Thirsty For Company News?

NEW HAVEN — It may come as a surprise, but employees huddled around the water cooler generally are not fueling the company rumor mill. In fact, in a recent nationwide poll, nearly 40 percent of executives said these discussions focus on business-related matters. Twelve percent of respondents said sports, politics and personal issues were the main topics, while office gossip comprised just 9 percent of the response.

The survey was developed by OfficeTeam and conducted by an independent research firm. The poll includes responses from 150 executives with the nation’s 1,000 largest companies.

“Impromptu conversations that arise outside of a traditional workspace – in the lunch room or at the water cooler, for example – often spawn valuable ideas,” said Diane Domeyer, executive director of OfficeTeam. “The relaxed setting allows employees to let their guard down and offer opinions more freely. It can also lead to better camaraderie and collaboration.”

Ms Domeyer cautions, however, to exercise common sense when speaking in public areas. “Should your conversation become lengthy or sensitive in nature, consider moving to a conference room to finish the discussion yet maintain the spontaneity.”