I am not sure where shading the truth got started, but it is certainly noticeable. I understand that oftentimes, telling the truth is the hardest thing to do. (insert small violin here)

But puh-lease, make honesty part of who you are. Once you get known as a “truth teller,” particularly to power, you have it made.

The things that I hear that really gripe me are excuses that are nothing but lies. I would much rather hear an honest but truthful explanation of why something is late, why you missed the meeting, or what someone said, etc. Do not think for a minute that your managers cannot tell when you are shading the truth. Maybe it will work for a while, even. But longterm, it won’t and it will impact what people say about you, and your chances for promotion.

I am telling you we can tell who the truthful ones are, and which ones aren’t. Be the former.