Rule 8 – Courtesy and Cooperation

A member shall perform professional services with courtesy and professional respect, shall avoid unjustifiable or improper criticism of other members, and shall cooperate with others in the client’s or employer’s interest.

Keeping things respectful even when you disagree

Courtesy and cooperation go hand in hand with professionalism. There is no need to agree on everything, but Rule 8 expects members to treat other actuaries, clients and stakeholders with respect, and be prepared to engage in a constructive way even when opposing views are held or interests no longer align.

Why Rule 8 is important

Leads to better outcomes for clients and employers
Encouraging collaboration and constructive communication increases cooperation and reduces friction and delays caused by interpersonal conflicts.

Builds trust

Acting with professional courtesy assures clients and employers that their interests are prioritized over disagreements or airing grievances.

Upholds the profession’s reputation
Reducing the chance of public disputes, grievances, complaints or disciplinary action protects the reputation of the entire profession.

Promotes openness and shared responsibility
Cooperating with others ensures all parties have access to relevant information for sound analysis and decision-making.

Discourages harmful practices

Avoiding unjustifiable or improper criticism reduces risks of defamation or undermining colleagues for personal gain.

Fosters a positive work environment
Acting with courtesy and respect helps keep professional interactions positive.

What Rule 8 means for members

Be respectful, even when you disagree
Demonstrate professional courtesy at all times. Recognize and credit others’ contributions. Communicate constructively. Do not deceive, manipulate, or spread false or defamatory information.

Maintain objectivity
Conduct discussions around disagreements objectively. Make sure you’re not unjustifiably or improperly criticizing another member’s work. They may approach things differently, based on differing assumptions or methods.

Try to understand others’ positions
Consider how you would feel when expressing criticism. Holding a different opinion does not mean others are incompetent or unprofessional. Trust that they are acting in good faith using their own methodology and data.

In the frame we see a hand working on a tablet.

You may still express opposing views
It is valid and entirely reasonable to feel strongly about the views of another professional. You have a right to hold and express differing views, provided you do so in a respectful way and recognize the right of others to do the same.

A man and a woman chatting in an office.

Be ready to back up your opinions
When expressing an opinion in opposition to another member, you should be prepared to explain your data, methodology and any other factors that contributed to your conclusions.

Prepare to be collaborative
There may be times when you replace, are replaced by or consult with another member. Be ready to answer questions and share accurate, well-supported data and documents in a timely manner – assuming it is not proprietary in nature and reasonable compensation is provided.