There are many circumstances in which it would be easy to enlist the aid of 'white lies' in the era we live in today. 'The check is in the mail' when in actuality it won't be mailed until tomorrow. 'She/he is in a meetingout to lunchgone for the day' instead of stating that she/he is unavailable and take a message. 'No we didn't get your fax' when it has actually come through hours before but gone unnoticed and unattended by the staff. A majority of humanity reacts favorably to honesty and integrity.

Often when the word 'integrity' is spoken it brings to mind a picture of trustworthiness and truthfulness.

Definitions for the word 'integrity' are: 1. Wholeness, Completeness 2. unimpaired condition, soundness 3. honesty, sincerity. A more current definition indicates that integrity is 'comprised of the personal inner sense of wholenessan honesty and consistency of uprightness of character'. Thus a relationship with an individual or business that promotes integrity would suggest an ethical relationship. One in which honesty and trustworthiness would be understood.

Is it possible that a definition of excellent Customer Service could include white lies? First and foremost, the definition of white lies has changed dramatically in the past 25 to 30 years. Webster's New World Dictionarypublished in 1974indicates that a "white lie" is 'a lie about a trivial matter often told to spare someone' s feelings."' Yet a current definition suggests: "....is a lie which is believed harmless or innocuous, or is in accordance with the conventions of the culture". Does this imply that we have become more complacent about accepting and indulging in "white lies". A "lie"from current AND older resourcesis an intentionally false statement. Albeit a "white lie", "lying by omission" or "just a lie"it is still lying.

It is human nature to want to believe and trust. It is when a trust is broken that the problems beginin all relationships. After we have been lied to,it is natural to disbelieve thereafter.

The success or failure of a service business is based on its customers. Satisfied, happy, trusting customers are
essential to success. A business that has a solid foundation and where the essence of excellent customer service
is an innate practice of every day's operation has no need for "white lies".

So the business owner must decide if the 'white lie' is worth the risk of breaking the trust of your customers.