Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: I Quit

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Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-26-2008, 08:25 PM:

Tonight, I quit my job as projection booth supervisor at my 7-plex. It was a matter of being forced out, really. I considered the choice between demotion, to "booth usher" at best, and to the floor more likely, and leaving to be no choice at all. I will post more within the next few days as a few things become more clear, both to me and my manager, whom I part with on good terms. I was just about to leave for my first vacation (more than 2 consecutive days outside of the theater) since March on Thursday, so we'll see how that pans out.

The one specific I will give is that my predicament is the result of some higher up taking offense at my postings here on Film-Tech. Rather than promoting me for doing research off the clock to apply to my work on the clock and for my obvious unparalleled passion for projection, I was banned from booth until they decided what to do with me. When, tonight, I was informed of this, I responded that that being the case, I quit. As far as I know, I have made no insulting or derogatory remarks about corporate officers, only about a few of the pieces of equipment that were, factually, subpar. Without leaving Film-Tech, could anyone who does not have prior knowledge of my theater tell me what company I even worked for?

To the person who "ratted me out" to the head tech, I hope you realize what you have done. My return to college may be put on hold until I find a job enough like the one I worked very hard for 16 months to create for myself. I would love for you to explain your actions to me so that I can explain the consequences of them.

In better news, I have begun to make contact at a potential employer, one where my posting here would be encouraged and recognized. That is all I will say on that front.

Lastly, Kurt, you were right. I even had the advantage of having probably the best manager in the company fighting for me, and it still happened.

Posted by Todd McCracken (Member # 4718) on 08-26-2008, 08:34 PM:

Sorry to hear about that, I too must be very careful what I post here. I would love to jump into the fray in the digital discussions however almost anything I would say would be covered under my non-disclosure agreement. So I limit almost all my postings to the film-yak section as that falls well outside the agreement.

Posted by Louis Bornwasser (Member # 3063) on 08-26-2008, 08:39 PM:

Touchy little bastards, aren't they? Louis

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-26-2008, 08:39 PM:

Ah, now I don't have a non disclosure agreement, not even an implicit one. Not that I would disclose what I felt to be delicate information, out of courtesy and loyalty to my manager, but nobody ever told me what I couldn't say.

And Louis, yes, you'd probably know since you supply them. [Wink]

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-26-2008, 08:56 PM:

Some companies who have inferiority complexes about themselves do not like seeing employees posting here. Granted, if you are outright dogging them then I could see why any company would be upset, but I doubt that was the case in your situation. Regal does not allow their employees to post in the Film Handler's section... however they don't care if they post in the other sections. I guess they don't want anyone to know that they have problems in the booth and choose to resolve them personally without any outside help. Even if you make no mention of Regal anywhere in your profile or any post, posting in the FHF is prohibited there. They will rape you in your ear and then fire you (though according to the company policy, the raping is optional and up to the discretion of the DM). Regal also has a policy of "though shalt not motor thy projector EVER" but does not buy automations which rely on start cues in order to eliminate the issue altogether (though the Strong CNA series they buy can be rigged for a start cue), but I digress.

And no, I have no clue who you worked for. Didn't really care, either. Now, however, I am curious. Please let us know!

Posted by Joshua Waaland (Member # 287) on 08-26-2008, 09:01 PM:

In my experience, most theaters (especially the chains) I have worked for are as tight as a frog's ass (and that's water tight). They act like paying a projectionist, ahem...excuse me...."Usher B", more than minimum wage is against the laws of nature or something and they treat you like [bs]

.

I think the projectionist is the single most important job in a theater. If he doesn't show up or do his job right the bottom line suffers. I have no idea what post got you into trouble, but if what you say is true, I would love to have employess who enjoyed what they did. They will generally be better at their job because they care and have a spirit to learn.

I had to leave the theater business because my career was going nowhere fast. The most I could hope for was a management position and most managers I knew were underpaid, overworked and away from their families all the time. I'm glad I left. I dabbled in it again a few years ago as a part-time job before leaving for good. Now I just have my own equipment for the hobby but I do miss the job. Unfortunately, most theaters gave up caring about good presentation long ago and your just another minimum wage person to them.

Now I work for a medium size company and my boss lives six hours away in Indianapolis. Since he can't be in the office very often he promoted me to an operations management position. I started in the shipping/receiving department and worked my way up to here. Now I oversee the day to day operations of our US branch as well as manage five other employees. As of recent, my responsibilities also include quoting on and designing hundred thousand dollar automated welding systems. The perks are great and they pay for my car and all the related expenses too. I never would have those opportunities in the theater business. I would have stayed had they just paid decent and recognized people for their talents.

