How to Start a Modeling Agency With No Experience

So, you want to start a modeling agency? Lacking the experience? Don't worry, it's not impossible. You'll have your work cut out for you, but really your success depends upon one thing – marketing. It's no secret that if you're already in the fashion world in some capacity, launching your own modeling agency will be easier. You'll already have the contacts. You'll already know the best places to headquarter your business. But when you're just starting out, you're essentially starting from scratch.

One of the first things you need to do as an emerging model agent is to acquire models. It should go without saying that the more models you have in your books, the better. That said, you have to be ready to market yourself as a modeling agency representing models. In addition, you'll have to choose a good location – ideally a geographic area with a large demographic of model types – for establishing your agency.

Once you add a few models to your roster you will need to decide what type of business you want to own. Fashion magazines and runways aren't the only places with a demand for models, even though they might be the most lucrative. Before you start your agency, assess the various types of modeling jobs that will align with your skill set and contacts. For example, a new modeling agency might have more luck with catalog modeling. Networking with local businesses as they prepare for seasonal catalogs can be one opportunity. You can also think about focusing on a particular niche such as an agency with plus-size models. Differentiating yourself from your competitors as early as possible will pay off in the long run as you build your agency.

While it's not the most expensive business venture because often you'll just need a computer and an internet connection to start a modeling agency, there will still be start-up costs. Though you may be able to work out of your home, anticipate what it will cost to contact companies, research possible job openings and support models as they market themselves.

When you bring a model onboard, don't ask them to pay you first. Your job is to find models work and prove your worth as an agency. If you have one model with whom you are working, make sure that model gets offered the best job possible. Build on small successes and make sure you are forming respectable business practices from the beginning. You can expect to earn a percentage from your models' earnings after the work is booked.

You'll need models. You'll need a place to work. And you need to work your contacts. Some of the world's most profitable and famous modeling agencies started on a shoestring budget. The key to a successful modeling agency is not necessarily money; it's having good contacts and knowing how to use those contacts to grow and expand.