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Three Tips When Dealing with Talent Agents

Released on May 26, 2017

Performers use talent agents all the time in show business.  Having professional help navigating the business can open doors and lead to opportunities but sometimes newcomers get taken advantage of or sign up for services that don’t meet their expectations.

Talent agents typically make their money by charging the industry standard commission rate, which may be as high as 15 per cent, plus GST, on work they procure for you in the film and television industry.

There are many things to know, but here are three tips for choosing a talent agent:

1. Ask what services are offered and what the fees and commission rates are

Knowing the costs up front can help you decide whether the agency fits your budget or delivers the services you want.

2. Don’t be pressured or rushed

Pressure tactics like discounts, limited-time-only offers, and promises or guarantees of work are red flags.  If they rush you to sign a contract without enough time to think about the decision or before consulting a lawyer, that’s another red flag.

3. Ask about the cancellation terms in the contract

If you decide to cancel a contract, know what the terms are; for example, if there are any associated fees or claims on residual payments for past work.

Contact Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Association of Canadian, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) Saskatchewan

The BBB at sask.bbb.org helps people find and recommend businesses, brands, and charities they can trust. ACTRA is an organization that works on behalf of Canadian performers.  They have important information about the industry and may be able to give you more insight when choosing a talent agent.  For more information, contact www.actrasask.com.

Contact Consumer Protection Division

If consumers have concerns about talent agencies, they can find more information at http://fcaa.gov.sk.ca/talent2017 or call toll free at 1-877-880-5550 or by email at consumerprotection@gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Matthew Barton
Financial and Consurmer Affairs Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6067
Email: matthew.barton@gov.sk.ca

Michael Burns
ACTRA
Phone: 306-757-0885
Email: mburns@actra.ca

Karen Smith
Better Business Bureau
Regina 
Phone: 306-352-7601
Email: info@sask.bbb.org

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