I'm glad you have another possible job lined up. I hope you get it but remember not to put all of your eggs in one basket. Soon the only jobs available in a theater will be management and concession/usher. Projectionists will eventually be a thing of the past. Might as well start investing your time in a job where you can grow and not be limited.

[ 08-27-2008, 12:38 AM: Message edited by: Joshua Waaland ]

Posted by Jason Black (Member # 684) on 08-26-2008, 09:29 PM:

Hate to hear of your situation.. but working for a company like that.. you're probably better off (in the long run) out of there anyway.

Odd that my posts never reared any heads at Carmike when I was there. The overwhelming majority of my posts were all on a professional level and, as best I recall, I never posted anything that would be 'protected' under a "no compete" clause.. or that would a "trade secret"...

I think that it boils down to exactly what kind of power trip and just how anal retentive your immediate and area supervisors/management are. Of course, anytime you are speaking out against the company in a public forum.. and not that you were, then there is cause for action on the company's part.

Good luck in your job search... [Smile]

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-26-2008, 09:30 PM:

Joe, not to be cryptic, but I am a little paranoid about what is going on right now. Although I uttered the words "I quit" a few times talking to my manager, I have never been in the position of having a race between quitting and being fired. I don't know what repercussions may be visited upon myself or my manager as a result of this, and I am not willing to risk him getting in trouble. In fact, this thread probably should've waited until things settle down. I hate making you guys go on wild Google chase, but I won't yet post the name of the company that screwed me, since I'm sure they're hanging on my every last word.

I could tell you some grueling stories about how I busted my ass to get where I was, but I'll just tell you were I was: I made about $8.50 an hour, working 35-40 hours a week for 16 months straight. I took two (obviously unpaid) vacations of less than a week in that space of time. The company wouldn't give us enough payroll to have a mere staffer like me in booth all the time, so I was stuck doing a floor shift a week to get enough hours to put food on my table. I certainly wasn't working there for the money, however, since I had never made less than I did there, except when I had made less there. I had, however, hit a glass ceiling. There were no more promotions available until a manager left, and I wasn't even learning much. I was the most knowledgeable projectionist at the theater level, and was getting minimal instruction from elsewhere (except Film-Tech).

All in all, if I can manage to hook up with another outfit soon, it will probably be for the best. But, I am hoping to not have to drop out of college again, and class starts next Wednesday, so my time frame is limited. At this point, I will take work where I can get it. I really don't want to go back to working at the steel factory. [Frown]

Posted by John Wilson (Member # 269) on 08-26-2008, 11:58 PM:

Galen,

Sorry to hear about that. I hope your new prospect works out well for you and you end up landing on your feet.

I had the interesting experience of 'someone' sending a printout one of my Film-Tech reviews (Mamma Mia! actually) to the owner of the theatre I work at recently.

He came to me and said he'd received this printout but he didn't know why. He said he had no problem with me being on Film-Tech and he was happy to have someone actively discussing the profession, helping others and having an opinion. He did point out to me he had no idea I was a 'Film God' though...

It got me a pay rise. [thumbsup]

So, to the dickhead who sent it (and I know who you are)...a big thanks to you from me.

Oh, and get some help you fuckwit. [fu]

Posted by Kurt Zupin (Member # 2751) on 08-27-2008, 12:37 AM:

Galen, sorry to hear about this. I know you don't want to say who you work for but I have no problem saying what a complete group of inept people they are. Goodrich "Quality" Theatres has got to have some of the most tight assed people on the planet. God forbid someone that works for them is trying to learn more and become a better teacher and worker.

[fu]

to GQT

Glad I jumped from that ship a long time ago.

disclaimer: There are some really good people in the company but not on the higher end.

Posted by Jeff Lacey (Member # 3217) on 08-27-2008, 02:02 AM:

Sorry to hear about your troubles. Just by reading your posts, I can see how much you cared about your job and how dedicated you were to it.

Its too bad that this particular company couldn't appreciate it. But I can't say that I am shocked.

[ 08-27-2008, 03:07 AM: Message edited by: Jeff Lacey ]

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 08-27-2008, 02:30 AM:

Sorry guy, but were just a 'number' in their operation..and that's all they cared about.

They didn't want anybody that knew more, or know "how" it should be run, all they wanted was for you to do a simple assigned position and be at that.

A lot of operations are like that with their employees: "Kittens in a pinecrate - dime a dozen" attitude.

Maybe you can tag a mgmt position somewhere down the road with another firm..

