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 Tips to watch 4
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Tips on what to watch out for |
Tricks of the entertainment industry
There are definite warning signs, if you listen for them, you will save yourself money, time and aggravation. Remember, they are very tricky and can make you sound as if they will make you a million bucks. But there are no easy roads in this industry, as soon as you realize that you need to be grounded to make it in this industry, the less chances of you being tricked.
The Bait
These companies and individuals use real and life experince tactics like car salesmen to move your motions. The tricks usually involve an easy way to make it to the top for one small fee. When you are promosied that all of your dreams will come true including the party that is going to get you your part, something is not right beware and confirm the induvidauls, companies backaround, tell a friend where you are going to meet these poeople and tell them you are going to be calling them if there is any trouble.
The signs are very simple. If it sounds too good to be true, it is. There is no magic path to making it in the entertainment business You always want to use your common sense so you don't waste your time.
The tricks usually start with the internet ads and also local papers like Backstage West, the LA Times or any other publication. Sometimes they use the radio. Other times you are approached by a "talent scout". Usually they are looking for people with 'the right stuff' to make it big. The range of people they are looking for includes everybody.. The other way to scam you is to say you look just like the moive star so and so and you were recommended highly..
The Pitch
The famous pitch a casting call ask for some basic readings or just interview you and then tell you that "YOU have what it takes to make it in this town". Of course that's what we all want to hear, so it is easy to believe.
Then the discussion turns to they want to represent you, get you representation or the one everyone wants to hear is i will get you your SAG card, cast you in their 'major' feature film or in some way provide a service. They will talk about their success stories, drop famous names like they are best of friends and get you excited about how they will do all this great stuff for you. If you can't verify it, it's probably a lie. Anyone can say they got Brad Pitt his first major role. But the proof is in the confirmation.
Oh and watch out for the line where they say if you only had a little more trainning',the right headshots etc . Of course they will recommend all of this for you to spend your money!
The Hook And Fry
Once you are hooked they go in for the kill "money"
Prices will vary from a few hundred to tens of thousands. And they tell you that you must decide now or the offer won't be any good. There are hundreds of other actors who will jump at this offer so you better get moving. The hard sell goal is to get you off balance, keep you off balance and make the sale quickly.
How To Avoid Them
Never commit to anything on the spot!
Anything legitimate will be there after you have a chance to check it out and think about it. Use the many tools at hand like the Internet Movie Database (www.IMDB.com) to check credits or talk to other friends, but make certain to confirm any claims they are making. Don't get caught up in the heat of the moment.
Another rule is NEVER pay money to an agent or manager to represent you or to a company that they need you to business with. No legit agent will require you to pay another company for their services as a condition of representation. Their business is to represent people they believe in. If they want to charge you a monthly fee to 'offset their expenses' then they aren't good representation.
There are hundreds of scams waiting to take your money so open your eyes and be carefull, good luck!
To enter a scam to are blog click here.
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