Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relation between values and virtues and the principles of Total Quality Management (TQM) and thus to propose a tentative framework of relationships.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper is conceptual. It reviews some lists of values present in literature, and summarizes them in a more comprehensive list. Then the list of values is summarized in conjunction with a list of core virtues. Thus, it tries to explain the relation between them and the principles of TQM, passing through the two mediating variables passion and trust.
Findings – A model of TQM based on core virtues is proposed. Research limitations/implications – The lack of empirical data that can validate the model.
Practical implications – Considering the emphasis placed on virtues, the model can have some practical implications in the field of recruitment, promotion, and leadership.
Originality/value – The paper attempts to link values and virtues to the principles of TQM by developing a model of interactions. A novel framework that can provide a basis for further research into the profound nature of quality management has been proposed. Furthermore, some implications that should be useful for recruiters and managers are discussed.