• I would be happy to take the assignment. But the truth is that this is the last thing you want to do. Instead of lying tell your boss: "I would be happy to help you with the task, but I need to find out more about what the task entails."
• My alarm clock did not go off. The truth is that you painted the town red last night. Lies on punctuality only work once or twice at most. If you repeatedly use the alarm clock or the traffic jam excuse, then your boss and others will catch on, and you will lose credibility. If you are generally a punctual person and happen be late once in a while, it is best to own up, apologise and promise not to do it again.
• I don’t have any questions. The truth is often that you have not understood the instructions and you don’t want to look stupid by asking for clarifications. And most of the time, the boss can see right through this. Be honest and admit that you are confused and that you will get your questions together and ask them later.
• Everything is under control. Actually, everything is not under control.
Instead of lying be bold and tell your boss: "I seem to have hit a rough patch; can I get your advice?" Admitting weakness and asking for help is a sign of maturity and strength.
• I have just seen your text message now. The truth is that you have been avoiding replying your colleagues or clients. It is much better not to say when you received the message, but just say: "I am responding to your message pronto".
• We shall meet again soon. You have no intention of getting together with that person ever. Instead of following this tired line simply say: "I am glad we had a chance to meet and I hope we shall do more business in future."
• I was thinking along similar lines. You must have said this at a workplace meeting just to appear agreeable. You may try a conciliatory and diplomatic line like: "What will make change happen is creativity in thinking and helping others to see a viable but different perspective."
• Oh yes, I have done that before. The truth is that you have no idea what this project is, or how to do it. If there is no way that you can learn everything you need in a reasonable time frame to do the assignment, be honest and ask for an extension or for the tasks to be transferred to someone else. Doing it is the way to assured failure and falling out with the boss you want to impress.
• I am sick. The truth is that you need a day off to attend to other things. But like the lie of lateness, you can only cheat about sickness only once or twice at most.
• This will only take a few hours. The truth is that the task you are about to embark on to please your boss will take forever. Instead be frank and tell the truth.
