Recognize a possible conflict early

A personal connection may matter when it could affect—or appear to affect—a work decision.

A personal relationship, financial interest, or outside role can create a possible conflict if it overlaps with a decision you influence. A possible conflict is not a finding of wrongdoing. Raise it before the decision through the approved confidential route described by the applicable policy.

This page helps you recognize a situation and prepare. It does not submit, approve, or decide a disclosure. The applicable policy and designated reviewer’s route govern real disclosures.

Compare the situation with your work

These fictional examples are prompts for checking the applicable policy, not final determinations.

A relative’s business is in play

A close relative owns or works for a company being considered for a contract, hire, or purchase you can influence.

  • Identify whether you evaluate, recommend, or approve the decision.
  • Raise the possible conflict before the decision.

An outside role overlaps

A board seat, side business, consulting engagement, or investment touches the same customers, suppliers, or decisions as your job.

  • Note which work decisions the role could touch.
  • Disclose the role even if you have not acted on it.

No apparent work connection

A hobby, community volunteer role, or investment in an unrelated field may have no connection to your work decisions.

  • Check the applicable policy for any category it requires you to disclose.
  • Ask the designated reviewer if the connection is unclear.

Prepare to raise a possible conflict

  1. 1

    Identify the connection

    Describe the relationship, financial interest, or outside role and the people or organizations involved.

  2. 2

    Name the work decision

    Explain whether you evaluate, recommend, approve, or otherwise influence the related decision, and when that decision is expected.

  3. 3

    Use the approved route before acting

    Follow the applicable policy’s confidential disclosure route and ask its designated reviewer for guidance. Do not rely on this page to decide whether a conflict exists.