The Ethics of Online Training #47

Nov 3, 2020

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The Ethics of Online Training (Online Trainer Show #47)

Is it ethical to make Jonathan touch his toes if they hurt? This is a complicated question, so we may or may not come back to it. In this new episode, the crew avoids the toe question and instead focuses on the ethics of online training. They discuss the confidentiality of client information, how powerful white lies can be, and the foundational ideas on which online training is built.

In This Episode:

Amber talks about sharing client information [18:24]
Carolina’s two principles of ethical training [20:56]
Jonathan discusses the impact of bias and lying [28:39]
What are the core principles that guide online training? [31:45]
Why you should never badmouth other coaches and their industry [36:28]
How to use your clients’ experiences with other coaches to get better [39:46]
Don’t be afraid to talk to experts, as that will demonstrate your humility and willingness to learn outside of your expertise [40:59]

“When you are dishonest in any way - even in small ways, it erodes trust. The erosion of trust is a really damaging thing.”

- Jonathan Goodman

Keep It Professional

If one of your clients has had amazing results and you want to share those results to inspire other clients, tread carefully. In general, keep that info between you and that client. Better safe than sorry.

Wait, the Tooth Fairy Isn’t Real?

Remember the quote “Honesty is the best policy”? It’s true, even with white lies. They may seem innocent at first, but if you create a habit of dishonesty, you will slowly erode trust between your clientele and become “one of those trainers”.

Be a Lifelong Learner

One of the most humbling and powerful statements is “I don’t know.” Why? Saying that phrase tells everyone, including yourself, that you’re keenly aware of your skillset, which empowers you to broaden it. Say, you may know all about squats but nothing about autoimmune diseases, but by saying “I don’t know”, you’re motivated to collaborate with experts and expand your knowledge, which will build rock-solid trust with your clients.

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