Ethics of Presentations
The issue of ethics has reared it’s head this week.
Does a handshake along with a verbal commitment mean that a contract is in place? I believe it does.
When a better offer comes along does the original commitment (see above) become void? I don’t believe so.
Simplistic? Yes. Easy to live by? For some, not so much.
As a public speaker and a presenter do you have an obligation to speak your truth and not what your audience wants to hear? I believe so.
When a presenter doesn’t deliver as promised should they be paid or take their just desserts in bad reviews? I think both.
Everyday we are all challenged. Do the right thing or take the money.
Reputation and conscience last forever. Dollars and their trappings don’t.
To Your Voice,
Janice
Tags: ethics, presenters, public speaking
Good points I agree with.
The handshake works both ways. Sometimes the offer comes off the table after the speaker verbally and mentally committed to it.
Best to always, for both sides, have it in writing.
Thanks for the Post!
I hear you Fred – yes we live in a world where contracts are necessary. But…I still prefer to do business with people whose handshake I trust. Those are my closest circle of colleagues, clients, and friends and the people who I never hesitate to recommend.