As a professional reader you may agree that we should try to
reflect the standards of any other profession, especially when
it comes to client confidentiality. When a person hires you
for a reading, you can be sure that they don't intend to have
their reading discussed in public.
Due to the lack of regulation in the psychic services industry,
this is a matter of personal business ethics. But unless you had
a client's permission to do so, why would you broadcast your
client's private information? If you knew that a reader were
going to talk about your reading without your permission in a
public or private forum, how likely would you be to use their
services? I've seen this a lot and I think most clients would be
horrified.
Why is confidentiality important? The most important reason
is your right to own your personal information and concerns.
The second reason is to create trust in a professional relationship
setting. Third is that with the already negative stereotypes
associated with psychics, does "gossip" need to be added to
that list? Talking about tarot or "talking shop" with other readers
is one thing, but giving out the details of a private reading is another.
Topics that could be considered confidential can include:
- Information about one's future plans
- Advice/suggestions to overcome problems
- Family Problems
- Personal Care/Health Issues
- Employment/Employer Information
- Financial Problems
- Personal correspondence/emails/texts
- Romantic Issues, Sexual Lifestyles
Lastly, keep in mind that many of your clients are following
you on Twitter, Facebook, etc. Some of them have referred
you to their close associates, and just because you are not
mentioning names doesn't mean that people can't figure
out who you are talking about.
The best practice in this case is to have a "confidentiality"
conversation with your client. They may assume that you won't
disclose the details of their private reading, but think of the
problems that could potentially arise. I read at many events
where there are often people sitting around listening to others
get readings. I always ask the querent if they need privacy
or mind if others listen in. Sometimes it cannot be helped
for space reasons. But whether they are aware of it or not,
clients need and assume some assurance of confidentiality.
