Extract from training document

#3. Gary's vendor team just completed a big milestone. He wants to reward them with shirts from the Google store. Should he?

Gary should not reward them with shirts. Why?

Swag, bonuses, and other gifts are considered taxable income to the individual (which Alphabet cannot report since we are not the TVC employer). It can also raise ethics and compliance concerns. Finally, we need to respect and adhere to local laws and regulations, and TVC employers may have strict policies about receiving gifts.

How can we show appreciation for TVCs?

  • Write a thank you note (cc their employer or [redacted])
  • Send them a note on G+

Keep in mind that our suppliers may have their own bonus and recognition programs in place to reward their employees. They also may choose to purchase swag from the Google store and distribute it to their employees as long as it is not expensed back to Alphabet.

For vendor engagements requiring a bonus program, vendor managers can allocate budget and set bonus guidelines in the statement of work. The supplier (not Alphabet) must determine the criteria and the amount of bonus funds to distribute to individual vendors.