Contract Tip

Why Sign A Deal Memo When
The Basic Agreement Exists?

by Patrick Gregston

One of the mysteries of the hiring process we all go through is the deal memo. Since the contract is negotiated and agreed to by both the producers and your representatives, the deal memo process serves only as an opportunity for you to improve on the contract.

The rules are clear. "You can't work for less than scale, and you can't give up rights you have won in the collective bargaining agreement," is how Guild field rep. Mike Breddan puts it, "But you can do better."

Any member who mistakenly signs an agreement in which they are paid below the contract, or without the full benefits, can rectify their situation. If you today are working for pay or benefits which do not meet the contract, you have several courses of action with which to rectify the situation.

You can speak to your employer to say you made a mistake. Let them know the nature of the error. Often this can be as simple as speaking with the payroll accountant.

You can call the Guild office. Your field representatives can help you figure out the best way to handle correcting your situation. They have lots of experience with these situations, as well as your employers.

In cases where your payroll is handled by a payroll service company, you can call that company.

In any case, you do not have to fear being fired for asking for the production to fulfill its obligations under the contract.

If you have an idea, or a question regarding the contract or negotiating a deal, that you would like addressed in a future issue of the Newsletter, please write Linda Dove c/o the Guild office: 7715 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90046.