Clubs are reminded that the NCPF Directory contains guidelines which should be followed when booking lecturers or judges. Several members have commented recently that clubs are not adhering to the guidelines. The following is a note received from one member:
"I know that this is a subject that has been mentioned on a number of occasions over the years, however, I feel it is worth mentioning once again as I think it is becoming more of an issue. It concerns the way some clubs handle lecturers and judges.
1) If booked by a telephone call, the booking must be confirmed by letter or email.
2) A reminder must be sent a couple of weeks before the event and should include directions.
3) It shows a lack of respect to ignore photographic distinctions. They should be included on the syllabus/programme and mentioned in the introduction on the night.
4) A letter of thanks should be sent within a week of the talk/judging session.
I have spoken to a lot of people from various clubs recently and it appears that the above four points are not being carried out with the result that the lecturer ends up contacting the club for information.
Failure to do any of the above actions shows a lack of respect for the lecturer or judge. I feel it is essential to take action before this lack of courtesy and general sloppiness gets any worse.
Incidentally some of the people I have spoken to from various clubs have admitted that they will not return to clubs who do not acknowledge distinctions and send letters of thanks and we want more people on the lecturers/judging lists rather than losing them. I have already refused to revisit one club who did not fulfil any of the points above and also did not give me a vote of thanks. After all highly committed lecturers and judges freely give up their own time to provide this vitally important service to clubs."
Please ensure that your club treats lecturers and judges courteously.
Editor