Conflicts of Interest - They're Different at Work

Sometimes, a conflict of interest at work can seem like a normal part of everyday life. That's one of the reasons that conflicts can be so difficult to understand.

Imagine this scenario...

You're outside working in your yard and a neighbor calls out, "You have the best-looking garden in the neighborhood! How do you do it?" You say it's because of a new plant food you found and you give your neighbor the phone number of the company that sells the product. "You should really try it," you say. "Mention my name and they'll cut you a good deal."

What you don't tell your neighbor is that your brother-in-law owns the company. You don't tell the neighbor that... Read more »

Outside Work One of the consequences of the current economy is that more people are considering the option of supplementing their income with outside employment. This might take the form of "moonlighting" or it might involve entrepreneurial efforts such as a"side business." Whether or not outside employment creates a conflict of interest depends on many factors. Read more »

"Just Friends." How would you handle the situation below? Suppose you're in a position to select a consultant for some work at Olin. Your friend Bob has experience in the field and you know he would do a good job at a fair price. Does it matter if you choose Bob for the job? Click here to find out »

Family Relationships

Q: An Olin supplier is looking to hire a management trainee. My son has the right qualifications. How far can I go in recommending my son for the job?

A: You can introduce your son to your business associate and let them take it from there. This situation could become a conflict of interest if you make any statements to the vendor that implies future business or preferential treatment if your son is hired.

Click here for a list of additional Q&As on conflicts of interest.

Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom. -- Thomas Jefferson, Third President of the United States

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