When engaging with colleagues, social workers should strive to avoid:

Striving to avoid conflicts of interest when engaging with colleagues is fundamental to maintaining ethical standards in social work. Conflicts of interest can arise when a social worker’s professional duties are compromised by their personal interests, loyalties, or relationships. This is critical because it ensures that decisions made in the best interest of clients are not influenced by external factors that could undermine the integrity of the social worker's practice.

By avoiding conflicts of interest, social workers can uphold the principles of integrity and objectivity that are vital in their profession. This commitment helps enhance trustworthiness among colleagues and clients and promotes collaboration and ethical decision-making within the work environment. While healthy communication, professional alliances, and peer support are essential components of a professional practice, they must be exercised in a manner that does not create conflicts of interest.