Culture permeates an organization from the top. The guy probably just followed the tacit business practice, but was clumsy about it due to his age and inexperience.
I mean, Michael Arrington takes equity in return for publicity, this guy took a MacBook Air. What exactly is the difference?
Quite simply, the difference is that Michael would tell you about it. When you're aware or relationship or bias, you can (somewhat) mentally adjust for it.
I mean, Michael Arrington takes equity in return for publicity, this guy took a MacBook Air. What exactly is the difference?