Don’t give more information than you need to when talking to authority.
Late to work? Say “sorry I’m late”. Don’t give a reason unless asked. Need to take a day off? Say “I’m taking Friday off” or “I am taking a sick day”. Unless asked for a reason don’t explain further.
Stopped by a cop for speeding? Answer plainly with one word sentences. “Do you know why I stopped you?” “No.”
People often dig themselves holes by offering too much information when simple information would have been sufficient. I’ve seen it happen in real time, where a coworker was denied time off because of the death of a pet because the boss didn’t think that was reason enough to take time off, when the coworker could have just said “family emergency” and explained no further.
Its a great little piece of advice that has served pretty well over the years.
I keep trying to tell this to the people I manage. I don’t need to know why you’re calling out. You have sick time, you can use it. I don’t need 3 paragraphs explaining why.
Don’t give more information than you need to when talking to authority.
Late to work? Say “sorry I’m late”. Don’t give a reason unless asked. Need to take a day off? Say “I’m taking Friday off” or “I am taking a sick day”. Unless asked for a reason don’t explain further.
Stopped by a cop for speeding? Answer plainly with one word sentences. “Do you know why I stopped you?” “No.”
People often dig themselves holes by offering too much information when simple information would have been sufficient. I’ve seen it happen in real time, where a coworker was denied time off because of the death of a pet because the boss didn’t think that was reason enough to take time off, when the coworker could have just said “family emergency” and explained no further.
Its a great little piece of advice that has served pretty well over the years.
I keep trying to tell this to the people I manage. I don’t need to know why you’re calling out. You have sick time, you can use it. I don’t need 3 paragraphs explaining why.
Still extremely relevant: Don’t talk to the police
Also, remember what day it is.
Every day is STFU Friday.