Do you think your budding kid star has the charisma and talent to become a successful actor, model, or entertainer? There are many talented children with parents who support their media and entertainment aspirations. At The Next Steppes Kidz Consulting, we believe it’s very important to assist parents and managers with identifying valid and legitimate talent agents and opportunities versus malicious scammers who attempt to take your money.
Too often, parents, managers and young talents are victims of fraudulent agents that promise money, exposure, and fame. In this article, we’ll highlight common scams by scammers pretending to be talent agents.
- Asking for money in exchange for an audition
- A legitimate talent or casting agent will never ask for money in advance to give you an audition or to secure representation. Agents receive commission on the work you secure not on the auditions you book.
- They have a monthly fee
- The monthly fee needed for profiles on their agency site is a big red flag. It is not common practice to pay upfront fees or ask you to pay a photocopy or shipping fee.
- They require you to use their photographers and acting classes.
- Reputable agents will recommend headshot photographers or acting coaches, but they should never require you to use their services or preferred vendors as a condition to signing you.
- Online auditions
- Yes, we live in a virtual post-pandemic world and online video auditions are common. However, parents and managers should be careful because there are many 'scammers' and predators that pose to be talent agents. Be on guard during your kid's virtual auditions.
- The ‘You have to sign now!’ Speech
- If an 'agent' says their contract for representation must be signed within hours, days etc. then there is a major possibility that they’re illegitimate. One of the biggest scam signs is proximity! Agents should understand that you need time to think and do your due diligence. Contract decisions should never be rushed.
We can go on and on detailing the numerous scams that our team has come across within the media & entertainment over the years. Through our services, we ensure that parents and managers are well-educated and child models and actors are protected. We connect you with the talent agents that have your young star’s best interest in mind. Contact our team today to get started on the right path.