
PMI's Code of Ethics governs how Project Management Professionals should behave. It is heavily tested on the PMP exam.
Four core values:
Responsibility — own our decisions and actions; take ownership of mistakes; act in best interest of project
Respect — treat others with dignity; value diversity; avoid behaviors that others find offensive
Fairness — make decisions impartially; disclose conflicts of interest; practice equity
Honesty — understand and tell the truth; create an environment of transparency
Key ethical scenarios on the exam:
Conflict of interest — must disclose; recuse yourself if necessary
Bribery/gifts — gifts above trivial value must be disclosed; bribery is always wrong
Reporting violations — you must report unethical behavior
Falsifying information — never; report it if others do
Intellectual property — respect; don't use without permission
The PMP exam answer principle: When in doubt, choose the most ethical, transparent, and proactive answer. PMs communicate issues early, don't hide problems, and always act in the client's best interest.
Reference:
TaskLoco™ — The Sticky Note GOAT