Suggestions For Starting A Modeling Agency Part 2

Last time I talked about my thoughts about starting a modeling agency. It was a topic that got me writing since

I've done my own independent research in the past on the subject because I dreamed that one day I would run my own modeling agency here in Sydney. So here are some more of my suggestions:

 

1. Find experience - either you have experience working in the industry as a model or in model management or you find people who have experience. Nothing beats hands on experience and knowledge of how the industry works. With experience comes connections and who you know, the relationships you have in the industry can help an agency. You know where to find models and you know where to find clients.
   
2. 
   
   Decide on the type of modeling agency you want to represent. This will help reinforce your company image, vision and direction. Some agencies represent young teenage girls exclusively, others focus on plus size models or models 40 and older. Your focus should be based on what the paying clients are after. Find out what they want rather than telling them what they want. Work this out for your company and then start making contacts in your area that target these types of models.
3. Identify you market particularly around your region. Your business is as big as your network. Is your network based locally, interstate or international?
   
4. Establish the model base once you work out your direction. Make sure you have enough models to fill your books that suit your criteria. Do you have enough supply to meet the demands of the clients.
   
5. Choose a location that you are able to receive adequate exposure. You want to be able to be found by clients, models, customers and advertisers. I've heard of agencies being operated from people's homes so it is achievable. Being able to be found means also being visible online. Do you have your own website, for branding and marketing purposes?
6. Do your research in regards to the local regulations for starting a modeling agency. Do you need to apply for a license or permit, or is it just simply a registration of business?
   
7. When interacting with different parties best to employ an attorney to handle all the legal matters,
8. And when your business becomes more busy then you should consider employing a bookkeeper as well.
9. Scout for talent by hosting open call days and invite the public, or find your talent via a talent scout.
10. 
    Arrange shoots with a photographer for your models to supply your models with portfolios and your agency with comp cards that can be used to promote to potential clients.
    
11. Find clients, particularly larger companies that require models for their advertising campaigns in print and television. Department stores require models for fashion shows, other companies hire models for trade shows and promotional work.
12. Above all else, is to operate your business ethically, with your models, business partners and clients, you business is only as good as the foundations you built them on. It is in your interest to operate your company morally and maintain a good reputation in the industry.

I'd like to wish the reader all the best in setting up his model management company and I hope that you find my thoughts useful. They are just opinions so do feel free to comment or correct what I said. I, myself, am currently not agency represented and if anyone one would like to represent me I'd like to hear it :).