Good luck as always. - Monte

Posted by Sally Ann Burgess (Member # 4746) on 08-27-2008, 04:16 AM:

I had the same problems working for a cinema here in New Zealand, I now work for another cinema who are a lot more open to me looking for answers and doing research on my own time...though I am not allowed to say exactly who I work for. The problem with the first cinema I worked for was that we only had a contact in Australia when we ran into problems. Not exactly an ideal situation.

Posted by Jesse Skeen (Member # 586) on 08-27-2008, 04:24 AM:

Does Regal really "prohibit" their people posting in Film Handler's Forum? Wonder if that was before or after I worked for them? [Big Grin]

It's amazing how the 'higher-ups' have time to get mad at their people for inconsequential things that might actually help their operation in the end, but apparently have no problem with those who ruin their movie presentations.

Oh- and kittens aren't dime-a-dozen- they're smarter than most humans!

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-27-2008, 05:02 AM:

I doubt it is official written Regal policy, but it is one of those unwritten rules you likely find out about after your first post if they know who you are.

Posted by Mark J. Marshall (Member # 1409) on 08-27-2008, 08:46 AM:

Regal should spend more time trying to figure out how to keep their prints from scratching, their digital sound from dropping out and their SR tuned correctly. At least here in Delaware.

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 08-27-2008, 11:06 AM:

Sorry to hear this, Galen. If you are fired, at least you have a better chance at drawing unemployment insurance than if you quit.

From something you said earlier in this thread, I gathered who you might work for. Before that, however, I had no idea - and it didn't really matter. We're all just exchanging thoughts and ideas here, not conspiring to overthrow or cost anyone their jobs.

Good luck with the job search. You sound very interested in the technical aspects of this business. Start studying basic electronics (getting a ham license is a good beginning), then you can move into field service. Always a demand for that. I started one booth job in the 70s and didn't know the first thing about electricity or electronics. After a couple years of reading books in the booth (between changeovers), I'd learned enough electronics to get hired as a sub-contractor for Altec!

Posted by Bill Gabel (Member # 1105) on 08-27-2008, 12:22 PM:

Galen, Sorry to hear about what happened. It may have been that no one ratted you out, but someone doing a search of your name on Yahoo or Google and it turning up a subject or posts you did on the FT site. And remember watch out what you post on the net, there are lurkers out there. And you should have waited or toned down your post till the dust settled. Because one of your posts says you Quit, they could be shits and print it and use that against you in collecting unemployment money.

quote: Joshua Waaland
Unfortunately, most theaters gave up caring about good presentation long ago and your just another minimum wage person to them.

That's the truth about some companies out there. But there are many operators that do 110% on the job, but the companies keep this once profitable profession in the minimum wage area. Good luck in the future, but watch what words you use on the net.

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-27-2008, 03:30 PM:

Thank you everyone for your support. I think it is a sad statement as to the low regard real projectionists are held in by most companies that many people have a similar story, or at least understand my situation. I am probably among the least of projectionists on these forums in skill, which is why I was attracted to post here in the first place. Who wants an environment where they can't learn more about a trade they are passionate about?

Looking carefully over some of my posts, I believe I see what my old "superiors" are upset about, but I didn't post any criticism of the company on here that I hadn't expressed to them and been ignored, nor did I post the name of the company or the name of any individual. I also don't know why they would be upset over me venting to professional projectionists, none of whom would work for them at their wages. I still believe their response and actions towards me are the result of massive ego and an unwillingness to listen, especially to someone young such as myself.

Prior to this incident, I had mostly enjoyed working there due to the free reign given me by the theater manager. It was when I could not solve a problem on my own and tried to look higher for help, or when I was held back by a lack of necessary supplies, that I became frustrated and unhappy. A few weeks ago, that company took what I considered to be a very positive step forward in projection with the creation of a new position, but the implementation that I heard of it was much too little, too late. So, despite my difficulties with them, I really do hope, for the sake of my friends and family in the company's employ, that they can tone down the ego, get serious about projection, and have the kind of booth I was trying to create at my theater.

In any case, quitting was the only option acceptable to me, and I would rather quit and subsist off of my savings than be fired and have that held against me. I am glad to be able to leave on good terms with the theater manager, since he and I shared an interest in doing things the right way, and for the opportunities he gave me while I was there.

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-27-2008, 03:53 PM:

Projectionists were hated when they were union (or because they were union) and now that unions have pretty much been done away with, it still is not good enough! Projectionists must be called Usher-Bs or they will unionize (fantastic logic, there) and they must not get a decent wage and there must not be someone in the booth at all times. Of course there are always exceptions here and there... usually at the better run theaters.

