When I was working for another company, the most common complaint from our clients was the unfulfilled promises.  I was told to always say we'd have a search back in 24 hours or "you'll have it today" when the report wasn't even in-house yet because that's what the client wanted to hear.  I couldn't do it.  Arguments ensued daily.

I knew they desired honesty and communication - not the opposite of what I've always been taught in business.  We were Overpromising, Under-Delivering.  How's that for a company motto?