Know What to Listen for At An Open Model Call
Unscrupulous model and talent scouts have their acts down pat. Listen carefully to read between their lines.
WHAT THEY SAY: "We're scouting for people with your 'look' to model and act."
WHAT THEY MEAN: I need to sign up as many people as possible. My commission depends on it.
WHAT THEY SAY: "Your deposit is totally refundable."
WHAT THEY MEAN: Your deposit is refundable only if you meet very strict refund conditions.
WHAT THEY SAY: “You must be specially selected for our program. Our talent experts will carefully evaluate your chances at success in the field and will only accept a few people into our program."
WHAT THEY MEAN: We take almost everyone.
WHAT THEY SAY: “There's a guaranteed refund if you're not accepted into the program."
WHAT THEY MEAN: Everyone's accepted into the program. Forget the refund.
WHAT THEY SAY: "You can't afford our fees? No problem. You can work them off with the high-paying jobs we'll get you."
WHAT THEY MEAN: We demand payment, whether or not you get work.
WHAT THEY SAY: "Commissions from our clients are our major source of income."
WHAT THEY MEAN: Our income comes from the fees we charge you.
For more information about modeling scams, visit ftc.gov. Trust your instincts and NEVER pay to join an agency!
