Answering a Reader Question #1,026


Anonymous Wrote:

Hi, should I let my agent know before accepting the job they didn't book for me , and can I find job alone even if I'm in an agency. For example, Some designer contacted me the other day and told me can I be on their runway, should I let my agency know

Hey, Anonymous!

How long have you been signed to your current agent? If you're fairly new and haven't been with them long, it's a good idea to err on the side of caution and let them know about the designer contacting you and what the details are of the modeling gig they want you for.

It's easy for people to contact models directly and if you're not experienced enough in those types of situations, not having the guidance of your agent could open you up to be taken advantage of in a variety of ways.

In nearly all modeling contracts, it states that you either cannot or should not engage on your own with booking work outside of what your agent submits you for. Do models always follow that? Definitely not. BUT when it comes to this, I would strongly suggest taking into consideration your level of professional modeling experience and how long you've been with your agency.

Newbies and those just getting familiar with the modeling industry are easy targets. Even if the designer who contacted you is legit and not trying to take advantage, there might be work conditions or arrangements they present you with that may not be in your best interest -- things an agency would recognize right away and be able to negotiate with the designer on. A legit agency is supposed to operate in your best interests and seek the opportunities that will bring you the best exposure and move your career forward.

Since I don't know any details about your specific relationship with your agent, I would suggest letting your agent know about the designer who reached out to you and see if they are familiar with who that person is and seeing what your agent's advice to you would be moving forward. Then go from there.

More experienced models often have no problem accepting work they find on their own or considering opportunities from people who reach out to them directly. But that's because they have the industry knowledge to do so without putting themselves in a potentially bad situation, as well as understanding how to avoid any conflicts of interest that could cause an issue with their agency.

For now, let your agent be that advocate for you and let them determine how you should move forward with the designer. 

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