Dear Fairy Model Mother: I'm Not Working

Hello lovelies. I know it's been a while, but Mama's here. With all the traveling and socializing these past few months, I've just been swamped. But enough of that. Let's get to it. I was inspired to write this after a few conversations this week with some fellow models. It seems like these disgruntled beauties have been dealing with agency drama. This leads us to today's question:

What should I do if my agent isn't getting me any work?

Just like businessmen and lawyers, models talk shop too. We see each other at photo shoots and we keep each other informed. "Who are you with? Do you like them?" That's usually how the conversation starts. From there we get down to the dirty-dirty. We begin to open up to each other about issues we're having with our agents. One thing that's been coming up lately is models not going out on castings and not booking any jobs. Oh my gracious, haven't I been there.

When you get signed with an agency, you think you're going to be working nonstop. You're a fresh face and your reps want to make sure they are pushing you as much as possible. For a year or so, you're shooting around the clock, then the work slows down. This could be for a number of reasons. It may be a slow season. Maybe your look isn't hot right now. Who knows. There's a possibility that you need to update your book to gain more lucrative clients. If so, your agent should be encouraging you to test. Whatever the case may be, it's important that you keep an open dialogue with your people. Pick his or her brain to see what's really going on.

And if after all this you still feel like you're still not being given the same opportunities as the other models with your agency, maybe you should move on. When your agents aren't making money for you and you're not making money for them, it's time for a divorce. Don't waste your years, because you're not getting any younger. Take a look at your contract and figure out your exit strategy. Make sure it's an amicable split. Remember, it's not personal. It's just business, and you've got to be in the business of you. But don't rush to conclusions prematurely. Weigh out all your options.

I hope this helps, darlings. We've all been in situations where we feel our talents aren't being appreciated like they should. That's why we have each other to for group therapy sessions. Sharing is caring. As always, if you have any questions your fairy model mother is here.