Posted by Mike Blakesley (Member # 26) on 08-27-2008, 04:30 PM:

I'm just a naive small-town guy, but what possible harm could come to a company because their employee posts on Film-Tech? As long as company numbers and building plans aren't being posted (and even those aren't exactly huge secrets these days) what's the worry? It's not like everyone on the planet reads this site.

Seems to me they are worried about embarassment more than anything else, at the crappy way they treat their employees and/or equipment.

Posted by John Wilson (Member # 269) on 08-27-2008, 08:22 PM:

Bingo.

Posted by Allison Parsons (Member # 2728) on 08-27-2008, 08:47 PM:

Galen,

Was this the only theatre you've ever worked at?

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-27-2008, 09:59 PM:

Allison, yes this was my first real job, in fact. I got a job on the floor during my last semester in high school and worked my way up to booth supervisor (a position not given to staffers at this theater) within less than a year. I'd previously had a number of under the table jobs and that sort of thing, and I had a couple other part time jobs I scheduled around work at the theater over the past year. Sometimes I would work at the theater 'til closing, sleep a couple of hours, and go work an 8 hour shift at the steel factory or for the contractor I worked, but I would always have plenty of energy when I got back to the theater that night to time a bunch of platter decks or build a few prints and break down a couple in between starts.

And, for what it's worth, this whole issue was apparently based on my last posting in this thread. To me, that is an utterly innocuous complaint about how badly Barco sucks, and how their 24 hour phone line is almost never answered. So, for those Goodrich'rs reading this up in Kentwood or Saginaw, I hope you realize how stupid you've been.

[ 08-27-2008, 11:34 PM: Message edited by: Adam Martin ]

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-27-2008, 10:14 PM:

I bet it was due to Mark G's response that they felt hurt and had to do something. They just need to know that Mark G is like that.

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-27-2008, 10:51 PM:

Joe, you are probably right. My feelings are easily hurt by a tech 2000 miles away. [Razz]

Also, why is my link messed up and why could I not format it so "this" didn't have a space in it. Ya'lls forum software is sort of weird. Wait Brad, I didn't mean it, please don't demote me!

Posted by Adam Martin (Member # 641) on 08-27-2008, 11:35 PM:

Your link has been repaired.

Posted by Chris Slycord (Member # 4239) on 08-28-2008, 12:37 AM:

quote: Galen Murphy-Fahlgren
And, for what it's worth, this whole issue was apparently based on my last posting in this thread. To me, that is an utterly innocuous complaint about how badly Barco sucks, and how their 24 hour phone line is almost never answered. So, for those Goodrich'rs reading this up in Kentwood or Saginaw, I hope you realize how stupid you've been.

I bet it's more related to the comment you made before that one where you were bad-mouthing corporate monetary and training decisions followed by your own insinuation that their decisions put your job in jeopardy or that you were considering quitting. They probably didn't want their "dirty laundry" put out for everyone to see (even if it really needed to happen).

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-28-2008, 10:40 AM:

Chris, I can sort of see that, but what I meant by saying that was that I found Barco's service unbelievably poor considering. I also expressed a very real concern over my job security as they went to a digital booth. I may have been quite to the point regarding the poor wisdom of having the two largest screens in the theater digital when there were long play obligations in effect for extremely terrible/poor performing movies, but that was a concern I tried to express to them and was, once again, brushed off. I meant that post as a criticism of Barco, though I suppose there were elements of displeasure towards some things the company was doing.

Either way, I feel the appropriate, professional thing to do would have been to talk to me. If they'd taken issue with one of my statements and been willing to discuss the issue, I probably would have edited it and curtailed future discussions of what they perceived to be sensitive issues. However, I was never told that there was a specific limitation on my ability to discuss my livelihood with like minded individuals, and was told after the fact that I was being demoted over it and my career there put to an abrupt halt. In fact, I would still be willing to discuss it with them, but restraint is now out of the question and I will not return to their employ.

Posted by Chris Slycord (Member # 4239) on 08-28-2008, 10:58 AM:

The concern of your's was brushed off because, most likely, the person you were talking to isn't the person who makes those kinds of decisions and is simply going with whatever was agreed upon in a contract by higher-ups.

And yes it'd be nice if they had said something to you beforehand, but I imagine from their perspective "being professional" doesn't involve airing the company's "dirty laundry."

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-28-2008, 12:12 PM:

Well, this is where it gets tricky. As far as I'm concerned, nothing I said was privileged or secret information. If they had outlined ground rules for what I can and cannot say, it would be a different thing. For that matter, how do they know I'm not discussing things in greater detail elsewhere, on my family's forum or any car forums off topic sections, etc.? Many people "shoot the shit" about their work lives, I happened to be discussing mine with people in the same profession.

