DO NOT Sign that Speaker’s Contract

Shielding Your Thought Leadership: Essential Contract Considerations | I Am What an Intellectual Property Attorney Looks Like.

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Don’t sign that contract.

At least, not just yet.

As a social impact founder, thought leader, and attorney, I've encountered numerous scenarios where bright minds unknowingly step into legal snares.

A particularly vivid memory comes from a client who, in the thrill of being invited to a prestigious event, nearly signed away rights crucial to her thought leadership platform.

It was a wake-up call to the importance of vigilance and legal awareness in every contract.

So in this Founders’ Letter, let’s discuss three tips that could shield your intellectual property and ensure your voice remains uniquely yours.

Ready? 

Let’s get into it.

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But First, Church Announcements

Excitement is building at Firm for the Culture as we invite you to a cutting-edge session: "The AI Factor: Amplifying Thought Leadership with Intellectual Property." 

This one-hour workshop will unravel how AI reshapes creation, innovation, and the legal landscape of intellectual property (IP).

AI & IP Uncovered: Amplifying Your Impact

Date: Thursday, April 18, 2024
Time: 9:15 AM PST | 12:15 PM EST
Location: LinkedIn Audio Event

Designed for entrepreneurs, innovators, and thought leaders, this session dives into the intersection of AI-generated content and IP rights, addressing critical questions like:

• Can AI-generated content be trademarked?

• How does copyright law interface with AI creations?

• Who's liable for AI-generated content?

What You’ll Gain:

• Insights into IP Laws: Grasp the current framework and its implications for your work.

• Strategies Against Legal Risks: Learn to navigate and mitigate potential legal issues.

• Ethical and Practical Guidance: Reflect on the ethical use of AI and discover how to leverage IP rights effectively.

This session is your opportunity to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of AI and IP. Perfect for those eager to protect their innovative contributions and enhance their thought leadership.

Secure Your Spot Now: Join us for a journey into the heart of AI, IP, and thought leadership. 

Register here and prepare to transform your understanding and strategic approach to AI-generated content and its protection.

We can't wait to explore these pivotal topics with you and equip you with the knowledge to lead confidently in the age of artificial intelligence.

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Your “To-Do” Before Your TedX:

When you're offered a chance to share your insights on a grand stage, the opportunity can be exhilarating.

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However, in the rush, crucial details can be overlooked—details that pertain to your rights and your legacy.

Let's explore three critical elements every thought leader should consider before signing a speaker's contract.

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1. Understanding Payment Terms:

It's not just about if you will get paid, but how and when.

Ensure your contract specifies not only the honorarium but also covers travel expenses, and outlines the payment method and timeline.

Negotiating advance payment can secure your commitment and offer financial security before the event.

Additionally, clarify whether payment is conditional upon certain deliverables or outcomes to avoid any post-event surprises.

Your talent and time are valuable; make sure they're compensated accordingly.

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2. Safeguarding Your Intellectual Property:

Your intellectual contributions—whether they're in the form of keynote speeches, interactive workshops, or insightful articles—are the essence of your thought leadership.

Understand the extent of rights you might be giving up and negotiate terms that allow you to retain control over how your content is used or repurposed.

For example, if your contract includes clauses that grant the event organizers exclusive rights to your presentations, consider whether you can limit this to a specific time frame or use context.

Balancing the visibility opportunities against the need to protect your intellectual assets is key.

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3. Clarifying Recording + Photography Rights:

In this digital age, content can be captured and shared globally in seconds.

It’s critical to understand who owns the content once the shutter clicks or the record button is pressed.

In fact, I still recall when Justin Bieber faced copyright infringement for posting a photo of himself on his Instagram account, highlighting the complexities of copyright laws.

Make sure your contract precisely details permissions for recording and photography, and consider hiring an independent professional to capture your performance, ensuring you retain ownership and control over the distribution of these materials.

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Conclusion: Your Thoughts, Your Creations, Your Rights.

Securing a spot on the speaking circuit offers an incredible platform to amplify your impact. 

Yet, safeguarding the intellectual property you share is essential for maintaining the integrity and value of your work.

Remember, your contributions to thought leadership and social impact are not just momentary; they are part of a larger legacy that you are building. 

Always approach each speaking opportunity with a strategic mindset, armed with a clear understanding of your rights and how best to protect them.

#ForTheCulture

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Let's Discuss:

Have you ever encountered a challenging contract situation? 

How do you ensure your intellectual property is protected while sharing your insights? 

Your experiences could provide invaluable lessons for fellow thought leaders navigating similar paths.

If you're in need of guidance on protecting your intellectual property, my team at Firm for the Culture is here to support you. 

Together, we can ensure that your voice, your ideas, and your impact resonate far and wide, protected under the law.

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Can’t wait to help you protect your dynamic impact.

#ForTheCulture

And #ThatsAWrap

The Doors of the Church Firm Are Open 

Thanks for reading.

See you next time.

#ForTheCulture