Define "conflict of interest".

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual's personal interests have the potential to improperly influence their professional responsibilities or decisions. This could manifest in scenarios where personal gain is prioritized over the interests of the organization or where outside relationships could compromise professional judgment. Option C accurately captures this definition by highlighting the potential interference of personal interests with professional obligations, illustrating the core issue of a conflict of interest.

In contrast, other choices do not align with this concept. The first option describes a harmonious situation where organizational goals take precedence, which does not involve any conflicting interests. The second option focuses on clarity and prioritization in professional obligations, which implies no conflicts are present. The final option suggests a positive outcome of enhanced collaboration, which is unrelated to the idea of conflicts of interest. Thus, defining a conflict of interest hinges on recognizing how personal interests can disrupt the ethical standards expected in professional settings.