Finding a Cover for Yourself on Set

Working on Set

While on hold, booked, or currently working on a project there is always a potential that you'll have to step off that project to persue greater opportunities. Here are the steps in replacing yourself on a project.

Before you even let anyone know you are not available, do the following:

• Call to find someone to Cover

It's best to find someone who has a similar skill level as you or greater. If the rate is low and you are taking a higher-paid job, it's not your fault if they are a little more inexperienced. If it is a multiple day job you need a cover for, hold out for someone who is available all the days.

• Tell them all of the details

Rate of pay, hours they will work, date, location, and confirm their availability.

• Put them on a "Hold"

It should be clear that the job is not yet awarded to your cover and that someone from the project will reach out to them to book. Also communicate that should the cover get a counter offer for the day(s) to cover you or that they are no longer avilable to let you know as soon as possible so you can find someone else available.

• Let the person you're working for know you are no longer available and that you have a cover.

• Notify the person in the next higher position

Direct communication is best either in person or over the phone. If you are a technician tell the best tech. If you are the best tech tell the department head. If you are a department head such as Key Grip or Gaffer tell the DP.

• Offer your cover on hold as a replacement

By offering up a cover at the time that you tell people that you are not available, you take away any potential stress of finding someone to work the job. Leave this open as an option to those working above you, they might take your cover or want to find someone they want to work with instead.

• Timing

Even if you are booked on the second project, waiting until a few days before the cover dates is important. It is common that a job will go away, so this will prevent the unpleasant situation of going from 2 jobs to 0 jobs. 2-3 days before your first day is best.

• Tell Production

If you are a tech usually you will not have to talk with production directly, the best tech or department head will do so. If you are a department head and those working just above you have been notified a cover has been deptermined you'll need to tell production about the situation. initial conversation directly either in person or over the phone is best, which can be followed up by an email with contact info for the person who is covering you.

• Communication

In general, speaking directly to people gives the communication a personal touch and can help reinforce relationships.

• NOTE!

If anyone guilt trips you for "bailing" on them you might want to question if you want to continue to work with those who do not want you to advance your career.