Being a model is a difficult career, but being a brand new model who is unknowledgeable about the modeling world is even more difficult. When you’re fresh and just starting out, you’ll likely be on the lookout for any potential modeling gigs so you can begin building your portfolio. The problem is that it’s extremely easy to fall for potential scams. Scammers are out there, constantly preying on fresh models who are desperate for work. You don’t want to get caught in one of these, and luckily there are a few things you can do to make sure you don’t. Here are a few tips on avoiding scams as a brand new model.
Be Weary of Contracts
If an agency is asking you to sign a contract or legal document, it’s important you’re weary of it and the way they present it to you. If it seems as if they’re rushing you to sign the contract, don’t agree to sign it. This can be a scammer’s way of tricking you into signing by providing a sense of urgency, and it’s important not to fall for it. If they won’t respect your time and decision-making process, they likely aren’t worth your time. It’s also important to ask someone you trust to review the contract with you to make sure everything makes sense and seems safe.
Research the Company
When a potential agency is interested in doing work with you, it’s important that you properly research the agency in order to determine if they’re legitimate and worth working with. While it can be tempting to immediately agree to a job when one is offered to you so early in your career, taking your time and making thought out decisions is the best way to approach any and every job you encounter.
Watch Out For Up Front Fees
A common tactic that scammers will use is to request that you pay them an upfront fee in order for them to represent you as your agent. Never agree to this, as it’s often a red flag that they’re trying to scam you. Legitimate agencies will never require you to pay a fee in order to work with them. When you get paid, the agency gets paid.