The modelling industry is an exciting landscape for newcomers and for models who are already familiar with the ropes. But it can come with risks (as with most things in life) so knowing how to stay safe is really important. How? Models Direct will give you our top tips on how to stay safe when signing up with an agency:
Work with a reputable agency
If you choose to have a modelling agency, like Models Direct, represent you, you can check if they’re accredited and legitimate by researching them online. Check out points such as do they have a direct number? Do they have a social presence? Are they on Trustpilot and what is their rating? Look at their reviews.
It’s always a good idea to see what others who’ve worked with the agency have to say about them and their extended clients. Are they pleased with the service they’ve received? What are the good points they’ve mentioned and equally, what have the negative points been? If they haven’t been happy, has the agency offered a resolution? Check out our reviews here and on Trustpilot to see how we’ve dealt with low star ratings.
Are they social?
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Does the agency have an online presence? It’s important to consider following them if they do so that you can stay in the loop about what’s happening. Have a look at our socials here.
Protect your personal details
If you feel as though the agency isn’t credited and verifiable, don’t be quick to share your personal details. If your gut is telling you to be cautious, trust it and take it slowly instead of feeling the pressure to hand over your information.
Before signing any contracts, know your rights
You have a right to carefully read through your contract before signing it. If you’re unsure about anything, you can ask your agency or seek legal advice if needed. If you don’t want to go ahead with the assignment, you have a right to decline and not be penalised for it. You also have the right to express which type of work you’re happy to do and which ones you’d prefer not to. Remember to keep a copy of the contract for your own reference.
As for staying safe when you’ve been booked for an assignment, here are our top tips
Share your live location details
Whether you’re on iPhone or Android, you can share your GPS with family and friends easily. This will give you and them peace of mind whether you’re travelling solo or in a group. You can share your live location in popular apps such as WhatsApp and Telegram.
A personal favourite is the Life360 app where you can add members to your group and share real-time location detecting whether you’re walking or driving. It also sends alerts when you have arrived at places.
There are other physical smart safety devices which you can use such as Nimb (a panic button ring) or a personal alarm which you can pop into your pocket or in your bag.
Take someone with you
If you’re working by yourself, you should be able to bring someone with you. Agencies and clients shouldn’t discourage this and if they do, you have every right to question why and decline the job.
We hope that these tips help you keep safe when you’re out and about on modelling assignments. No two jobs are the same so every experience will differ and according to your assignment, you can utilise one or some of these tips. If you’d like further advice, please get in touch with our Models Direct team who will be happy to help.
