A manager gives an employee overly-positive feedback to boost their confidence. A doctor gives a patient a too-rosy prognosis to foster hope. A government official conceals a security threat to prevent widespread panic.
When Is It OK to Tell a Well-Meaning Lie?
New research offers three guidelines.
September 04, 2018
Summary.
People often tell lies in an attempt to be kind or look out for others’ best interests. (“You look great in that outfit!”) When telling a well-intentioned lie requires someone to make an assumption about what’s in the recipient’s best interest, it’s called a paternalistic lie. In a series of experiments, researchers have found that the recipients of paternalistic lies often react badly to such behavior. To decide whether telling a well-meaning lie is likely to backfire or not, ask yourself if the person will really be better off in the long-run if you tell a white lie; check in with them on what they need from you; and make sure they know you have their best interests at heart.
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Feedback Essentials Course
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Give feedback that your employees can hear and use.
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New!
HBR Learning
Feedback Essentials Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Feedback Essentials. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Give feedback that your employees can hear and use.