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Fran McClellan · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 9:11 am Post subject: 1 offs vs. tags

Hi Everyone! It's been a long time since I've posted anything here (took a bit of a sabbatical from VO and just now getting back into it). I usually can find the answers I need here with a search (and thanks for that BTW Laugh

), but couldn't find anything about the difference between a 1 off and a tag.

I just did a few jobs for a client. First was the main spot and then there were 2 other sessions after that of what I would consider tags (intros and outros were essentially the same, but different names). I submitted my invoice and charged session fee + per tag rate (at a discounted rate due to the amount of tags). Now they are saying they thought these were going to be 1 offs and they're surprised at how I invoiced them. I just want to be clear on the difference before I reply.

Thanks in advance!
Fran

Philip Banks · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 9:46 am Post subject:

I know what a tag or tag change means but am unsure about a "one-off".

Bob's Diner -
Tag 1 - Opens on Thursday.
Tag 2 - Opens tomorrow.
Tag 3 - Opens a 7pm today
Tag 4 - Now open

On UK radio that would be treated as 4 commercials. If they wanted to use "Bob's Diner" without the tags that would make it 5 in total. Ok, now what is a "one-off"?

Bruce · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 9:55 am Post subject:

A hard and fast rule for clients and talents should be: Always establish the rates, especially for multi-part projects, in advance so there are no questions later. However we often don't and it often leads to questions and maybe even unpleasantness (I speak from experience.....s).

You're right that you should get some kind of base fee for just showing up for a second session and then tag type rates for all these bits and pieces. One of my agents insists on full spot rate for the first new tag and then standard tag rates for all the others. Of course if you negotiate some other rate plan in advance then that's cool too.

But now that you've stepped into this zone, friendly negotiation is best. Just let them know you want to establish a rate structure that leaves both of you satisfied. Tell them where you come from, let them tell you what they expect, and then seek middle ground.

B
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Bruce · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 9:59 am Post subject:

Fran McClellan · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 12:43 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the responses. Pretty much confirmed what I was thinking...just needed to make sure Laugh

I responded to the client that I considered the lines they sent me as tags and invoiced as such. I also noted that I value their business and said I'm sure we can come up with a compromise if the rate is over their budget. I don't want to lose the client (they give repeat business, are easy to work with, pay quickly, etc), but I also don't want to set a bad precedent by charging less than my normal rates (which I consider pretty reasonable).

Thanks again Smile

Fran

anthonyVO · 14th Avenue Joined: 09 Aug 2005 Posts: 1470 Location: NYC

Initially, when you state your rate, do it without offering to compromise in order to "meet budget." That should be your reply to their counter if and when they counter. It weakens your rate and basically says, "My rate is lower, but I would *love* it if you could pay me more."

Good luck.

-Anthony

ConnieTerwilliger · Posted: Mon Mar 15, 2010 11:21 pm Post subject:

Could they possibly have meant that you were not billing enough? To me a one-off stands alone.
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ballenberg · Posted: Tue Mar 16, 2010 6:46 am Post subject:

I'm thinking what Connie's thinking. One-off. A single spot. So, maybe they were thinking each one is a single spot. Like Philip's setup.

Wouldn't that be a beaut ? If they thought you weren't charging enough!! I'm sure that could be remedied.

melissa eX · Posted: Tue Mar 16, 2010 8:50 am Post subject:

If you do reduce your rate - a good tip for all - you should invoice the full rate and then give a "courtesy discount". This way you're not compromising the integrity of your rates - and it's clear to all (including new people in the event of turnover) what the rates really are.

Fran McClellan · Posted: Tue Mar 16, 2010 10:50 am Post subject:

It seems they thought I would just charge as 1 spot. They only planned on using 1 of the lines (although, I did mention that their end user sent me what looked to be lines for more than one) Mello

They have already booked for more sessions (yay!) and the whole thing was amicable. Plus, we have already worked out the exact fees for future sessions, so hopefully this won't happen again. Live and learn Wink

Thanks again for the input Smile