[Saecularis Angel...]

I'm in two minds about this one, and I'd like to know what others think.

If someone offers to give you something for which you would normally have to pay, simply because they respect your profession, is it right to take it? Or should you graciously refuse?

Why?

[Soprano-Cat]

Need more info!

Initial reaction is to accept graciously as a once off, but pay in future.

Depends on the gift and the position of he person giving it, though

[laridae]

Refuse. Could be seen as accepting a bribe.

[RatbagBob]

Depends on whether there could be a perception that you might be influenced to treat the donor in a more favourable light as a result of the gift. If there is room for doubt, refuse it.

[Saecularis Angel...]

Need more info!

I went to hire academic dress this morning (need it for a function tomorrow).

While chatting to the lady there, I mentioned what I'm studying now. She refused to charge me the hire fee, or take the usual deposit you get back when you return the stuff. (So I walked out with the stuff for free).

On the one hand, it was lovely and kind of her and I don't want to be mean about that, but on the other hand... there's something there about being put on a pedestal that has me feeling squirmy.

[TherophosaBlondi]

Refuse. Could be seen as accepting a bribe.

This. In your profession it could be taken the wrong way.

[FiveAus]

Pay it forward and keep the good karma flowing.

[TST]

Don't accept it. My dad's almost perfect reputation was tainted when he took a gift from someone who then reported it to someone that my old man took a bribe

[countrymel]

Depends on the context.

However I gave something to my Tai Chi instructor this morning that I was actually on my way to sell because I respect and like her!

When I was younger I would often be told "No.. you can have that, no need to pay me, your smile has made my day already.." (I have quite a big mouth - it makes for a big smile, if you haven't become attuned to it you can get a bit overwhelmed! - This would mostly happen when I lived in a big city.... I never lost my country bumpkin 'smile at everyone' manners..)


Sometimes people just like to give things because it makes them feel good.

If there are no strings attached - no ongoing sense of obligation - then I say 'let them feel good!'

[Amy 1976]

Does the lady who offered you the discount own the business? If she does then I guess it's her decision to lose a sale. If she is an employee, you should pay.

I will accept small gifts such as cards, chocolate or a cheap bottle of wine from clients. I don't accept anything larger as I think it creates an obligation.