Is it ever ok to lie to your boss about a job interview?
Contrary to popular opinion, honesty isn't always the best policy – or is it?
If you're currently employed and searching for a new job, is it ethical to lie to your boss about interviewing for other positions?
There are several factors to consider when navigating this situation. For instance, is the new position within the same company? Would you be leaving on good terms or with some lingering tension? Are you looking for a new job due to a toxic work environment, difficult colleagues, or a desire for career growth?
These are just a few examples of what might influence your decision to look for a new job. However, one thing's clear: leaving for the wrong reasons can lead to disappointment.
Returning to the original question: is it ethical to lie to your boss about going for job interviews? Some people may answer "yes" without hesitation, while others, with a stronger sense of conscience, might disagree.
But what if you approach this question from a managerial perspective – how would you feel if an employee lied to you about going for an interview?
It's a tricky situation because if you speak the truth, some bosses might take it personally and make life difficult out of spite.
In 2018, Jonathan Cruz Sanchez, a human resources professional, discussed this dilemma in a LinkedIn article. His response was simple: "It depends."
Sanchez pointed out that there are many ways to lie in this scenario – such as taking a sick day to attend an interview. However, doing this could backfire at some point.
"Assuming you applied for different jobs and are called to interview for every single one of them, you will eventually run out of sick days and look suspicious."
He also warned that lying about an interview could have long-term consequences.
"If an employee lies about the interview and eventually gets hired, you might automatically burn bridges with that employer and/or supervisor. This is especially bad for any employee because if things go south with your new job (you don’t like your new job, you get laid off, company restructure), you virtually won’t have any chances to get hired back by your previous employer."
Read more: What's your "Office Olympic" specialty?
Sanchez suggested that open communication and honesty are the best approaches when navigating this situation.
While he acknowledges that not all employers are understanding or open to viewing things from their employees' perspectives, it’s important to proceed with caution when seeking a new job while still employed.
Leaving your employer on good terms should always be a priority, no matter how they treat you. Practicing transparency ensures that, should the new opportunity not work out, you leave the door open for a potential return to your current job.
Remember, the grass isn't always greener on the other side.
The best tool in the workplace is communication. If you have a good relationship with your current employer and/or supervisor, but you want to look for another job for any reason, the best thing to do is explain them the reason why you are considering other job opportunities. Any good employer or supervisor will take this as an act of good faith, because they will appreciate your honesty and straightforwardness, and they might even go the extra mile and raise your salary (if that’s the reason you’re looking for another job) or offer some flexibility in your work just so they can keep you, they might surprise you! Also by doing this, you leave in good terms with your employer, and if by any reason it does not go well in your new job, there’s a lot of chances they will consider taking you back if they still have an opening for you.
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