In my speaker coaching business I have a two-page document that spells out the rules of the road. It defines my professional relationship with the speaker, outlines our objectives, sets policy and assigns accountability. It’s brief but detailed, pretty serious and well thought out based on my experiences inside of coaching relationships.

However, upon seeing it a number of speakers have referred to it as ‘strict’ or ‘hard.’ I’m sure I’ve even discouraged a few prospective professional relationships based on similar reactions. The truth is, I’m not nearly that strict or hard when it comes to the real relationship and my usual response is, “The rules only apply if being a nice guy isn’t working.”

Being flexible and accommodating makes for positive relationships – business and personal – as long as everybody’s playing by the rules. But it’s nearly impossible to hold someone accountable if they insist on playing by the exceptions.

It’s said that people will treat you how you teach them to. My guidelines have come from my experience with those who don’t play by the rules – and I guess it’s my attempt at teaching them how to treat me. It also helps me to recognize which relationships are best for me, because the people who play by the rules are the ones who don’t need them. And we get along just fine.

PEACE.
Rick

“Don’t Quote Me” – An original thought born of my own experiences. It may or may not be an original quote, so don’t try to sue me. (#BeOriginal)

Wanna check out those Speaker Coaching Guidelines?