I read a Dear Abby column recently, about a woman who does not like to participate in office chit-chat and gossip. This was of interest to me, because I am currently facing the same situation on my job. Because I do not participate in office gossip, I wonder if my co-workers think of me as anti-social and snobbish.
I have been able to make friends and acquaintances at prior companies, but for some reason, at my current company, it has been a little difficult. Some of the people in my department like to backbite and gossip about other co-workers. I think this type of gossip is mean-spirited and in my opinion childish. I also think it creates a toxic work environment. But when they are not gossiping, they are usually complaining or discussing things that are of no interest to me. So trying to join in something that does not interest me is rather difficult. I try to make some effort to participate in some conversations, but I think the damage is done and I feel that the only reason they are polite to me is because we have to work together. Dear Abby’s advice to the woman is “we usually get what we give in life.” I try to be nice, but I do not think that is enough. Since, I am not good at being fake and pretending, it has been a little tough. I do admit that I am kind of shy, so I usually do not approach people. Also, I am not getting a good vibe from some of these people, so it has been difficult to make connections. I am not trying to make excuses, because I really would like to improve in this area. I have started doing little things and started chatting about topics that might be of interest to everyone. In addition, I found a couple people that share some of my interests. It will take time, but hopefully I can make some effort in this area and improve the environment for my sake.
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