Negotiating

Expendables

Expendables in Film: Costs & Considerations Expendables are a common cost for sound mixers and other crew members, encompassing items like batteries, windscreens, and various tapes. Types of Expendables Expendables are items used for a limited time before being discarded, such as overcovers, Joe’s Sticky Stuff, Moleskin, and medical tape. Lavaliere windscreens and caps can …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Deal Memo Basics

Deal Memo Basics: Protecting Your Interests in Film Productions A deal memo is crucial for outlining the terms of your agreement with a client in film production, helping protect both parties’ interests. Four Key Components of a Deal Memo Pay rate for your labor Pay rate for your gear Travel costs (if applicable) Payment terms …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Per Diem

Per Diem Per diem is a fee provided to crew members, typically when working out of town. Although often mistaken for a meal allowance, it serves a broader purpose. The Purpose of Per Diem Per diem compensates you for the inconveniences of being away from home, such as needing to buy essential items or facing …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Travel Time & Travel Days

Travel Time & Travel Days Travel Time and Travel Days are important factors to consider when working in the film industry, as they impact both your schedule and income. Valuing Your Travel Time It’s essential to value the time spent traveling, whether it’s by car, train, or air, to reach a job site. While short …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Dealing with Payment Terms

Dealing with Payment Terms Payment terms describe when and for how long you will be paid for your services in the film industry. They can vary significantly, ranging from being paid at the end of the shoot to receiving half upfront with the balance due later, or even payment after 30 days. Labor and Gear …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Always Be Negotiatin’

Always Be Negotiatin’ In the film industry, negotiation is a crucial skill that can lead to better opportunities and outcomes. This lesson will guide you through the process of negotiating with confidence and help you understand the potential benefits of effective bargaining. Always Practice and Improve Negotiation, like any other skill, requires practice and constant …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Practice Makes Perfect

Practice Makes Perfect Take advantage of every opportunity to hone your negotiation skills. For instance, when someone inquires about your availability for a date when you’re already booked, engage in the negotiation process as if you intend to take the job. This approach puts you in a strong negotiating position, as you have nothing to …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Gear vs Labor

Gear vs. Labor We’re all familiar with the term “all-in.” But it’s better to separate the two figures: labor on one side and gear on the other side. First of all, the gear costs exactly the same, whether its owner is a recent college graduate or an Oscar winner. What does this mean? That the …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production

Calculating Rental Rates

https://vimeo.com/https://vimeo.com/390688408 Calculating Rental Rates Determining appropriate rental rates for your equipment can be challenging. A good starting point is to reference your local rental house and consult with nearby colleagues. Charge the same or slightly more (3%-5%) than your local rental house, as you’ll be bringing the gear to the set and maintaining it in …

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Being Better Busines Savvy: Mastering Communication, Negotiation, and Financial Success in Film Production
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