While honesty is a core value in many organizations, the Express Employment Professionals-Harris Poll reveals that excessive honesty can have unintended consequences. With 86% of U.S. hiring managers claiming their companies foster open communication, the survey sheds light on how overly candid behavior can impact productivity, relationships, and professional reputations.
Key Insights from the Survey
1. Workplace Environments Foster Openness
- Safe Communication:
- 86% of hiring managers say their organizations promote open communication.
- 95% believe employees can discuss concerns with anyone in the company, primarily managers (68%) and peers (57%).
- Personal Issues at Work:
- 70% of hiring managers think employees should discuss personal issues if they affect work.
- However, 39% struggle to help employees navigate personal challenges, and 67% feel such discussions hinder productivity.
2. The Dangers of Excessive Honesty
- What is “Too Honest”?
Over half of hiring managers (54%) believe employees can be “too honest,” citing:- Sharing personal or sensitive information (65%).
- Criticizing the company or colleagues (53%).
- Gossiping or spreading rumors (51%).
- Venting about colleagues or projects (46%).
- Examples of Overly Honest Behavior:
- Negative comments about leadership: “Called the manager a loser who doesn’t pull her weight.”
- Oversharing personal life: “An employee discussed their extramarital affair.”
- Inappropriate remarks: “Told me they had a crush on me.”
- Professional Impact:
- 65% of hiring managers believe excessive honesty damages an employee’s reputation.
- 71% of job seekers agree that “too much honesty” can harm their professional standing.
3. Generational Perspectives on Honesty
- Generational Divide:
- Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to view honesty as important compared to Gen X and boomers.
- 89% of all job seekers emphasize the importance of teaching younger generations when and how to be honest at work.
- Productivity Concerns:
- 65% of job seekers believe discussing personal matters at work reduces productivity.
Balancing Honesty and Professionalism
To create a harmonious workplace, both employees and employers should aim to balance honesty with discretion:
For Employees:
- Discern What to Share: Keep personal matters limited to trusted confidantes outside of work.
- Constructive Feedback: Frame criticisms as solutions rather than complaints.
- Avoid Gossip: Focus on facts, not rumors.
For Employers:
- Training and Support: Only 39% of companies provide resources to help managers handle employees’ personal issues. Invest in training to equip leaders with the skills to navigate these challenges.
- Set Boundaries: Encourage professional boundaries to ensure productivity isn’t hindered by personal oversharing.
- Foster Constructive Communication: Provide systems that facilitate open yet respectful dialogue.
Expert Advice
“While honesty is crucial, the wisdom to communicate thoughtfully is equally important,” says Bill Stoller, CEO of Express Employment International. “Discerning what to share and when is key to maintaining professionalism and productivity.”
The fine line between honesty and professionalism is pivotal in fostering a productive and respectful workplace. Employers must create environments that balance openness with discretion while empowering employees to communicate constructively.
