The Value of Lying

We see clients avoiding the truth -- what they tell us and what they tell others -- all the time. What's the price?
http://www.highperforg.com/2009/11/price-for-lying.html

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Permalink Reply by Mike Van Horn on November 20, 2009 at 6:29pm: George

Your post title is "The Value of Lying" but when I click on the link, I see an article entitled "The Price of Lying." Seems like opposite meanings.

I'm a contrarian on this one, so I'm sticking with the "value of lying." A couple of examples, not from business, just to get things going:

"Honey, does this dress make me look fat?"

"You're not planning to do anything special for my birthday, are you?" she asks, when you are planning a surprise party.

Anyone who thinks that, in the interest of honesty, you should fess up to your wife on these questions doesn't live on the same planet I do.

So, what do these examples say about business situations we encounter as consultants?

I would be interested in hearing what others say about this.

mvh; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by George Moskoff on November 23, 2009 at 8:42am: For me, it says that I have to be very careful about what I say and...what I don't say. I'm working with a non-profit; totally dysfunctional Board. Doesn't show prudence in decision making; has a hard time making decisions. Can't talk to the ED. Do I tell them they're a mess? I think that would scare them and...I need them thinking, more creative, empowered. I'm steering, in some ways, the aircraft carrier: small turns. Trim tab, as it were.; ▶ Reply to This