One way to deal with work pressure is to work less. More companies are offering a 30 hour work week as an option for some of its employees, finding that the shorter week improved product quality, reduced turnover, and caused workers to return to work with fresh ideas, renewed energy, less resentment about missing time with family, and greater efficiency while on the job. There is no conflict between doing the right thing and the bottom line. Human relationships are built on trust, and telling the truth is part of the foundation for trust. Experts estimate that more than a third of all job applications include some degree of distortion of the truth.
Employees lie to their bosses out of fear of punishment.
And workers lie to each other to exaggerate accomplishments and minimize failure. Even Presidents lie to protect themselves and project a good image. Honesty is generally the best policy. British Petroleum is working with the Environmental Defense Fund to reduce carbon dioxide pollution. Union Carbide has a new biodegradable industrial detergent for washing grease-stained uniforms.