How to Deal with a Lying Co-Worker

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Step 1: Evaluate the lies
Consider the nature of the lies. Are they fairly harmless (he claims he dates supermodels) or are they destructive (he blames you for his mistakes)?

Tip
If you suspect someone is lying to you, keep asking questions. The more he explains, the more likely he'll trip himself up.

Step 2: Keep a paper trail
Start keeping a paper trail. Get him to send instructions in email, so he can't claim he told you to do something when he didn't.

Step 3: Confront the liar
The next time you catch him in a lie, confront him—calmly and privately, but specifically. If he knows you're on to him, he may think twice about doing it again.

Tip
Watch his body language. Liars fidget, touch their faces and mouths, look down while talking, and blink less.

Step 4: Talk to your supervisor
He's still lying? Go to your supervisor with proof of his deeds.

Step 5: Go to human resources
If the supervisor doesn't intervene, and his lying is harming your performance and the company, go to Human Resources with your concern.

Did You Know?
In 1998, reporter Stephen Glass was fired by The New Republic for fabricating quotes, events, and sources. It was later determined that more than half of his stories contained fabrications.