Need info on LIN policy

[Newzie52]

Straightforward question for those who have accurate info:

Is it true that LIN has a policy of no "no cut" or guarantee provisions in its contracts for on-air talent? Do they give that little leeway to GMs, or is this bull**** as I suspect?

I am interested in hearing from those familiar with LIN and its current policies. The answer to this question will play a role in responding to proposed terms in a contract.

Thanks in advance for all sincere responses.

[Kelvin Hemholtz]

It's not LIN - but I've never heard of a station giving up their rights to fire you.

They may pay you out if they fire you "without cause" - but they will ALWAYS find cause.

So if what you say about LIN is true, then it would not be surprising. Nor would you be the only person to be in a spot like that.

Just see if you can get them to set up exactly what CAUSE would be... and state how they remedy that... do they have to warn you in writing, etc.,

As for layoffs... that's another matter all together. I would say if a joint lays you off, they ought to let you out of a non-compete. I would find it surprising if they were to pay you out on a layoff - since money is the whole reason they'd be letting you go.

[Newzie52]

Thanks for the input. I'm inquiring about an apparent change in policy that has resulted in contracts that are radical departures from previous ones. I've been told by at least 2 longtime, highly successful on-air folks at different LIN stations (#1 in their markets) that they are being offered "longterm contracts" that include wording allowing termination "at any time" with a few months notice. These are people who have never had less than 2-3 years guaranteed upfront in their contracts before (termination "for cause" notwithstanding.) Not the smartest way to keep good people around.

Sounds to me as if LIN is getting its ducks in a row in case of a potential buyer when the market improves. "See, we don't have any longterm commitments!"