Regardless, what's done is done. I bear ill will over the handling of the situation, and I'm sure they bear ill will that I'm on here bitching about it. I'm not happy with the timing, since I had to cancel a visit to my grandparents to look for work (and fix my crappy car, which is mostly my fault), but I have prospects with which I may be happier than I was working for Goodrich.

Posted by Rick Raskin (Member # 1561) on 08-28-2008, 01:01 PM:

With all due respect, I think you have learned a valuable lesson. "Don't bite the hand that feeds." Even though you may not have revealed any "trade secrets" in your posts, IMHO you came off as a somewhat of a complainer. A valuable thing I learned was not to go to the boss with complaints, but rather to offer solutions. Granted, the theatre business is not exactly a great career place, but the lessons learned should help you in the future. Good luck.

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 08-28-2008, 01:23 PM:

I appreciate your candor, Rick, and I agree that this is a big life lesson for me. If I come off as complaining a lot, I think that may have been a result of the nature of the problems I was having at work. I did not post of my successes, because I didn't need advice or help with them, obviously. Since my experience was and is limited, I can't give the kind of technical advice to others that many of the illustrious members here can. I hope to someday be as knowledgeable as many of the people on here, but for now, I have more problems that need solving than solutions for other people's problems. I'm not saying I haven't complained about things, because the record probably shows me complaining, but I think my time there was better characterized by long hours, hard work, and the occasional piece of good projection. I don't think I am blameless in this issue, but I think my service merited some consideration on their part, but the human element got lost when toes got stepped on. The fact is, on a personal level, I even liked some of the people responsible for my ouster fairly well.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 08-28-2008, 06:58 PM:

quote: Galen Murphy-Fahlgren
but I think my time there was better characterized by long hours, hard work, and the occasional piece of good projection. I don't think I am blameless in this issue, but I think my service merited some consideration on their part, but the human element got lost when toes got stepped on.

I think that the whole lot of us, me included, been here and done that many-a-times in this industry.

We, as inperfect humans, really do want that subjective "human" touch of being complimented for what we do, including the hard work and long hours that we put into whoever company we work for since we do feel that we deserve some sort of reward for such, yet, there is a huge "dark side" behind all of this that a lot of us (and it's taken me over 30yrs of my involvement in this industry to eventually realize this..) went through.

And that is: When a workforce is operated mainly on a teamwork operational level, any, some or one person who wants to cry out "I'm special and I did so much, please reward me for what I do", this will cause massive chaos and distruption in the harmony of the operation since the higher ups don't want anything to do with, or show favortism..or to put it bluntly: any location "operas", "dramas", or "soap operas". Sorry, when you work for any company that is teamwork based, you're just one of them that is filling a position that needs to be occupied with proper policies and procedures - nothing else.

There was a story in the industry a long time ago about Harry Cohn, Pres. of Columbia Pictures. One horrible person to even be around. Yet, as mean as he was by letting his employees know he was "the boss of the studio", he kept Columbia on the competitive road against the other studios.

One day, Harry accidently did something that one of his office people stepped in bailed him out of this one problem. Instead of saying "Thank You" to that individual, he told him that he'll have to let him go now for Harry didn't want to owe anybody anything..or you might say, show someone any favortism - just to keep the harmony flowing within the studio. For if Harry showed favortism to that one office individual, then Columbia Pictures would fall under total chaos since the example of leadership would have fallen due to one person.

A lot of people hated Cohn, yet they also fully respected him on what he was doing.

And it looks like that Goodrich was feeling the same way as did Harry Cohn.

Don't blame Goodrich for their decision - they have to keep their interests intact to keep moving forward.

If you went to a high-tech, computer industry manufacturing plant that makes computers, hardware, periphials and chips of all kinds, these operations are under the strict ISO-9001 ruling which follows this teamwork format to the absolute letter. Any sort of deviation that seems to come to surface, that problem is approached with one warning and a dismissal if nessary. Yes, they pay pretty good for starting out, but the tradeoff is that you are the team player that they want in their workforce..to where you're just a "robot" in the operation, yet with incentives to grown on.

If you get a chance to return to the theatre industry, please remember these ISO guidelines - basically, just get along with your workforce procedures and policies and be the best team player you can be in any position that you fill or seek out.

good luck-Monte

Posted by Louis Bornwasser (Member # 3063) on 08-28-2008, 09:01 PM:

Monte almost always has really good advice. Louis

Posted by Michael Gonzalez (Member # 593) on 08-28-2008, 09:40 PM:

quote: Monte L Fullmer
If you went to a high-tech, computer industry manufacturing plant that makes computers, hardware, periphials and chips of all kinds, these operations are under the strict ISO-9001 ruling which follows this teamwork format to the absolute letter. Any sort of deviation that seems to come to surface, that problem is approached with one warning and a dismissal if nessary.

