Dealing with bribes in the workplace

Being offered a bribe is one of the most awkward situations any professional can find himself or herself in. You may politely but firmly decline the offer.

In some cases, however, a firm 'No' may not be sufficient or the safest move. The ADB defines bribery as the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting, directly or indirectly, anything of value to influence improperly the actions of another party.

A bribe can be disguised as a gift, money, property, privilege, or even a personal favour. Here are a few tips on dealing with bribery in the workplace. When you are offered a bribe directly, assess the situation first. Someone attempting to bribe you may apply a great deal of pressure on you to accept it.

Assess whether declining the bribe could make things more complicated or could lead to a hostile situation. Be particularly cautious when dealing with someone who has power or is part of the same organisation you are in. Maintain presence of mind.

A bribe can come in moments when you least expect it. In the event that you get caught off guard, try your best to take note of important details - who is bribing you, when and where you were approached and what is being offered and what is at stake.

These are specifics that can help back your claim. Be sure to notify your superior immediately and provide a full account of what took place. Timing is essential here. Choosing to delay notifying the proper authorities could put your integrity and credibility in question.

Informing your supervisor or a person in authority is the most important thing to do if you are ever offered a bribe.When declining is no longer an option, make no promises. You may have to accept the offer, but do not commit in any way to what you are expected to deliver.

Make the documentation. You now have physical evidence. Handle it well. Keep it in its original form and avoid having others see or get a hold of it as you proceed to report to the authorities.

The same principles also apply when a bribe is sent to you anonymously via mail or courier. Upon delivery, take photographs of the contents and packaging, which could have additional information that could lead to identifying the bribe giver.

In all cases, it is necessary to keep all information confidential until appropriate action is taken through an investigation. The ADB has issued proper procedures in dealing with an offer or receipt of a bribe for ADB staff.

An ADB staffer reported a bribery attempt by a person associated with an infrastructure project funded by the ADB. The motivation for the act was possibly to elicit a favourable response from the ADB staffer with respect to a procurement with the ADB for endorsement.

The bribe was approximately $1,500 in cash. It was handed over to the ADB staffer in a folder containing project documents.

Bribery is considered a corrupt practice under ADB's Integrity Principles and Guidelines.

When alerted of the bribery attempt, the ADB responded promptly by providing the ADB staffer with support and guidance in dealing with the situation.

ADB management took custody of the bribe money. Remedial and preventive action taken by ADB's Office of Anticorruption and Integrity.