Last updated on Jul 15, 2024

Your colleague is spreading misinformation about your project. How will you regain control of the narrative?

When misinformation about your project starts spreading, especially from a colleague, it can feel like a wildfire threatening to consume your hard work. The key to regaining control of the narrative is not to panic. Instead, you must approach the situation with a clear, strategic mind. Misinformation can stem from misunderstandings or deliberate intent, but regardless of the source, it's your responsibility to correct the course. The following steps will guide you through the process of reclaiming the story of your project and ensuring that the truth is at the forefront.

1 Assess Impact

Before taking any action, evaluate the extent of the misinformation's reach. Determine who has been affected and how it may have influenced their perception of your project. This step is crucial because it helps you understand the severity of the situation and tailor your response accordingly. If the misinformation has only reached a few people, a simple correction might suffice. However, if it's widespread, a more robust communication strategy will be necessary.

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Madhavi Goswami

CBSE Awardee | Principal Cambridge School Srinivaspuri | Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert | Microsoft Certified Educator | Innovation Ambassador | RTOC-Niti Ayog
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To regain control of the narrative when a colleague spreads misinformation about your project, start by gathering accurate information and facts to counter the misinformation. Approach your colleague calmly and privately to discuss the issue, clarifying any misunderstandings and providing correct details about the project. If necessary, involve your supervisor or a mediator to resolve the situation objectively. Communicate proactively with others who may have heard the misinformation, ensuring they understand the accurate information and your perspective. Finally, focus on maintaining professionalism and transparency in your interactions to rebuild trust and ensure accurate communication going forward.

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2 Gather Facts

Once you've assessed the impact, compile all the accurate information regarding your project. This should include project goals, progress reports, and any other relevant data that counters the misinformation. Having a solid foundation of facts is essential because it serves as the backbone of your narrative. You'll use this information to inform your colleagues and stakeholders about the true state of your project.

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Nina Buik, ACC, CPC, ELI-MP

Principal Consultant & Coach
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Before you can go into narrative management, you need to understand a few facts about what information is being shared: 1. How much of what is being shared is actually what was originally transmitted. 2. Explore why the misinformation is being shared. What could the underlying agenda be for the person sharing it. 3. Once you have additional facts, set up a meeting with the person who started sharing the misinformation. It may go like this, "How do you think the project's going?" The answer to this question will serve as a starting point for the dialogue that will follow. 4. When you can get to the bottom of 'Why', ask the individual if they would be open to a joint town hall or team meeting to clear up the confusion. Get buy in!

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3 Open Dialogue

Initiate a conversation with the colleague who is spreading the misinformation. It's important to approach this dialogue with professionalism and the intent to understand their perspective. Ask why they hold their beliefs and provide them with the correct information you've gathered. This step is not about confrontation but about clearing up any misunderstandings and preventing further spread of inaccuracies.

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Paula Dianezi

Communications Strategist | Internal Communication | Engagement Initiatives | Community Outreach | Events Design | Change Management
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It's important to listen to those involved to get a clear understanding of what's being said. Evaluate the reason for this perception. Talking to the colleague is important because it could put the project at risk.

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4 Communicate Clearly

Develop a clear and concise message that corrects the misinformation and reaffirms the objectives and achievements of your project. This message should be shared through appropriate corporate communication channels such as team meetings, emails, or internal newsletters. Ensuring that your message is easily understandable will help to quickly dispel any confusion and reinforce the accurate narrative.

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5 Monitor Feedback

After disseminating the correct information, monitor the reactions and feedback from your colleagues and stakeholders. Pay close attention to whether the misinformation persists or if there are new questions and concerns arising. This ongoing monitoring allows you to respond promptly to any additional misunderstandings and maintain control over the project's narrative.

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6 Stay Proactive

Finally, stay proactive in your communications about the project. Regular updates and transparent reporting can prevent future incidents of misinformation. By establishing yourself as the reliable source of information for your project, you reduce the risk of others creating narratives that don't align with reality. Proactivity also demonstrates leadership and commitment to the project's success.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Your colleague is spreading misinformation about your project. How will you regain control of the narrative?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Impact

2 Gather Facts

3 Open Dialogue

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Monitor Feedback

6 Stay Proactive

7 Here’s what else to consider

Corporate Communications

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Your colleague is spreading misinformation about your project. How will you regain control of the narrative?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess Impact

2 Gather Facts

3 Open Dialogue

4 Communicate Clearly

5 Monitor Feedback

6 Stay Proactive

7 Here’s what else to consider

Corporate Communications

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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