What does nepotism refer to in the context of hiring practices?

Nepotism refers to the practice of giving preferential treatment to relatives or friends when making hiring or promotion decisions. This often involves hiring family members regardless of their qualifications or suitability for the position. In many professional settings, nepotism can lead to conflicts of interest and may undermine the integrity of the hiring process, as it prioritizes personal relationships over merit and professional qualifications. The focus on hiring relatives can result in a less competitive work environment, hampering the potential for diverse talents to emerge. Other options, such as favoring employees based on merit, promoting diversity in the workplace, or ensuring equal opportunities, do not accurately describe nepotism, as they emphasize fairness and equal treatment rather than favoritism based on familial connections.