It only conflicts with the norm of “do what’s most effective” if it truly is more effective to donate to one’s own employer. But because of the signaling/weirdness reasons (and, yes, the bias) that doesn’t seem to be true. We’re sophisticated enough that we can have a hierarchy of norms, with “do what’s most effective” at the top and “don’t donate to your employer unless there’s a special circumstance” as a lower norm—as a helpful heuristic/guideline.
The only reason affecting giving is doing what’s most effective. So the norm you’re proposing for employer donations should never come into effect. Every rational person who donates to their employer will claim that it’s a most effective use of their money.
The only reason affecting giving is doing what’s most effective. So the norm you’re proposing for employer donations should never come into effect. Every rational person who donates to their employer will claim that it’s a most effective use of their money.