Sadly, It Needs To Be Said: (Patreon)

Don't let anyone abuse, gaslight, or take advantage of you.

I mean, just in general, but also in the ttRPG industry.

Not even if they're popular, or working toward a goal you ultimately support, or you think the exposure is good for you, or they are friends of your friends.

Certainly, don't let me do it. Don't let "big names" or "big companies" do it. Don't assume that you are at fault, because you don't know how the industry "really works."

And here, let me talk contracts.

Get a contract before *any* work begins. Read your contracts. If something seems unclear, as for clarification. If you need to, pay a lawyer to go over your contract.

But the main purpose at small-scale publishing is to get everyone on the same page.

What work is being done? Who owns what rights to it? What is being paid? When? What are the options if some element of the contract doesn't happen as described?

Contracts don't solve all issues, but they can avoid a ton of them.

Make sure if you have expenses that need to be recouped, they are in the contract. Ownership of every element should be covered. Not everything is work for hire, and know what it means if it is. If something is pay upon acceptance, define how long someone has to accept.

And if someone mistreats you over asking your contract be enforced, keep track of their behavior. It can be hugely useful if a court gets involved, or they badmouth you later in your career.

I advise avoiding snark, sarcasm, and swearing in professional communication.

No one deserves to be abused for asking for reasonable contracts and work conditions.

Sadly if you don't protect yourself, there's a good chance no one else will come help.

Value your right to be treated well.