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Five Lies It's OK to Tell at Work

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The Find: 99 percent of the time at work as elsewhere the best policy is honesty, but one author explains there are a few select scenarios where a white lie is appropriate.
The Source: Nicole Williams author of Girl on Top (yes, this is a business book) writing on the Huffington Post.

The Takeaway: When it comes to explaining yourself and your goals at work your knee jerk reaction should certainly be well-polished honesty (though not, of course, over-sharing). But Williams, author of several books aimed at young, ambitious career women, asserts that not every occasion calls for the truth and lays out five scenarios in which she gives you permission to tell a productive fib.

Your worth. It's reasonable to exaggerate your preferred salary amount by 10 to 20 percent, given of course that you're actually worth it. By showing that you value yourself, people will be more likely to consider a price closer to what you've asked for, and there will be more room to negotiate down.
Your future plans. Planning on starting a family in a year or two? Trying to launch your own business in your free time? Keep it to yourself. Employers want to think that your world revolves around them... Any talk of further aspirations plants the seed that they'll eventually need to replace you.
Your experience. Sure, you're a public speaker. The toasts you've given at the past four weddings have brought tears to people's eyes -- and that counts for something, doesn't it? Well, yes, actually it does. If you're confident about a skill but haven't necessarily been paid for it, then go ahead and add it to your resume. But the trick is that you have to be able to "make it real" if required.
Your health. Maybe you took some time off a few years back to deal with an illness, or you struggle with an occasional bout of depression. Anything regarding your health is strictly your business, and you're not obligated to tell anyone if they ask.
Your tardiness. You missed the most important meeting of the month because you forgot to set your alarm. Do you admit this to your boss? Absolutely not. In a situation like this, the truth can do way more harm than a little white lie. But beware, you can only use the "family emergency" and "flat tire" cards once or twice before people begin to call your bluff -- so play them wisely!

Those interested in more of Williams' ideas can also check out her earlier book Earn What You're Worth: A Widely Sophisticated Approach to Investing In Your Career-and Yourself. The Question: Do you agree with Williams that these sorts of lies are an acceptable part of professional life? (Image of liar card by Dyanna, CC 2.0)

posted by Jessica Stillman
July 16, 2009 @ 4:35 am

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