Keeping It Quiet
A coworker you get on well with quietly tells you they have been making mistakes in work that others depend on, and asks you to keep it to yourself.
- Question 1
What would you do in this situation, and why?
- Question 2
Imagine that speaking up could cost them their job. How, if at all, would this change your response? Explain your reasoning.
What a strong answer covers
- Acknowledges the coworker relationship and their trust, without letting it override the duty to people who depend on the work
- Weighs the concrete risk of harm from the mistakes against loyalty, and lands on a defensible course of action
- Suggests a proportionate first step, like encouraging them to disclose it themselves, before escalating
- In question 2, holds the same ethical line while showing real empathy for the personal cost
Read our sample answers
Our sample answer to question 1
My coworker is clearly frightened, and it took real trust to tell me. I'd thank them for being honest, then ask what's been going on, because mistakes often come from overload or stress at home. I've slipped up under pressure myself, so I'd say that too. But I couldn't promise to keep quiet. Other people rely on this work, and an unnoticed error could hurt them. I'd encourage my coworker to tell our manager themselves, since owning it usually goes better than being found out. I'd offer to help them plan what to say, or sit in if they'd like. If they refused, I'd tell them gently that I'd have to raise it, and why. Today, I'd find a quiet moment to talk it through with them.
Our sample answer to question 2
My coworker would be terrified of losing their income, and I'd feel the weight of that too. It wouldn't change what I do, only how carefully I do it. The people who depend on this work didn't choose the risk, and they deserve to be protected. I'd also remember that hidden mistakes tend to surface eventually, and that usually ends worse for everyone. So I'd urge my coworker to speak up first, because coming forward honestly is often treated more kindly. I'd ask whether extra training, a lighter load or some support could help them get back on track. Our manager may also know options I don't. This week, I'd offer to go with them to that conversation, so they don't face it alone.