Our Commitment to Our Business Partners
Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest occurs when our personal activities or relationships impact our ability to make objective business decisions.
The best way to avoid potential conflicts is to know and avoid the kinds of situations where conflicts may arise. Any situation that makes others question our objectivity can erode the trust that others place in us. So, be proactive in disclosing both potential and actual conflicts. Once disclosed, the situation can usually be managed and resolved.
Conflicts of interest can arise in many ways. For example:
- Outside jobs and affiliations, especially with competitors, customers or business partners
- Working with or hiring close relatives, partners or friends, especially if they report to you
- Serving as a board member of another organization
- Investments that might influence — or appear to influence — your judgment
It could be. If you deal with this customer, your relationship could compromise your ability to act objectively. It's best to disclose your relationship to your manager or another company resource so the situation can be reviewed and next steps can be determined, such as recusing yourself from certain matters involving your spouse's company.
