying away from it or hiding anything.

5. Use humor.

If need be, use it to add some levity to what might be a tense situation. For example, if there are rumors about an improper relationship, you might say, "I heard that I've been dating our boss." "Will you be coming to the engagement party after he proposes?"

6. Consult human resources.

Ultimately the human resources department creates and enforces company policies and most include a statement about gossip. Enlist their help and know they are there to support you and limit liability.

If you are a manager and suspect gossip in the workplace, here's what to do:

7. Meet with the alleged perpetrator.

Do this in confidence and not in view of other colleagues. That means the meeting should occur in a private office (not a conference room) because that could spark more rumors and gossip.

8. Educate the person(s).

Review with the employee what gossip is, how it impacts people and the overall department, and the company's policy. Also talk to the person about the ramifications of such talk and what will happen if he or she continues.

9. Meet with the department or team to address gossip.

Make it part of a larger, perhaps regularly scheduled meeting. This will lessen the drama around it. Review the differences between positive and negative gossip and remind people to follow company policy. Encourage positive gossip.

10. Model desired behavior.

As a manager, make sure you're not guilty of talking about people behind their backs. Rather, be professional, keep any water cooler discussions clean and free of any sensitive topics.