In organizations, many decisions, alliances and judgments do not emerge from formal processes, but from informal conversations that flow through offices, chats and everyday interactions.
Gossip, rumors and shared narratives form a parallel communication system that directly shapes organizational climate and the reputation of individuals, teams and companies.

This session offers managers a framework to understand how these dynamics operate beneath the surface: when gossip acts as a social glue and a mechanism for group regulation, when it signals latent tensions or leadership gaps, and when it turns into a reputational risk.
Reputation thus emerges as a form of social capital — not what we are, but what others believe they know — capable of influencing choices, collaboration and distance.

Drawing on psychological, anthropological and organizational perspectives, Massimo Picozzi guides participants in understanding the power of words and informal narratives. Through case studies and practical exercises, the session helps participants recognize their effects and dynamics, and reflect on how to manage their impact within organizational contexts.