Animation Guild | We are 839 Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1516015
4 KEYFRAME L E T T E R In the early days of my animation career, starting in my mid-20s, I hesitated to ask specific questions about job offers. The thrill of contributing to movies that my family and friends would eventually watch overshadowed my concerns about delving into details about pay and benefits. The fear of being perceived as a troublemaker and potentially jeopardizing opportunities held me back. As the years passed, I learned a valuable lesson—the importance of a written agreement known as a Deal Memo. Without this document outlining crucial information, I realized I was doing myself a disservice, leaving room for misunderstandings between myself and the studio. It became evident that fostering clear communication through negotiation is an integral part of the hiring process. Over time, I discovered that not only does this benefit me personally, but it also contributes to building a robust professional network that extends beyond the confines of a single studio. In the animation industry, where times have proven challenging, many artists and production workers are grappling with tough decisions. Some are exploring opportunities outside our field, while others are accepting positions at levels below their previous roles. The downward shift in job positions exerts pressure on wages, making it crucial for us to be aware of our rights. Fortunately, our Union contract serves as a safeguard, ensuring wage minimums that provide a level of stability during uncertain times. Irrespective of where you stand in your career, it's imperative, at any stage, to secure a clear and comprehensible written agreement. Taking the time to review a Deal Memo thoroughly ensures that the offered wage aligns with The Animation Guild's standards, and that you are fully aware of the job description you're committing to. Understanding the benefit hours associated with your position, as defined by your job code in the Union contract, sets the groundwork for a transparent employer-employee relationship. Whether you remain in animation or transition to a different industry, engaging in a frank conversation with your employer about wages, benefits, working conditions, and performance expectations becomes paramount in making informed decisions. This dialogue not only aids in your decision-making process but also provides a roadmap for the dynamics of your professional relationship. In Solidarity, Jeanette Moreno King | President The Animation Guild, IATSE Local 839 NEGOTIATING YOUR ANIMATION CAREER THE POWER OF CLARITY IN DEAL MEMOS ON THE COVER For Orion and the Dark, Visual Development Artist Emily Tetri drew the images for the notebook where the character Orion chronicles his fears.