The Entrepreneur article below, “Science Has Confirmed That Honesty Really Is the Best Policy in the Workplace” (original article), discusses the ways that dishonesty can harm a business. The studies mentioned focus on how a climate of dishonesty can led to unhappy employees who ultimately leave the company. [Scroll down after reading the article for the rest of the discussion question.]
What experiences have you had with honesty or dishonesty in the workplace, as an employee or as an observer? In what situations would you argue that honesty is not the best policy? How much dishonesty is okay in the workplace? Is a little lie okay? What about not correcting a slight misunderstanding?
After thinking about the issues, take a stand that states your perspective on honesy in the workplace. Share a story from your experiences (with the names changed for privacy) or an imagined scenario that supports your stance. Alternately, you can engage in discussion with someone else, either explaining why you disagree and sharing a relevant workplace story OR explaining why you agree by sharing a story.