How should members handle gifts and entertainment with clients?

Members should handle gifts and entertainment with clients by avoiding excessive gifts and disclosing any received that could appear as a conflict of interest. This approach is rooted in maintaining ethical standards and transparency within professional relationships. Excessive gifts can create an appearance of favoritism or undue influence, eroding trust and integrity in client interactions. By disclosing gifts that may raise conflicts of interest, members demonstrate a commitment to ethical behavior and accountability, thus fostering a more trustworthy environment in business dealings.

The emphasis on avoidance of excessive gifts underscores the importance of managing perceptions in client relations. It is not just about the monetary value of gifts, but also about the potential implications on professional judgment and integrity. This approach aligns well with ethical guidelines that seek to ensure fairness and impartiality in professional conduct.