Malcolm Gladwell discusses something he'll never do again

A tiny but useful mistake story by Malcolm Gladwell, from the disclosure page on his website - a fascinating document in its own right. Here he discusses one of the principles he uses to balance his roles as New Yorker writer and paid public speaker:

Any speaking I do should be just that—speaking. The possibility for trouble is much greater when a writer steps outside the role of giving a set speech and becomes a consultant or advisor, or in some ways develops a continuing financial arrangement with a specific company or organization. Once, I was asked to be a consultant to a marketing firm. I said yes—briefly—then immediately resigned when I realized the implications of that act. I will not do that again. Anything outside of simple speaking is inappropriate.

"I will not do that again" is a bright signal that this is a mistake story that had a significant impact on the teller.