I recently was part of a group discussing gossip. Someone asked the question, "Is gossip always bad?" Everyone in the group expressed their opinions that gossip is always harmful. I agree, but not entirely. While I think gossip in general is wrong, I think listening to office gossip can sometimes be helpful. For example, you should listen to rumors about an impending layoff. If these rumors are true, you won't be caught off guard. Rumors about an employee dealing with some personal issues may bring to light why he hasn't been working to his full potential lately and may allow his boss to cut him a little slack until you can determine if this rumor is true. Read "Gossip: Does It Have a Place At Work?" to find out how to make the office grapevine work for you.