Hey Monte, I am going to have to disagree with you somewhat. What you are saying is true if you are working on an assembly line but the workers who design and innovated those machines, didn't do so by following a strict ISO guideline. The theater industry is a "service" industry. And in order for us to do our jobs effectively and keep a very fickle public happy, we have to have the ability to be more dynamic than stringent.

I worked for this same company before and boy did I ever do battle with corporate on a regular basis (I would say almost legendary lol) and although I definitely didn't always go about it in the best way, I definately had the best interest of my theater and the public at heart. I know that it is a bit of a cliche but you do have to take it up as a learning experience. As I learned and matured, I found better ways to go about getting things done with corporate. One tip for your future endeavors, establishing a positive working relationship with both your District (or Area) manager as well as the tech assigned to your theater.

Galen, you sound like a decent person with a legimate passion for this industry. I sincerly hope that things will work out for you and I hope that you will keep us informed on how this situation works out. Good Luck.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 08-28-2008, 09:56 PM:

Yes, Michael - I do agree on what you mention above.

Interesting in this crazy industry that one seems to learn things from "the School of Hard Knocks" since there is no formal education or schooling pertaining to this part of the industry of cinema operations.

..a bumpy road to ride on at times ...

-Monte

Posted by Dennis Benjamin (Member # 1137) on 08-29-2008, 12:03 AM:

I want to chime in here. [Razz]

I believe there are quite a few companies that are now having thier managers/employees sign 'electronic communication' agreements nowadays. So, typically the rules change as far as posting in forums/blogs about the company you work for.

The golden rule in here would be 'Never Bite the Hand that Feeds'.

The only companies I have stated my opinions about are companies that I do not work for or used to work for.

I know that my company looks over my posts on here. I could really care less. Because at this point, I am not saying anything that would violate their policies. When I do that - I fully realize the consequences.

[Roll Eyes]

Posted by Mike Blakesley (Member # 26) on 08-29-2008, 12:12 AM:

quote: Dennis Benjamin
I know that my company looks over my posts on here. I could really care less.

I would like to get the job of "Guy who Looks at Internet Forum Writings by Employees." I wonder what that pays?

Posted by Allison Parsons (Member # 2728) on 08-29-2008, 12:27 AM:

Has anyone griped about an ex-employer on here, and that ex-employer has contacted you in disapproval of your comments?

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 08-29-2008, 12:27 AM:

I want to chime on this topic about posting comments of former employers, then I'll let the bear sleep:

First off, I'll leave Galen alone now being that he's left what is behind and now is moving forward on his search for success...and many "good lucks" to him from me - he's got the whole world ahead of him to go after.

On making comments about our former employers, for I've learned a hard lesson on this one.

Going along with "don't bite the hand that feeds you", just "don't burn your bridges behind you when you do leave and after you left." - and by doing so, just don't say anything on what happened in the past about that previous company, for it will come back and bite you where it hurts down the road.

...not a fun thing to experience. Yes Allison, my suggestion above was the results from what you asked.

-Monte

[ 08-29-2008, 03:54 AM: Message edited by: Monte L Fullmer ]

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-29-2008, 01:49 AM:

I don't like that Columbia Pictures story. That story teaches a lesson of "watch out for yourself and absolutely no one else", certainly not teamwork. The employee helping the boss when he/she could was teamwork. That Harry guy was an idiot to think that Columbia Pictures would go into absolute chaos if he didn't fire that employee or said "thank you". This story is so incredibly stupid that I must pretend that it doesn't exist.

Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 08-29-2008, 07:13 AM:

quote: Dennis Benjamin
I believe there are quite a few companies that are now having thier managers/employees sign 'electronic communication' agreements nowadays. So, typically the rules change as far as posting in forums/blogs about the company you work for.

I don't doubt that this is true, but one must ask why any company would care what its employees do in their free time, provided that confidential information (e.g. boxoffice reports, amount of cash on hand, business strategy, etc.) is not made public. Would any other low-wage industry (e.g. fast food or retail) have such restrictive policies?

If the employers are really worried that someone might, say, post that his theatre has rats under its concession stand, then they need to re-examine their priorities and do something about the actual problem rather than try to stop their employees from posting about it (not the latter would likely affect business, anyway).

My personal feeling is that all of the major exhibition companies pretty much suck and that it is the responsibility of local management to make the job enjoyable and fulfilling. Independents are all over the map, but there are some really great people (still!) in this industry and it has been my pleasure to work with and for some of them. This is a hobby for me and I see no reason to deal with people who can't make the job fun.

