 
This Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ) page will be updated
from time to time based upon questions from our
members and visitors. If your question is not answered
here, then please send
us an email, and we will respond as soon as
possible.
Q:
Can you assist me in negotiations?
While we are experienced corporate
negotiators, we do not represent individuals nor are
we lawyers or agents.
If you need someone to review a
contract or offer letter, and have no one else to turn
to or simply need a second opinion, we can assist and
give you our opinion for a low fee.
By so doing, we
assume no legal responsibility for your negotiations
or collection of fees. We merely offer an opinion and
recommendations for changes in terms.
Contact us at help@forfaces.com
for more information.
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Q:
How much should I charge for my services?
Fees should be based on the
requirements of the job offer. For instance, models
may charge a flat rate by the photo shoot while others
may have an hourly rate. Obviously, the more in demand
and popular you are, the more you are in control of
setting the rate for the job.
Performers may need to be more
flexible in their rates until they become more well
known and valued. Specialty acts can frequently demand
more if their act is unique. Comedians and magicians
may charge by the hour, by the day, week or month. It
frequently depends upon the length of the job and any
additional requirements.
Corporate performers for trade shows
and social events usually charge by the appearance or
by the day -- frequently with meals and accommodations
included.
The more demanding the work and the
larger the audience, the
higher you should charge.
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Q:
Should I ask for a contract?
Yes, always ask for a written
contract, and review it carefully with someone you
trust. As you develop familiarity with contracts, you
will learn they usually look alike and contain a great
deal of boiler plated text. Most of this is legalese
to protect the agent or employer.
Any person who offers you a job
without a written offer letter or contract is most
likely not someone you would want to do business with,
and we would suggest declining the offer, no matter
how much you want the job.
Verbal contracts are very hard to
prove in a court of law. Insist on a written offer and
contract. It's the professional way to do business.
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Q:
Should the job include travel and accommodation fees?
If you will need to travel a great
distance and require accommodations during the job, it
is customary to request a per diem to cover your
travel and accommodations, either in part or in
full.
Add your projected expenses up for
the total time you will be away including travel,
accommodations and meals, and divide by the number of
days for the job. This will give you an estimated per
diem.
Some agents and employers will
arrange these things for you and charge them to their
corporate account. This is the preferred way of doing
business and prevents you from having to lay out a
great deal of cash out of your own pocket. Make sure
your expenses will not be deducted from your
paycheck at some later date.
Make sure to include this expense
reimbursement requirement in your offer letter or
written contract.
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Q:
Should I ask for a deposit?
If this job is for a new client or
new agent, then by all means ask for an up front
deposit to establish credit worthiness.
After the initial job is completed,
if the balance due is received in a timely fashion,
you may always choose to eliminate the deposit
requirement in the future.
Remember, though, that above and
beyond your talent, you are in the business of making
money. Unless your cash flow is excellent, insist on a
deposit towards the work being rendered. Anything up
to 50% is more than reasonable. In some cases where
scripting and rehearsals are required, you may ask for
1/3 up front, 1/3 at the midpoint of the project, and
the balance upon completion.
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Q:
Should I ever have to pay for a job?
No. Anyone who asks for a fee
upfront in order to help you to secure employment is
probably trying to take advantage of your situation.
Check your local Better Business Bureau to see if the
agent or employer is legitimate, and if they have any
complaints against them. Always ask for references and
check them out carefully. Know who you are doing
business with and you will not fall victim to scams.
It's a small world -- ask around. You'll be surprised
what you can find out.
The only time you should have to pay
someone to help you to secure work is if they are
acting in the capacity as your booking agent. Negotiate
percentages up front and get them in writing, but
never pay someone up front for a job. It's not the
professional way to conduct business.
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Q:
Do I need an agent?
That all depends upon the nature of
your work. If you are a model, actor or actress then
you may want to find an agent to assist you in your
search for work.
Theatrical performers such as
singers, dancers, comedians and magicians frequently
work through bookers who take a percentage of the job,
but many also manage themselves.
Good source of information about
how to make money in show business are available here:
www.millionairemagician.com
www.davedee.com
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