Seven Lies

Slide 1:

When it comes to finding out whether or not you`re being lied to, Gepetto had it easy. All it took was one look at Pinocchios`s growing nose and he knew. Of course, most of us don`t have it that easy but could sure benefit if we did. Here are seven classic signs to watch out for.

Slide 2:

No eye contact Generally, if someone is lying, they will not look you in the eye, at least during a certain part of the conversation. Normally, people make eye contact for at least half of a conversation, so anything less than this could be suspicious. One caveat: there are some people who will take great pains to make eye contact with you even if they`re lying, simply to make you think they`re not.

Slide 3:

Change in voice A change in the pitch of a person`s tone, or a lot of stammering (umm, ah), or throat clearing could indicate a lie.

Slide 4:

Unusual body language If a person taps their foot a lot, fidgets with their hands, raises their shoulders, turns away from you or brings their hand to their face (to touch their chin or nose, etc.)—in other words, if they act nervous or uncomfortable—it could mean they`re telling a lie. Also watch out for blushing (or becoming pale) and increased blinking.

Slide 5:

Something sounds fishy Making statements that contradict each other, are inconsistent or don`t sound quite right are usually part of a lie.

Slide 6:

Overly defensive Sometimes when a person is lying they will become extremely defensive, refusing to answer any questions and even accusing you of lying. This may mean they have something to hide.

Slide 7:

Changes subject easily If someone is lying and you change the subject, chances are high that they`ll go right along with it. A person telling the truth, however, will likely ask why you changed the subject and want to go back to it.

Slide 8:

Humour or sarcasm A guilty person will often try to change the subject using humour or sarcasm. Of course, no one behaviour can tell for sure whether or not someone is telling the truth or lying. While you should trust your instinct, if you`re not sure it`s best to try to get some evidence to back up your accusation. Rather than relying on a specific behaviour, catching a liar in the act is best done by watching their normal behaviours. When those behaviours suddenly change, that`s when a lie has likely been told.