This question contains two parts; be sure to answer both. First, what is the grapevine, and when does the grapevine flourish and thrive? Second, suppose that you manage a small laboratory that develops fragrances (men's colognes, women's perfumes, unisex deodorants). The office grapevine is thriving; employees believe that the company is about to be purchased by a much larger firm, and that the result will be a move to another state, decreased benefits, and massive layoffs. While the company is under negotiations to be purchased, there will be no move or change in benefits based on the purchase. Layoffs could occur, but it's hard to say at this point. Describe several ways that you might get the grapevine under control.
What will be an ideal response?
The grapevine is the unofficial communication system of the informal organization, a network of gossip and rumor of what is called "employee language." It is never silent, and it is not always accurate. Managers should be aware that this is a major way that many employees acquire their information, and that it thrives when official communication is lacking. When official and unofficial communications conflict, employees are more likely to believe the grapevine. As one communications coach has put it, "Social media has put the grapevine on steroids. You can't outrun the rumor mill, and you can't kill it."
Students should explain how they might get the rumor mill under control at the laboratory.
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