The conversation stops when you enter the room. Colleagues shoot sidelong glances as you pass. The office is abuzz but nobody is talking to you about it—because you’re at the center of the rumors

Sometimes at one point in our careers, we've had to face this kind of situation. This situation if not properly managed will have a serious or catastrophic effect on your productivity at your place of work. I for one hate attention, I have always tried as much as possible to deflect any situation that will bring me to the public glare of my colleagues. But as much as I tried to do that, right from when I was in schools to my places of work, it just doesn't work out. I have always been singled out either for honors or for additional responsibilities. This will inevitably bring me to the fore of public discussions among my colleagues. They will say "he is too young or not experienced or just being favored unnecessarily".

Office gossip can be a welcome distraction. It just can be hard to know what to do when you become the focal point. Overreacting or saying the wrong thing may fan the flames, but ignoring some kinds of gossip can damage your reputation or even career.

When in this situation,
1. Learn to drop the rumour jokingly as a side talk about yourself and clarify it.
2. Let it slide, they will get tired of it.
3. Don't be emotional about it, it should not affect your self esteem.
4. Protect your reputation by displaying your skills before them, Trust me this works like magic.
5. Try and maintain strong alliances at the 3 levels in your organization i.e 1. Your level 2. Below your level 3. Above your level. They will have your back when you leave the room

Feel free to add more.