As with every policy of mine, this is non-negotiable. I realize how strict this is, but even if it burns me in the short-term as this business does not pull in a lot of money at this time, I feel it is better long-term not to be unethical, or have the potential to be seen as such.
Events (such as Conventions)
If I’m covering an event of any kind, I will NEVER accept payment for the coverage of any booth. It’s simple: if I believe a booth should be covered, I’ll cover it. Otherwise, I won’t. If a company was found to donate directly to me or “sneak” money to me under the radar as “compensation” or other guise (such as bribery), I will immediately refund them, even if it means I take a financial hit with how new my business as. Additionally, I may go a step further and outright ban them from advertising should this behavior become a pattern. It’s unethical, and I will not allow it.
Food/Refreshments
I will also reject breakfast, lunch, dinner, desert, or any sort of other reservations or catering from any and all companies. If snacks or light refreshments are present at your event, I may partake (especially for my own health and safety, as I have some medical issues), but never anything more than something like chips or water, or whatever the equivalent may be.
I will also pay for my own meals, should I travel for these events. The company will not be allowed to do so.
Travel (Flights, Train Rides, Hotels, etc.)
Speaking of travel…
Understanding that this means I will not be able to attend any events until I’m making enough money that I can feasibly do so (the part of the sentence in which I one day hope to remove), it is my strict policy to reject any requests for companies to book or otherwise manage accommodations on my behalf. Allowing a company to do so could create the potential for a conflict of interest, and I’d prefer to maintain my freedom and overall integrity.
Not to mention the potential for issues, like not being able to control if I need to go home early for an emergency, for example. So, the answer’s no. I can’t allow it, nor will I anyway.