Relationships with Customers

  1. We have just received a major contract award. I've been working closely with an Air Force representative. Can I celebrate by giving him a gift?
    1. No. The Air Force representative cannot accept such a gift. It could create the appearance of an improper relationship and be embarrassing to both the Air Force and our company.
  2. A government team is touring Northrop Grumman. Is it okay to give them a company baseball cap?
    1. Since government policies vary widely between agencies, you should not offer such gifts without consulting your local BCO and obtaining approval from your Business Development or Customer Relations department. 
  3. Do rules restricting gifts apply to foreign customers?
    1. Yes. In some cases, the rules may be more stringent when foreign customers are involved. It is company policy to abide by the laws of the United States, and those of the other countries in which we do business.
  4. The company must disclose current, accurate and complete cost and pricing data to the government. What does this mean?
    1. The Truth in Negotiations Act requires such disclosure. "Cost and pricing data" includes all facts, available at the time of agreement on price, that prudent buyers and sellers could reasonably expect to affect price negotiations.
  5. A customer representative has asked me to review part of a competitor's proposal. May I do this?
    1. No. Doing so may violate legal and contractual prohibitions on disclosure or use of the information. You should consult the affected proposal manager and the Law department for evaluation.
  6. When a supplier team or commercial customer visits, we host a special lunch. Why can't we do this for a government team?
    1. Some government regulations prohibit personnel from receiving meals from actual or potential contractors. The prohibition may apply even if the government personnel pay their fair share. Furthermore, you may not pay for their meals out of your own pocket. Refer the matter to the Law department for evaluation or consult your BCO or Ethics office.
  7. A DoD person I know will be leaving the government soon. Can I talk to her about coming to work for Northrop Grumman?
    1. Not without prior authorization. Advise Human Resources of your interest, and they will determine if such a contact is allowed.

Questions to Ask Yourself