On the Unicru test for big box retail stores one of the questions is "Do you ever fake being polite" The first thing you think is - sure I fake being polite because some people make you feel like beating them down. But you can't because it's uncouth. So throwing on a fake smile and biting your tongue is what the average well-mannered person would do. And just hope the person go away soon.

Of course the correct answer is "strongly disagree" because you should never fake being polite it's good manners to always do so. Just beat them down instead.lol

So maybe the state of PA should use the Unicru test to weed out the people before employment. You're be surprised at the people with PHDs and Masters who fluke that test.

They also have a question that ask: Is there anyone you just can't stand?

I've always scored high taking personality tests for jobs, but I've also faked being nice more times than I can count! One time a temp agency gave me a test that kept asking me about stealing. Like "it's okay to sometimes take office supplies home from work" (would anyone check "agree?")   

It's amazing how much is spent training people to do what is common sense to many of us. Working with the public is very trying, however.   Last time I got angry at a customer was when I was one too. A woman made a young clerk at store cry. She kept saying "You are so stupid." I was next in line and finally couldn't take it. I said "No, Ma'am. You are the stupid one. She is just doing her job." She had written a check for clothes and wanted cash when she tried to return them the next day.

Regarding spending -- here's a good one. Although it wasn't with taxpayer money, the company where I worked for many years spent about $200,000 flying us to a resort for a meeting. The purpose was to explain to us why they had to downsize and lay off people.