How to Build Credibility at Work

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I agree whole-heartedly with being honest. I sometimes wonder, though, if being too honest is having a negative impact on how my boss feels about me. Many times I have to think about whether or not to say something to my "big boss" when my "immediate boss" gives me misinformation which I'm called down for. I don't think my immediate boss does this intentionally. However, when I do say to my big boss that my immediate boss told me to do that, she doesn't back me by saying, "yes, I told her that", in order to defend me. I'm wondering what I should do in this situation. It looks like I'm lying and don't know if I should stand up for the truth or let it go. This does happen often though and I don't know if I could handle not saying anything that often. I am bluntly honest and what you see is what you get. You will always know where you stand with me. Is this bad?

Too honest of LA 9:17PM November 13, 2009

As a HR communicator, I find it best to overcommunicate often. Over time, my messages get heard above the fray of other HR commotion and has resulted in a shift from being reactive to proactive. But it doesn't happen overnight.

HR Commie of VT 5:19PM June 25, 2009

Great advice Alison. Many of us know that lying is an unwise practic in life including the workplace. Taking that concept a "step further" as you put it to develop true credibility requires much more diligence and integrity. Of course, the positive impact of credibility and integrity on one's career and reputation are immeasurable.
Thanks for a great article!

Jason J Denis of WA 4:11PM June 24, 2009

I've never applied these principles, with the exception of my current position, and because I've adhered so strongly to them (though I've never actually seen them laid out this way) I'm secure in my knowledge that my feedback is taken seriously, that my work is highly regarded, and that my boss knows he won't get blindsided with bad news about my mistakes. It takes a long time, but once you have this type of credibility, life at work is made easier by the confidence that others place in your work that it will be done, and done right.

Anon of CO 10:46PM June 23, 2009

From my experience, some people only like the truth when it's not inconvenient to them. I worked as an admin suppport among many other things doing time sheets for teachers and updating eligible for financial support client files. Surprisingly, the management didn't like me noticing that some staff claimed extra prep hours even when being in the hospital or my looking into old, favorite student's file and finding out that he was actually working when supposely being in a class full-time, or whatever. They let me go on the premises of me "not being a fit" with the notion that I was "after everyone". I was just doing my job for which I was hired and paid. This much for integrity and honesty.

N 6:19PM June 23, 2009

In a perfect world this would work. Supervisors, directors, managers and the corporate world--all give lip service to honesty.
The trouble is that when I did come forward, they all smoothly assured me that everything would be alright…yeah, for them! They used my services while they needed them, and when the first slump in business for the year occurred, I was fired, with no warning.
I asked why I was being fired, when had received top ratings on all my reviews and had not been coached, received a pin or any warning at all. I was told that the files had been sent back and that as the “client” wanted me gone, there was nothing that could be done.
I marched myself over to HR where, after being researched, the decision on firing me was overturned. This means I can be rehired by another section of the company, but the other sections pay much less for similar positions.
My take on this, though, is that I have a great new opportunity to finish my degree and perhaps I'll even find a company that actually walks what it talks. Just be aware of the risks. If you’re honest, in a dishonest workplace, you become cannon fodder. So much for honesty!

Marilyn Chatmon of TX 12:53AM June 23, 2009

Along with "Never,ever lie" I would add always speak the truth. People who ask for and rely upon your opinion usually want the unvarnished truth, not what you think that they want to hear. Building a reputation for providing balanced and accurate information is important. At times this may require a bit of courage, but in the long term it's worth the investment in developing your credibility.

raymund mitchell of NC 8:40PM June 22, 2009

It never ceases to amaze me that it's even necessary to write a blog that says "admit it when you mess up," "ask questions instead of guess," and "do what you say you'll do when you say you'll do it."
I can't tell you how many surprised managers I've encountered who seemed floored that I came to them and said "hey, I made this mistake and think I ought to handle it (or did handle it) this way, is there anything else you'd like me to do?"
Great article that ought to be required reading for people at every level of an organization.

Kelly O of TX 8:03PM June 22, 2009

I would love to work in an enviornment where this was practiced by the majority... I think if leaders in a company followed your above suggestions, it would make a huge difference in the workplace.
http://www.isearchbusiness.com

Jlea of NV 2:00PM June 22, 2009