Reading a Contract Vs Five Mile Hike!

13 July, 2007 - General Business - 2 Comments

Many of you will know that after 12 years as a young member of the Scout Movement, I am now a Scout leader, running an adventurous and challenging bi-weekly program for 14-18 year old young people.

Not too long ago I taught them a lesson. A lesson which I had been taught many years earlier as a Scout. The lesson? Always read through the entirety of a document before acting!

My Lesson!

Here is how I learnt this important lesson.

Like Scouts do, we were told we were going on a hike. Not a normal hike, though. We had a list of questions, and the only way to find the answer to each question was by looking at things along the route (Bus stop numbers. The price of a pint at X pub etc).

There were several teams doing the hike, and my team happened to be the last in line to set off. Off went all the teams before us, and when they had all gone, a friend in my group nudged me… “Jamie, look at this last question!”. Here is what it said:

If you’re reading this, there is/was no need to go on the hike. We have drinks, food and games setup for you upstairs. Don’t tell the other teams!

While all the other groups were slogging through a five mile hike, we were enjoying some football and food. I only wish I could have seen their reaction when they got to the final ‘question’! :lol:

Always read to the end of a document before you take action! A contract. A proposal. A set of questions! Read, and find out what is really expected of you!

When was the last time you read through a contract? If you can’t remember, answer this question; When was the last time you prepared yourself for one almighty bite on the ass? Because that’s what will happen if you don’t take five minutes to read what you’re signing!

P.S. My thanks go to Mike Harrop (of no relation) from Switzerland who bought me a beer earlier today. I know it will pain you to hear your donation will be spent on cheap lady lager, but thanks all the same. :D

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Posted on 13 July, 2007 by Jamie Harrop
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2 Comments»

Comment by chrisblogging.com
2007-07-16 19:36:39

I was just reading through a couple of contracts this morning. It is funny you mention this because I obsess over every last detail; which is a good thing I guess!

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Comment by Jason
2007-07-21 23:08:09

I read through every contract I sign. Otherwise you could in fact be signing your life way. lol

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