Billionaires Ray Dalio and Richard Branson hate workplace gossip—but men who do it could face a steeper career penalty than women, study finds
New research found that men who gossip are perceived as less competent and less qualified for leadership roles than women who engage in the same behavior.
A recent study from the University of Iowa and the University of New Mexico reveals that men who engage in workplace gossip may face a more severe career penalty compared to women. According to the researchers, men are judged harsher for gossiping than women. This conclusion was reached after analyzing three separate studies, including an observation of 272 undergraduate students and two online experiments with around 450 U.S. workers.
The findings indicate that both genders who gossip are perceived as less competent and less qualified for leadership roles, but men experience a steeper decline in these areas. The researchers suggest that the gender double standard surrounding gossip may stem from traditional expectations of male behavior. While gossip can foster a sense of belonging and connection, particularly in hybrid work environments, men who engage in gossip are more likely to be penalized in their careers.
Prominent business leaders like Richard Branson and Ray Dalio have publicly expressed their disapproval of workplace gossip, stating that it is counterproductive and should not be tolerated. Personal finance expert Dave Ramsey even goes as far as to fire employees for being gossipers.
Written by urgent.news from Fortune's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
