I think the easiest way to determine whether or not something is true or not is to consider the source of information. When reading something online or in-print, we have to consider the publisher, sources, and author of the information. Certain publishers are more believable based on their reputation for telling the truth. However, all sources of information should be verified by consulting other resources and fact-checking details, especially those that seem far-fetched.
When reading formation online, it is important to know the background of the organization that is sharing the information. Read the “About Us” section to learn more about the organization and the people involved in the reporting the information on the website. Conduct additional research to learn more about the company and its leadership from other resources. Do the sources match up? The language used could be another indicator about the reliability of the website. Language that is straightforward is more likely to be true than flowery, overblown language.
When talking to someone or conducting an interview, it is important to establish a baseline for body language and voice inflection by discussing safe, generalized topics. If you already have a relationship with someone, you probably have a general idea of their tells, but if you are meeting or working with someone for the first time, it can be difficult to tell. In my experience, people who are lying typically avoid eye contact and have a change in movement, either fidgeting too little or too much compared to their normal activity. A person’s voice can also indicate whether or not they are telling the truth. When we lie, we tend to talk too much and provide too many details.
Of course, sometimes you just have to go with your gut. If something feels off, it probably is, so do some checking into the source of your discomfort.