1. General Values vs. Company Values
When we talk about values, we need to distinguish:
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General values are universal. They apply everywhere – regardless of company, industry, or culture. These include respect, appreciation, fairness. And, of course, honesty.
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Company values, on the other hand, are specific rules defined by an organization. They provide orientation for collaboration and decision-making – and differ from one company to another.
Both are closely connected. General values form the foundation. Company values build upon them.
2. “You shall not lie” – easy to say, hard to live by
The commandment “You shall not lie” can already be found in the Bible. Everyone would agree: honesty is important, and we should stick to it.
But in everyday life, it quickly becomes clear: it’s not that simple. Because almost no one gets by without small white lies.
A simple example: Someone takes half a day off to attend a job interview at another company. Understandably, they don’t want to tell their current employer. But what do they say when colleagues ask? An “excuse” seems easiest – and suddenly, you’re at the edge of honesty.
3. “We don’t lie” – my leadership principle
That’s why, in my teams, I’ve often set the principle: We don’t lie.
What I meant was: no deliberate falsehoods – neither internally, nor towards clients, nor in recruiting. Sounds simple, but in practice it’s a daily challenge.
One example: My team once accidentally scheduled two client meetings at the same time. One had to be postponed. Embarrassing, yes – but it happens. Instead of admitting the mistake, the client was told: “Dr. Tschentscher is unfortunately sick today.”
I only found out a week later – when the client asked me if I was feeling better. A supposedly small “protective lie” that became extremely awkward once exposed.
4. Small lies, big impact
I see situations like this all the time:
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Success stories told a little too gloriously.
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Software features presented as more capable than they really are.
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Job candidates given a rosier picture of processes than they’ll later experience.
And even I often find myself in situations where it’s hard to stick to the simple principle “You shall not lie.” I don’t always succeed.
In the moment, bending the truth may feel convenient. But in the long run, it costs trust – and trust is the hardest currency in any business.
5. Honesty as a competitive advantage
Honesty is uncomfortable. It forces you to admit mistakes, name limitations clearly, and sometimes confront clients with unpleasant truths.
But that’s exactly where its strength lies: those who remain consistently honest earn credibility. Clients and partners know where they stand. Employees trust leaders more when they see that even uncomfortable truths are spoken.
Honesty makes you vulnerable – but that’s exactly what creates strength.
6. My recommandation
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Where have “small lies” already become routine in your daily work?
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Which situations would improve if you had the courage to be direct and honest?
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And what if honesty were not just an ideal – but a lived rule in your team?
Because honesty costs courage in the short term. But in the long term, it builds trust – and that is priceless.
