How to Address a Rumor

Check the facts. Based on the information you've gathered, use your calendar to help you recall the date in which the incident supposedly took place. Try to remember your words and actions in the situation. This reflection is to help you confirm your role in the matter versus what was insinuated.

Tips & Warnings

• Until you're ready to address the rumor find topics to talk about with the people around you. Be prepared to talk about a sports game, movie or book you just read. This will help you avoid isolation, which many people associate with guilt.
• Refrain from searching out the rumor starter, he will only deny or spread more falsehoods once he is discovered.
• Stay away from gossip groups even after your rumor is old, forgotten news. People who consistently socialize with gossipers will find themselves as repeated victims of rumors.

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Rumours - gossip
a piece of news or a story passed from person to person, which may not be true

Gossip Chains

• Most rumors start out as simple gossip. Typically, a rumor does not begin with malicious intent, but instead as a form of speculation. Many people will make blanket statements about what they think has occurred in a given situation. This is then passed on. "Stacy thinks that Roger will get the job." Although Stacy likely has no authority on the situation and her statement was made in speculation alone, the rumor mill has started, and before long, it is well known that Roger is getting the job whether he has applied for the position or not.

Read more: How Does a Rumor Spread? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4779867_a-rumor-spread.html#ixzz1dqTcIqFY

Rumours

Dictionary.com defines a rumor as "a story or statement in general circulation without confirmation or certainty as to facts." When a rumor is told about you, regardless of the nature of the report your response should be the same: a calm, well-thought-out plan of action. Remember that after a rumor is started, your reaction could cause it to spread further.