Changing Modeling Agencies

Changing Modeling AgenciesChanging Modeling AgenciesBreaking up is hard to do. Whether youve been with yourmodeling agency for 5 months or 5 years, its never easy to cut ties and explore other opportunities. But, there may come a time when you feel the need to move on. Whatever your reasons, switching agencies is a big deal and you need to make sure youre doing it for the right reasons, and that youre doing it in the right way. The Right Reasons to Switch Modeling Agencies Your agency is no longer excited about you. Has your agent dropped off the radargert? Have they stopped pushing your career? No longer booking you job after job? Sure, business might be slow, but your agency also might have stopped submitting you for jobs. If this is the case, its time for a serious chat with your agent to find out whats really going on.Your agency has the wrong clients for your look. If you have a high-fashion look but are signed to an agency that favors the commercial side of things, then you ll never get as many bookings as youd like. You no longer feel supported in your career goals. If your career plan doesnt match the plan your agency has set out for you, then neither of you is ever going to be happy. Before pulling the plug, though, make sure your goals are actually achievable (not every model is built to be a runway model, for example) and that your agency is actually aware of your plans.You dont get along with your agent. You and your agent dont need to be best friends, but you do need to have a professional relationship that is open, honest, and civilized. If you find yourself avoiding all communication with your agent because youre afraid and/or uncomfortable, it might be time to move on. They have a bad reputation. No model wants to be associated with an unprofessional organization thats known for losing models and clients.A better opportunity has come up. If another agency has better clients, better agents, better pay, and better terms, then signing with them might be just what your career needs. Just dont jump the gun and let your emotions lead the way, though. Before signing with any agency, no matter how great they seem, you still need to do your homework and research them thoroughly. The Wrong Reasons to Switch Modeling Agencies Youd rather be signed to a big-name agency...just because. Remember, bigger isnt always better. While being on the roster of an elite agency does come with a certain amount of prestige, it doesnt guarantee work. Youll be a small fish in a big modeling pond, and that means lots of competition and less personal attention. Not always the best environment for a blossoming modeling career. Consider sticking with your smaller agency, unless of course it actually makes sense for you to step up.Youre upset/unhappy but havent tried to fix the problem. Heres the thing Its perfectly fine to want to switch agencies, but you need to a) make sure your agency is aware of your concerns and b) try to solve the issues tog ether before leaving in a huff. The situation might be fixable with a little hard work and/or a change in direction. If its not, or if your agent is unresponsive to your needs, then at least you tried When You Are Ready to Make a Switch If youve communicated your concerns to your agent, tried your best to work it out, and are ready to sign with a new model agency, there are still a few things you need to think about before officially parting ways The legalities. Before you do anything, you need to read over your modeling contract. Many contracts require models to give at least 30 days notice (sometimes longer) in order to terminate the agreement, and some have loopholes that allow you to get out of it if the agency hasnt fulfilled specific duties (like booking you a certain amount of work, for example). If you leave before properly terminating your contract, you could face serious legal ramifications, including financial penalties. Sometimes the agency wont particularly care if youre leaving (dont take it personally) and wont bring up the contract at all. If this is the case, you should still get the agency or a lawyer to draft a termination agreement, just to cover your back. Get a Second Opinion.Whether its from an attorney or an experienced model agent getting a second opinion can be very helpful. Experienced agents at ModelScouts.comoften offer free guidance and advice if you are struggling with your decision.Dont burn bridges. The modeling industry may seem big, but in reality, it is incredibly small, and chances are youre going to run into your agent or associated professionals at some point in your career. So, its important that you leave your agency on the best terms possible. Break up with them in person if you can (Skype is a good backup plan), kindly explain your reasons, thank them for all theyve done, and wish them all the best. And, never ever badmouth them to other models, agents, or industry professionals. Theres a good chance your harsh words will get back to them, and that can greatly hurt your reputation as a professional model.