I have come to realize that the reason why some companies prosper and others fail can be attributed to one key factor: Integrity.

Integrity, i.e. being truthful, forthright and honest with both present and future employees is essential for any company to survive and thrive- especially now during this economic downturn.

When companies want to hire a new employee- they need to be honest with that person during the interview- and if they feel they want to hire him or her- then do it on the spot- not string the person along as many companies- both secular and religious- are doing in today's job market.

Why do these companies and their executives have to lie? Is it only to make themselves look good? Is it merely to give the person being considered "warm fuzzy"s? Is it merely to string the person along while hoping that a new candidate will come forward? Or is it that these company executives have become so accustomed to lying that they no longer know how to be truthful.

I have found from my own experiences that I have a higher respect and regard for both a company and its executives when they have been truthful with me right from the start.

What have been your experiences?