Looks like time for another cost/benefit analysis.
Are you the boss/sponsor/rule maker/company president?
If so then it's less about ethics and more about a business decision.
In many businesses, people can pay more for expedited results. I say if the client's offer is good and you aren't breaking ethics, not to mention not affecting your other clients, then go for it I say.
If you aren't the boss, you don't make the rules, it's truly a private bribe, or it doesn't make financial sense, don't do it.
Best of luck and please do let us know your course of action! Saving Changes...
Deepa KalangiManager, Program Management, Author, Trainer| CVS HealthCharlotte, NC, United States
Per PMI code of conduct, no bonus should be accepted in this way. So, the best course of action is to notify the senior leadership and follow company standards and policies. Saving Changes...
Amany NuseibehSpeaker, Global Leader | Optimal ConsultingSydney, Nsw, Australia
Thank you all for your analysis, advice and care. I am very touched by the care and professionalism demonstrated in this discussion by each and everyone of you. The passion for ethics and professional conduct, the analysis whether I am running the business or not, the "soft way out" and all that have been suggested are highly appreciated.
My moral compass, personal values, reinforced by PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, the organisation guidelines, the legal environment and the "pub test" as it's called in Australia definitely provide a solid framework. The approach and soft skills required to deliver the ethical message are critical to maintaining honesty, respect and fairness to all clients. Your contributions re-enforced all of that.
I'd like to add that I felt comfortable posting while in between jobs - hence this situation does not point to any specific company or client.
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1 reply by Darren McCrea
Jul 26, 2017 2:28 PM
Darren McCrea
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Hi Amany,
Since you posted this while between jobs, I am wondering if this was just a hypothetical question? The experience and certifications you list in your profile lead me to believe that you knew the answer prior to posting. Just curious.
Saving Changes...
Jess De OcampoLean Six Sigma Professional/Project Manager/Consultant/| .Manila, Ncr, Philippines
Jul 17, 2017 7:08 AM
Replying to Adnan Shareef
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This "Private bonus" looks like an opportunity with a hidden threat.
i.e.
Taking the "private bonus" from this client is an opportunity in the short term. You will enjoy it now.
But it's a threat to your reputation & might affect your professional relationships with the client in the long term.
That's why PMI's code of ethics insisted on rejecting any personal gifts.
BR
I agree. "Private bonus" connotation to me is like receiving money or something in kind "under the table." It usually comes with strings attached to it. Not to mention, you are compromising your reputation and ethics/integrity Saving Changes...
Mikel SteadmanPMO Leader| Development Dimensions InternationalTroy, Nh, United States
Don't do it.
1, follow the ethics of our practice and the practice of leadership.
2, always be aware there are decision makers, like me, who use this to test ethics and security. If I know you bent the rules for me, how am I to believe you in the future? Saving Changes...
The PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, which all PMI members have made a pledge to follow, states in the section about fairness that "When we realize that we have a real or potential conflict of interest, we refrain from engaging in the decision- making process or otherwise attempting to influence outcomes, unless or until: we have made full disclosure to the affected stakeholders; we have an approved mitigation plan; and we have obtained the consent of the stakeholders to proceed." Saving Changes...
Jeff GruettertDirector of Operations| 3BG Supply Co.Fort Wayne, In, United States
Report the information to management so that your conflict of interest in transparent. Let the Customer know that while you understand the project's importance, you as a professional cannot disregard the needs of other clients who came before.
Hope this helps! Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
Jul 18, 2017 4:40 PM
Replying to Paul Pelletier
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Having worked in a number of countries, I've had experiences similar to the one you described. Each time, I reflect on my personal and professional moral compass. Being ethical is a value I hold dear. It also helps to be guided by our Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct - an additional and constant reminder that we owe ethical duties to our profession.
If I'm still not sure what to do, I turn to the PMI Ethical Decision-Making Framework - a great tool to help sort out challenges.
And lastly, I use what I call the "Mother Test" - What would my mother say if she heard that I chose to take the bonus? The answer usually cements what I already believe is the "right" thing to do.
Similar to Paul's test, I use the front page test. What would people say if they read about it on the front page of the newspaper? Saving Changes...
Darren McCreaDirector, Enterprise Information Services| Central Oregon Community CollegeBend, Or, United States
Jul 18, 2017 11:33 PM
Replying to Amany Nuseibeh
...
Thank you all for your analysis, advice and care. I am very touched by the care and professionalism demonstrated in this discussion by each and everyone of you. The passion for ethics and professional conduct, the analysis whether I am running the business or not, the "soft way out" and all that have been suggested are highly appreciated.
My moral compass, personal values, reinforced by PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, the organisation guidelines, the legal environment and the "pub test" as it's called in Australia definitely provide a solid framework. The approach and soft skills required to deliver the ethical message are critical to maintaining honesty, respect and fairness to all clients. Your contributions re-enforced all of that.
I'd like to add that I felt comfortable posting while in between jobs - hence this situation does not point to any specific company or client.
Hi Amany,
Since you posted this while between jobs, I am wondering if this was just a hypothetical question? The experience and certifications you list in your profile lead me to believe that you knew the answer prior to posting. Just curious.
...
1 reply by Amany Nuseibeh
Aug 03, 2017 7:55 PM
Amany Nuseibeh
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Hi Darren,
Thank you for your kind words and confidence. We all encounter various situations in our career life that we know the answer for. Discussions with our trusted advisors provides a variety of additional questions and alternative approaches while re-enforcing the answer/decision.
