Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery
How to recognise and avoid attempts at bribery in your day-to-day work
Imagine you're in a job interview and you get the job because you give the hiring manager a big bouquet of flowers and tickets to an expensive event. That sounds unfair, doesn't it? Admittedly, this is an extreme example, but it illustrates the basic principle of bribery and corruption: an expensive gift is exchanged for a personal benefit or favour.
What is bribery and corruption?
Bribery and corruption involve the offer, promise or giving of favours to influence an act or omission. These acts have serious legal consequences. Anyone can become a victim of bribery attempts, but particularly vulnerable professional groups are purchasing, sales, production managers or management.
How do you recognise bribery attempts?
There are several signs that may indicate a bribery attempt. These include unexpected gifts and invitations to events. Sensitisation plays an important role here, as this is the only way to assess situations and behave correctly. There are internal company guidelines and compliance rules that must be observed.
How do you behave correctly?
If you are offered an expensive gift, you should adhere to the following steps: decline, report and document.
What about promotional gifts?
Not all gifts are problematic. Promotional gifts such as pens or calendars from long-standing suppliers are generally uncritical. Nevertheless, you should always find out about the company's internal regulations in advance. A good rule of thumb is to check with your company before accepting a gift.
Why is honesty so important?
Your honesty helps to ensure fair competition and prevent fraud. Every report of a bribery attempt helps to uncover and combat corruption. Large companies often have special reporting centres that you can contact.
Conclusion
Bribery and corruption are serious issues that everyone should recognise and avoid in their day-to-day work. Sensitise yourself to possible attempts at bribery and adhere to the company's internal guidelines. Report any incidents immediately and contribute to a fair and transparent working environment.
