Are talent agencies a scam if they ask for money to put you on their website?

[Briel]

A year ago, I took acting classes at John Casablancas Modeling and Career Center. On my final day; Graduation, one of the agencies that my school works with sent someone down, so that we could audition for them. After a couple of interviews, I was scheduled for a meeting with the agency director. I was accepted into the agency and handed a contract. What i would like to know is, why did the contract talk about paying $300 for advertisement on their website? The agency never said we had to or inforced that rule, but it was a suggestion because they also offered to just have my information in their system for when clients call and need people for a specific job. If you fit the requirements, they recommend you and you get booked that way instead. So, does them suggesting I pay to be advertised on the web make them a scam, or is that just how it's supposed to be?

[wildwood]

You'll need to make up your own mind if the money is worth having you recommended to clients, or just float on the books and hope one will spot you. The agencies charge a client so they will be making a living either way, you can't expect them to do it for free. Just make sure it is a reputable agency.

It's a bit like selling a house, if you are willing to pay for elaborate advertising your house is more likely to sell.

[boxtops]

Are you in the US Briel, since the agency fee is in dollars? This is a UK site, the legal side of things may be different here.

[HowardKennitby]

whatever you do I would advise not signing exclusive deals with any agency.

[Brinjal]

You have to be careful who you sign with. Some agencies barge to put you on their web site others don't.my daughter had work from one agency that didn't charge the one she had to pay she didn't get any work at all. Check out the agencies and references before making up your mind.