Truth invites questions, lies resist them
In the workplace, how people react to being questioned can reveal a lot.
Just remember: Truth does not mind being questioned. A lie does not like being challenged.
When someone is being honest, they’re usually open to discussion, willing to clarify, and show curiosity about your concerns. But when something isn’t quite right, resistance tends to show up—sometimes subtly, sometimes not.
Here are a few behaviors to watch for:
Defensiveness or Over-Explaining: A truthful person might explain, but a dishonest one often feels the need to justify excessively.
Evasiveness: Watch for vague responses or frequent topic changes to avoid direct answers.
Inconsistency: Truth stays consistent. If their story keeps shifting, it’s worth paying attention.
Emotional Overreaction: Honest people typically stay composed, while deception can bring agitation, anger, or visible discomfort.
Body Language Cues: Fidgeting, avoiding eye contact, or unnatural pauses can signal unease.
Next time you're unsure about what you're hearing, pay attention to these signals and how they affect you.