A majority of producers and production companies use industry standards but, as in any business, there are some that employ unsavory practices. Stay safe with this red flag checklist:
Be suspicious. There are no guarantees or guaranteed jobs in the entertainment industry.
Listen to your instincts; they could save your life.
Know the talent agency laws in your area (city, county, state).
Use a licensed talent agency.
Stay away from talent agents who want up-front employment fees. (This is against the law in most states.)
Check everything out before you go to the interview.
Have at least two reputable consumer sources of information.
Do not assume want ads for actors or models are legitimate simply because they appear in a newspaper.
Beware of opportunities sounding too good to be true (once in a lifetime, no experience required). They usually are.
Never send or give money to anyone who promises membership in a performer’s union. Always check with the union first.
Never pay money in advance for postage, advertising, registration, categorization or filing fees (an illegal practice in some states).
If you are unfamiliar with the agent, producer, or photographer–do not go to the interview alone.
Do not interview in apartments or weekly rentals.
If you are uncomfortable with an interview FOR ANY REASON, leave! There will be other interviews, other jobs.
Read all releases and contracts carefully before signing them.
This information is a guideline only. Please do your homework. Ask questions and clearly understand what is expected of you. We are not in a position to endorse.