So I learned yesterday that in a certain organization if my name comes up as a potential speaker, the auto-response is "she likes to get paid" and they move on.

Notably, this org doesn't even cover travel costs for speakers.

1/

I LOVE that this org may move on to consider other people who can offer diversity and richness of thought and experience. Yes! PLEASE move on to consider these people.

Also, at the very least cover their travel expenses.

2/

Many people will contribute incredible value at great personal cost in bandwidth for absolutely zero in return, believing in the notion that "exposure" will help them.

And, it may.

And, it may not.

This calculus is personal.

3/

And, it can be a much harder one for those who aren't already in the clique in question. (Yes, legal innovation/tech has cliques. So does legal academia, etc.)

I know folks who've invested incredible time & personal resources for orgs—including the one in question —

4/

in the hope that doing so will further their professional network & prospects.

Those who are least likely to benefit are often those who give the most: those of us w/ diverse backgrounds and experience.

I know this because these are my people and I see how much they give.

5/

I give freely (as in for free and lots and lots of time) to organizations that align with my values and mission.

And, if I gave so freely to everyone who asked, I could create like 3 full-time jobs doing this work.

We all make choices about how we want to spend our time

6/

and I certainly pay attention to how orgs treat those who give so generously & freely to create value especially when the power dynamics are obvious.

I work hard to create opportunities for others where I know their contribution will be valued in ways that are meaningful.
7/

And I encourage others to consider how you can construct your own calculus to determine what you can give, and who you want to give to, and how this fits within your values and your mission.

It's really easy to say YES! and it's also really nice to be wanted!

8/

And, you are a diamond. Not everyone can afford you.

You bring incredible value.

Make sure that you are valued in return, in whatever form means most to you.

9/9

Postscript: regarding the org referenced in tweet #1 of this thread, I've been asked once to appear on a panel at one of its events and I had a conflict so declined. I've never had a convo w/ anyone w/ the org about speaking or fees or anything.

The power of Twitter, I guess.