How to Spot & Address Misinformation — Without Damaging Trust

How to Spot & Address Misinformation — Without Damaging Trust

In today’s world of instant messages, rapid decisions, and fast-moving teams, misinformation doesn’t just spread — it evolves.

But here’s the truth: most misinformation doesn’t come from bad actors… it comes from emotion.

If you lead teams, coach talent, or build early-stage companies, the way you navigate truth, nuance, and interpersonal dynamics becomes part of your operating system. And when you’re working with people who lean toward the Supporter (S) or Promoter (I) tendencies in DISC, the balance between accuracy and connection gets even more sensitive.

This article breaks down how to read signals, verify facts, and correct misalignment — without damaging trust, relationships, or group cohesion.

 The Human Side of Misinformation

Supporters (S) and Promoters (I) are deeply relational communicators. They prioritize people, harmony, and energy. That’s what makes them incredible in team settings — and also what shapes how “their version” of the truth is shared.

Here’s how misinformation typically shows up:

The key insight:

This isn’t deception — it’s relational protection.

Understanding that changes everything about how leaders respond.

How to Spot Inconsistencies Early

You’re not looking to “catch” anyone.

You’re looking to read patterns.

With Supporters (S):

• Listen for what’s missing, not just what’s said.
• Notice gentle phrasing, pauses, or quick redirecting.
• Use reassuring prompts:
  “That seems important — can you walk me through that one more time?”

With Promoters (I):

• Watch for shifting timelines or “too polished” sequences.
• Stay curious, not confrontational.
• Use validating clarification:
  “Love that — just want to make sure I’ve got the sequence right. Can you replay that part?”

The goal is to keep the emotional airspace safe, so truth can surface naturally.

How to Fact-Check Without Friction

Publicly challenging someone destroys trust.

Inviting collaboration builds it.

Verification shouldn’t feel like doubt —

It should feel like commitment to shared success.

Correcting Misalignment While Strengthening Trust

Tone is everything.

With Supporters (S):

• Affirm intention:
  “I know you were trying to keep everyone on track — thank you.”
• Handle corrections privately, not publicly.

With Promoters (I):

• Praise contribution first:
  “Your energy set the tone — let’s tighten up the numbers so we can back you up confidently.”
• Keep it upbeat and collaborative.

Done well, corrections actually increase credibility.

Adapt Your Communication Style

Here’s the quick Bootstrap Buffalo adjustment guide:

Leaders who can shift between these modes create safer, more honest teams.

Handling Misinformation in Groups

When something inaccurate surfaces publicly:

1. Correct it as a team alignment moment — not a personal correction.
   “There’s been a little confusion here — let’s align quickly.”
2. Reinforce the person afterward.
   “Thanks for raising that earlier — it surfaced something important.”

That’s how you keep unity strong while keeping truth intact.

The Bigger Takeaway

When addressed skillfully, misinformation becomes a trust-building moment, not a setback.

You show your team or peers that:

• Truth is safe
• Questions are welcome
• Accuracy and empathy can coexist
• Psychological safety has structure and standards

This is the foundation of high-performance teams, honest communication, and resilient culture — the same systems we implement inside Bootstrap Buffalo’s growth and operating frameworks.

 Quick Implementation Steps for Leaders

Here’s the four-step loop you can use today:

1. Observe subtle emotional filters or missing details
2. Confirm collaboratively (“accuracy = respect”)
3. Reframe corrections around shared goals
4. Reinforce trust and contribution

If you do those four things consistently, truth-telling becomes normal — not risky.

Question for You

How do you correct misinformation while preserving trust?

I’d love to hear the approaches you use with your team, clients, or community. Drop your thoughts in the comments.