APS account rep offered me four tickets to tomorrow's Diamondbacks game after I completed an audit that found $12K in their favor (billing errors that helped the client). The tickets are behind home plate, probably worth $400+ total. My gut says decline but wanted to check what others think. The audit results weren't influenced by any expectation of gifts.
Utility rep offered me Diamondbacks tickets - conflict?
Patricia, I'd pass on those tickets. Alabama Power reps have offered me similar things over the years and I always decline. Even if your work wasn't influenced, it creates the appearance of a relationship that could affect future audits. Not worth the risk to your professional reputation for a baseball game.
Albert's right. Austin Energy folks are pretty good about staying professional, but I've had other Texas utilities try similar approaches. The CUBA guidelines are pretty clear - avoid anything that could create even the appearance of improper influence. Thank them politely and explain your professional standards.
Idaho Power keeps things pretty straightforward up here, but I agree with the others. The value isn't really the issue - it's about maintaining clear boundaries. What happens when your next audit with APS finds errors that cost them money? You don't want them thinking you owe them anything.
I had Ameren Missouri try to comp me dinner at a fancy steakhouse once after a favorable audit outcome. Felt good to decline and explain that my independence is worth more than any meal. Helps establish clear professional boundaries for future interactions too.
CPS Energy down here in San Antonio is usually pretty professional, but I've seen other utilities in Texas get creative with 'relationship building.' Patricia, you're smart to ask. The tickets might seem harmless now, but what about when they remember your decision the next time you find a $50K error in their favor?
Entergy has tried similar approaches over the years. I always explain that accepting gifts could compromise my ability to provide unbiased analysis for future clients. Most utility reps understand when you put it in those terms. It's about protecting the integrity of the audit process.
FPL reps have offered everything from Heat tickets to fishing charters. Never taken any of it. Miami's got enough entertainment that I don't need utility-funded fun. Besides, what's $400 in tickets compared to maintaining a reputation for independence that's worth thousands in future business?
You're all absolutely right. I called him this morning and politely declined, explaining my professional standards around accepting gifts. He was totally understanding and said he respected the position. Good reminder that maintaining clear boundaries actually builds better long-term working relationships.
Smart move, Patricia. OPPD has always been straightforward with me, but I've heard stories from other Nebraska auditors about utilities testing boundaries. Your response probably earned more respect than accepting the tickets would have. Professional integrity pays dividends over time.
Eugene Water & Electric Board keeps things simple, but I agree with everyone here. The fact that you questioned it shows good professional instincts. When in doubt, err on the side of maintaining independence. Your clients deserve an auditor who's completely uncompromised.
Patricia, you handled this perfectly. I've seen too many situations where small compromises lead to bigger problems down the road. MLGW keeps things professional here in Memphis, but maintaining clear ethical boundaries is essential regardless of the utility. Your reputation for independence is your most valuable professional asset.