After another week on the road speaking, I had the chance to pitch in with the I6 on some ideas for how to take care of people like me. Below are a few of my favorites.

What I deserve:

• Stop asking me for my slides so you can copy and distribute – you are only perpetuating ‘death by powerpoint’ – ask for handouts (in fact, insist on actual handouts)
• Ask me how I’m attending to adult learning principles, yes I should know some of those…
• Give me context, it might be fun to watch me walk into ideological chopper-blades in front an audience, but trust me – It’s only a short term thrill.
• I am not a superhero – one hour (or even one day) of my wisdom will not resolve all of your internal conflicts, solve world hunger, or re-imagine your industry.  Stop asking — or pay more.
• Evaluate me – I want to get better, make sure I get feedback.

What you deserve:

• Sure, I’m a great writer, a ton of fun to speak with on the phone, or perhaps you’ve seen me on TV, double check that I can actually speak (it’s different).
• Good speakers are an investment.  If I am giving the speech for free – you might get what you pay for.  If you are paying me, I’d better deliver.
• Having me at an event should elevate both of us.  I should feel enriched for having met your group, and you should feel like I respected your audience, your mission and work.

For the whole list, visit the clever folks at The Impossible 6.