Conflicts of interest between rational thinkers within a free society shouldn't happen. It is in the individual's self interest to think and produce. Everyone wins because of that production. Social harmony is enhanced. Production increases the supply of goods and services for all.
Conflicts of interest can only occur when a human uses emotion or irrational thought.
We must take into account that in some cases, emotions have been pre-programmed by the results of previous rational thought.
If someone applies for a job but is not qualified, and someone more qualified gets the job, that's not a conflict of interest.
If someone gets a job at the expense of someone who is better qualified, that constitutes a conflict of interest. What created the conflict of interest needs to be investigated and corrected.
If two applicants with the same skills and experiences apply for the same job, the employer must decide which applicant to hire. This process is the exclusive right of the employer and cannot be considered a conflict.