According to bestselling author Simon Sinek, venting at work is acceptable, but gossiping isn't. He emphasizes that gossiping can make you a part of the problem.

Simon Sinek, a leadership expert and bestselling author, advises against confusing gossip with venting.

"According to Sinek, talking to a colleague about your boss and expressing your frustrations is not inherently harmful, but it can become gossip if you validate those feelings."

In the video, Kuburic explained that venting is "you-focused" and gossiping is "other-focused." For instance, expressing your annoyance about a demanding project is venting, while spreading negative comments about a coworker's abilities or work habits is gossiping.

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If your comments ever reach their subjects, you'll create drama for yourself, potentially damaging your professional reputation and other interpersonal relationships.

According to Sinek, venting can strengthen relationships in the workplace by making you feel heard and building bonds with your colleagues.

Some workplace experts do recommend 'good gossip'

Not every workplace expert says gossiping is entirely bad.

Elena Martinescu, who studies workplace gossip at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, claims that there is such a thing as "good gossip." According to her, any conversation about someone who is not present, including discussions about how much you like another colleague or something you find interesting about a member of your team, falls under the umbrella term of gossip. Martinescu shared this with CNBC Make It in 2022.

Martinescu advised that gossiping with colleagues should only be done with those you trust, otherwise, your private conversation could become public.

Discussing sensitive topics with coworkers could benefit your career, according to Kelsey McKinney, host of Defector Media's "Normal Gossip" podcast.

"According to McKinney, gossip is a powerful tool for people who are not in management. It allows them to form alliances, whether union-based or simply sharing salaries, and can help them get what they deserve and negotiate for it better."

Everyone needs a work friend

Sinek, Martinescu, and McKinney all emphasize the importance of having someone to talk to in the workplace. Such friendships can enhance happiness, productivity, and satisfaction.

A study by University of Georgia management researchers in March revealed that excessive venting to friends can make you appear less competent and more annoying.

"Jennifer Gunsaullus, a sociologist and relationship expert, stated in Make It in June that feeling self-absorbed is unattractive. People who put up walls and act like they don't want to be understood are not likable or warm, which makes it difficult to spend more time with them."

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