What do you do if a vendor asks interview questions about intellectual property rights?

1 Assess Intent

Before you dive into answering questions about intellectual property rights, take a moment to assess the vendor's intent. It's essential to understand why they are asking these questions. Are they trying to ensure their product or service doesn't infringe on your IP? Or are they looking for detailed information that could potentially be sensitive? By discerning their motives, you can tailor your response to provide them with the necessary information without disclosing any proprietary details that could put your company's IP at risk.

2 Prepare Answers

When faced with questions about intellectual property rights from a vendor, it's vital to have prepared answers. This preparation involves understanding your company's IP policies and what information can be shared without compromising security. You should be able to explain the basics of your IP rights, such as patents or trademarks, while avoiding specifics that could lead to unintentional sharing of protected details. It's a balancing act between being informative and protective.

3 Set Boundaries

It's crucial to set clear boundaries when discussing intellectual property with vendors. Clearly communicate what information is off-limits and why it's sensitive. If a vendor presses for more details than you're comfortable providing, politely but firmly explain that you can't disclose more due to confidentiality agreements or company policies. Setting these boundaries early on will help prevent misunderstandings and protect your intellectual property.

4 Legal Considerations

Always keep legal considerations in mind when discussing intellectual property rights with vendors. If necessary, involve your legal team to ensure that all communications are compliant with IP law and your company's legal policies. Sometimes, it might be appropriate to have vendors sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) before engaging in detailed discussions about your company's IP. This step can help safeguard your assets while allowing for more open dialogue.

5 Build Trust

Building trust with vendors is key when discussing sensitive topics like intellectual property rights. Demonstrate that you value their partnership and are willing to share information within reason. This approach can foster a collaborative relationship where both parties feel respected and protected. Trust is foundational in vendor relations, especially when it comes to handling proprietary information.

6 Follow Up

After the interview, it's prudent to follow up with the vendor to clarify any outstanding concerns regarding intellectual property rights. This follow-up can be in the form of an email summarizing what was discussed and reiterating any boundaries set during the conversation. It ensures that both parties are on the same page and that there is a written record of what was agreed upon regarding the sharing of IP information.