Effective Communication via Walkie Talkies
Walkie talkies are essential tools on set for interacting with coworkers. Understanding their etiquette is crucial for smooth operations.
Equipment Overview
Walkie Talkies and Surveillance
- Walkie Talkie: You’ll be provided with a fully charged walkie talkie at the start of the day.
- Surveillance: This is an earpiece with a speaker and a clip-on microphone for discreet communication.
Navigating the Right Channels
- Channel Selection: Use the appropriate channel based on the department or purpose. For example, channel one is for production, channel two for extended conversations, and other channels are designated for specific departments.
- Initiating Contact: To reach someone, go to the correct channel and say their name. For instance, “Kyle for Randall.” Wait for a response before proceeding.
Ensuring Clear Conversations
- Initial Call: Press the microphone button for a second before speaking. If there’s no response, try again.
- Response Waiting: Wait for the person to acknowledge with “Go for [Name]” before conveying your message.
- Longer Conversations: If a detailed discussion is needed, instruct the person to switch to channel two.
End of Day Protocol
Handling Equipment Responsibly
- Return Walkie Talkie: At day’s end, return the walkie talkie to production for charging.
- Keep Surveillance: Typically, you keep your surveillance earpiece for the entire shoot due to hygiene concerns, returning it only at the end.
Maintaining Professionalism and Hygiene
Proper use of walkie talkies ensures efficient communication on set. Remembering the channel protocols and maintaining hygiene with personal equipment is part of professional set conduct.