Posted by Dennis Benjamin (Member # 1137) on 08-29-2008, 12:02 PM:

quote: Allison Parsons
Has anyone griped about an ex-employer on here, and that ex-employer has contacted you in disapproval of your comments?

Why, yes, yes they have. A couple of times actually. Through ironic circumstances in my life, I cannot discuss this at the present time. But I will say that very important people have called me in the past to ask why I said things I have said on here - in regards to the company they work for. [Big Grin]

Posted by Mike Williams (Member # 1140) on 08-29-2008, 02:06 PM:

I have been reading this thread for the past couple of days and decided I HAD to comment.

No employer in any industry is perfect... and everybody has to make a choice whether they want to work for them or not.

Whether you are right or not, I do not think it is a good idea to criticize your current employer in a public forum. In my opinion, they have every right to end their relationship with an employee that chooses to do this.

I spent 10 years of my life in the theater industry. There are instances that I think my former employer could have done things differently while I worked for them... being out for 3 years, I still don't think I need to flame them in a forum or publicly criticize them. You have to ask one question: What would I gain by criticizing them? Are they going to send me free tickets or a bonus check for my (public) criticism? I think the only thing to gain is burned bridges.

It all comes down to your work ethic and maturity.

Move on. If you are compelled to criticize the company you work for in a public forum, it is time to look somewhere else for a job/career where you are more happy. Leave on good terms and move on.

Posted by Chris Hipp (Member # 1788) on 08-29-2008, 05:24 PM:

So you got fired from a minimum wage job with a sucky company....so what? If you are as devoted as you claim to be then why would you want to sink so much time and effort into a company that does not respect its employees? If you were getting paid better I would understand, but you can make more money mowing yards or delivering pizzas.

If you are worried about not being able to find another job, go to your library and check out a book called "48 Days to the work you love" by Dan Miller (I think). The author is kind of religious, so if you are great, if not just skim over those parts. It will give you a new perspective on jobs and careers. Take this situation as a gift. If you want to stay in projection, now you can find a better company with better pay, or you can move on to something with a future....digital is right around the corner you know.

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 08-29-2008, 06:01 PM:

Having managed a film/dcinema/simulator ride engineering dept of 30 people and directed many projects for many years, I can offer the following:

Never shit where you eat. That is... keep your gripes/dirty laundry about your company out of the public forums.

Don't burn your bridges behind you. Your public gripes about past employers make future employers wonder if you have an "attitude" and/or are a habitual complainer/troublemaker and thus a liability and are more trouble than you're worth.

Get with your company's program or move on.

If you don't understand when to keep your mouth shut, then you are not too bright. It's only common sense. If you don't get that, you are not worthy of being hired in ANY industry and should repeat 5th grade.

And, as a final word-of-wisdom: The better you are, and/or the higher your "rank" in ANY company, there are always those low-life under-talented people that are jealous and will look for ANY reason to take you down. Unfortunetly that's a fact of life.

BUTT, keep your values, your high standards, and above all...keep on "Truckin'" !

Posted by Bill Enos (Member # 440) on 08-30-2008, 10:41 PM:

Phil, that's the best advice so far. It takes some people most of a work career to discover those things and many never do and wonder why it's so difficult to hang onto or land a job.

Posted by Jim Bedford (Member # 4) on 08-31-2008, 07:00 PM:

Phil for President!

Posted by Bill Enos (Member # 440) on 08-31-2008, 07:08 PM:

Is he old enough? Anyway, a person with the wisdom indicated in Phil's post would be way to intelligent to want the job.

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 08-31-2008, 07:37 PM:

Well Jim, if I wanted to piss you off, I'd tell you I was a Republican. Ummm, I'm not. [Razz]

BUTT, to be honest, I'm an independent low-life! Ya know, just a gay ol' boy that votes for the "best" in my opinion regardless of their "religion". HA! [thumbsup]

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 08-31-2008, 08:38 PM:

I'm independent, too!!!! Most people hate me because I refuse to affiliate myself with either party. I think party affiliation would be rather embarrassing (for them AND me). [Razz]

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 09-02-2008, 09:05 PM:

I refuse to be associated with any club that would have me as a member!

Posted by Bill Phelps (Member # 4591) on 09-05-2008, 11:20 AM:

although it is sadd that you quit, did you consider what you were saying before you posted it?
you could have and should have called your Technician for advise before posting here, afterall that is his job. To assist Booth personel with any and all booth problems 24/7.

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 09-05-2008, 01:31 PM:

Bill, I am done posting in regards to this incident. I have spoken with Reed and Russ about it, and the issue is closed. I will thank you to leave it that way.

