Take the IMC USA Consulting Ethics Challenge! 1.) Read this case study  2.) Read the IMC USA Code of Ethics, and 3.) comment below.

The Consulting Ethics Situation

You’ve been working with your client for five months now. The project is progressing according to schedule. You’ve enjoyed working with the client, and they seem happy with your work.

As you’re boarding your flight to their Bridgeport, CT facility to start your work with that team, you get a text from the client: 

“See Charlie Pittman – CIO while there

Told him to work with you to integrate his team right away too” 

Integrating Charlie’s team is not in the scope of services of your current engagement phase. While Charlie’s team integration is critical at this point, it was planned to be part of Phase 2.

As you consider your client’s request, you realize that integrating it right away could save time and money for everyone.

What Would an Ethical Consultant Do?

Is there an ethical question or potential violation of the IMC USA Code of Ethics related to this ethics case? 

What, if anything, would you do?

Call to Action:

If you’d like to learn more consulting ethics and follow a Code of Ethics for professional consultants, join IMC USA. All members are required to adhere to the IMC USA Code of Ethics as well as our Consultant’s Code of Conduct.

About the Author, Liz Weber CMC®, CSP

The author of this post, Liz Weber, is a Strategic Leadership Advisor, Certified Management Consultant® (CMC®) and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP). Liz currently serves as IMC USA’s Ethics Chair. Liz holds an MBA in International Business. She has taught for Johns Hopkins University’s Graduate School of Continuing Studies and Georgetown University’s Senior Executive Leadership Program. Liz has supervised business activities in 129 countries and consulted in over 20 countries. She has written ten leadership books and currently writes a monthly blog and posts on social media daily. For more information visit her website and connect with Liz on LinkedIn.