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The workplace can be very hectic and stressful.  Do you think it would benefit you to know when a co-worker or your boss was lying to you?

Below are a few tips from Chron.com of what to look for if you want to know if your boss is really considering you for that promotion.

There are various clues to note when evaluating truthfulness and research has identified some reliable deception detection clues such as facial expressions, body language and word use.  However, there is no one tell-tale sign that someone is being deceptive.

1. Normal Behavior

First, find the baseline (the way they normally talk, gesture and use body language) of the individual in question and then pay attention to any departures from that individual’s baseline.

2. Verbal Vs. Nonverbal

Watch for verbal  and nonverbal cues.  A shake of the head no when saying yes, is what we call a Hot-Spot and lets the skilled observer know that there is more to the story than is being told.  The smallest shifts in the facial expressions can give away our lies.  For instance, the muscle movements around the eyes can distinguish between and honest (Duchenne) an dishonest smile.

Microexpressions are involuntary facial expressions of emotion that flash on and off the face quickly less than 1/2 second.  They occur when people are consciously or unconsciously trying to conceal or repress what they are feeling.

Most people report that they don’t see microexpressions; however, research has shown that people can be taught to spot these with the proper training such as Humintell’s micro and subtle facial expression online training tools.

3.  Body language

Hunched shoulders can be a sign of distress or discomfort and someone who avoids using any hand gestures (if that is different then their baseline behavior) could be trying to deceive you.

 4.  Practice Practice, Practice

Past research has revealed that most of us think we are really good at spotting lies but in reality we are no better than chance (50%).  However, the more training you have the better your percentage is at determining if someone is telling the truth.

 If you want to brush up on your skills revisit your training  OR 
Purchase a more advanced training /supplement such as our Evaluating Truthfulness Webinar (NEW ONE, APRIL 27)