GoKawiilPsychologist Vanessa Bohns outlines a 3-question test for workplace honesty
Social psychologist Vanessa Bohns, in an NPR interview tied to her new book 'Should I Say Something?', said honesty at work isn't always useful if it lacks practical value. She recommends workers ask three questions before giving feedback: is it actionable, would I want to hear it, and does the other person actually want it.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The framework addresses a common workplace tension between candor and tact, suggesting that unsolicited or non-actionable feedback can do more harm than good. Bohns' research on the 'MUM effect' implies that people's instinct to withhold bad news may sometimes be rational rather than merely avoidant, which could reshape how managers and peers think about giving feedback.
- Bohns says honesty without practical value isn't necessarily the best policy.
- She suggests asking if feedback is actionable, wanted, and welcomed before giving it.
- Her book 'Should I Say Something?' examines research on when to speak up versus stay silent.
Should I Say Something? by Vanessa Bohns — This is the exact book discussed in the article, where social psychologist Vanessa Bohns breaks down the science of when honesty helps and when it hurts in the workplace. If you want practical frameworks for deciding what to share and what to keep to yourself, it's a great next step after reading her advice here.
See Should I Say Something? by Vanessa Bohns on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: entrepreneur.com — Sherin Shibu, 2026-11-11
Published there as: “Can You Be Too Honest at Work? Here Are 3 Questions to Ask Before Giving Feedback.”
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