Posted by Scott McGuire (Member # 4508) on 09-07-2008, 12:43 AM:

must be bill is the tech or a higher up

Posted by Robert Minichino (Member # 3495) on 09-07-2008, 11:38 AM:

I'd guess higher-up based on the excellent grammar and spelling. [Wink]

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 09-11-2008, 11:24 AM:

My first shift at my new theater was last night. Assistant manager, so that's a step up. Plenty of work, lots to learn, and a fairly like minded GM, so I'm very happy with this new position.

I'm putting everything that happened at my old theater behind me. I have several friends there, and a lot of respect for a number of people. I've moved on, and possibly learned a thing or two, and that's all that's in my power. Case closed, as far as I'm concerned.

Posted by Jennifer Pan (Member # 2035) on 09-11-2008, 12:29 PM:

Congrats!

Posted by Joe Tommassello (Member # 4632) on 09-11-2008, 02:16 PM:

quote: Scott McGuire
must be bill is the tech or a higher up

quote: Robert Minichino
I'd guess higher-up based on the excellent grammar and spelling.

Yeah, that plus "he hasn't got shit all over him!"

Congratulations Galen.

Posted by John Wilson (Member # 269) on 09-11-2008, 04:42 PM:

quote:
I'd guess higher-up based on the excellent grammar and spelling. [Wink]

LOL!

quote:
although it is sadd that you quit...blah blah blah blah...

Imagine even bothering to register just to post shit like that.

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 09-11-2008, 05:24 PM:

quote: Galen Murphy-Fahlgren
Assistant manager, so that's a step up.

Funny... when I was an assistant manager, I thought being a projectionist was a fairly large step UP.

Posted by Phil Hill (Member # 371) on 09-12-2008, 12:02 AM:

Congrats Galen! I'm glad you found something you like.

Keep in mind the constructive advice others have posted...including me in my own "special" way. [uhoh]

You have learned one of life's valuable lessons. [beer]

Never mind the naysayers. Keep a professional demeanor and your passion for the biz. [thumbsup]

[ 09-12-2008, 02:01 AM: Message edited by: Phil Hill ]

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 09-12-2008, 12:23 AM:

quote: John Wilson
Imagine even bothering to register just to post shit like that.

Bill actually registered last year, FWIW. [Smile]

Posted by John Wilson (Member # 269) on 09-12-2008, 12:41 AM:

But it was and to this point indeed remains his only posting.

------------
Bill Phelps
Film Handler

Posts: 1
------------

My point is, that sort of thing would have been better served going directly to Galen's email or messaging him through here. Bill's name had not (as far as I recall) been brought up by Galen previously.

It just looked tacky and unnecessary.

Posted by Monte L Fullmer (Member # 2797) on 09-12-2008, 03:10 AM:

quote: Joe Redifer
I thought being a projectionist was a fairly large step UP

..and where I began as a projectionist and working as such, there were times that some mgmt personnel would curse our positions to where they would cause chaos and havoc to drive the lot of us down below their levels.

...and that turned into war at times....and to this day, there is still a touch of friction against my position, but at least they know that nothing can be about it.

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 09-12-2008, 11:06 AM:

Gotcha, John. [Wink]

Posted by Galen Murphy-Fahlgren (Member # 4535) on 09-16-2008, 03:01 PM:

quote: Joe Redifer
Funny... when I was an assistant manager, I thought being a projectionist was a fairly large step UP.

Yeah, but it is a manager run booth, and I retain pretty much all of my booth responsibilities from my old job as booth supervisor. I am not abandoning my passion for projection, just stepping up my game. Since there are so few people running booth, keeping on top of what is going on in booth is easy for the GM and myself. I think we have a pretty good working system that is only going to get better. The theater is in a state of change right now, and I'm very optimistic about what the end result will be. That said, I'm going to be roundly accused of being a kiss ass next time I work once my GM reads this, but that's the price I pay. [Razz]

Posted by Joe Redifer (Member # 3) on 09-16-2008, 03:52 PM:

If you enjoy all/most aspects of your job, then that is what counts. Personally I didn't enjoy dealing with customers, staff and inventory. When I had to do it, I did my best and did it right, but the booth was the thing that stood out as "fun". Years from now when you remember working in a movie theater, the booth will come to mind first... then zany employees and then zany customers. Counting cups and dropping $$$ into the safe will be dead last. ZZZzzzz. [Smile]

Posted by Scott Norwood (Member # 30) on 09-16-2008, 05:08 PM:

Are they paying you double to do two jobs at once?

Posted by Tim Reed (Member # 137) on 09-17-2008, 12:10 AM:

[rofl]