At project closing phase, while the client project team are reviewing and closing subcontractors' extra costs, one of subcontractors sends some new year greetings cards with gift cards attached inside for ALL project team, the envelopes are unnamed, sealed and have equal values. Should the team members accept, reject or accept them after disclosure? Can this harm ethical codes and how? Saving Changes...
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Thomas WalentaGlobal Project Economy ExpertHackenheim, Germany
Seyed,
many ethical questions depend very much on the specific environment and circumstances.
The ethical decision these team members have to make may be characterized by a critical timing (before final acceptance) and the fact that gifts are given at all and also in a rather impersonal manner.
Some environments reject to give or accept any gifts, or just to a certain amount. If the gift cards extend such a value they might be even illegal. Without that it could be perceived as an example of given something with the expectation of getting something back by creating an emotion of debt. This would be dishonest.
It may be unfair to other contractors to accept such a gift.
And it might be irresponsible to accept such a gift, as the professional work by the team member is awarded by their organization and not by contractors.
But as I said, it is always a specific decision and judgement to be made by the individuals. Saving Changes...
If there is an expectation that this will help the subcontractor get follow-on work then it likely crosses the line. It is also important to check the policies of the companies involved and any government regulations governing such activity.
First, you should refer to your company's policy. I would not accept the gift, however, you may accept and do not violate any rules or codes of ethics. it depends on the specific case Saving Changes...
Sergio Luis ConteHelping to create solutions for everyone| Worldwide based OrganizationsBuenos Aires, Argentina
It will depends on the organization code of ethics. Above it are country laws and regulations. Putting it in other field will be subjective and it is to enter in a debate that belongs to phylosofy and started 2000 years ago without resolution yet. Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
As a contractor myself, I will give small tokens of appreciation to my clients. My intention is not to create an emotional debt but rather goodwill. Saving Changes...
Eric SimmsSenior Program ManagerBaltimore, Maryland, United States
As others have said, you should first refer to you organization's ethical policy about receiving gifts. After that, consider how accepting the gift makes you appear to others. You might want to go the extra mile and politely refuse the gift so you don't have even the appearance of impropriety. Saving Changes...
Paul AzanorProject Consultant| Lagos NigeriaIkoyi, Lagos, Nigeria
To be on the safe side, it is best to decline this gift offer, more especially if there is a follow-on work. Saving Changes...
