Can developing your image really help launch your career?

You've been contacted by an agency claiming to be a talent promotions company and now you're wondering what exactly that means.  

Well, talent promotions companies can actually be very helpful in launching your child's career, but like many things in showbiz, it is important to know what your reasonable expectations should be before hiring such a company.   While talent promotions companies can help prepare your child for an entertainment career and connect you to industry professionals,  they are not talent agencies (remember agencies hold a license) or talent managers, so hiring such a company is never a guarantee of work.

One way to think of talent promotions is to think of your child as a brand.  A talent promotions company will help develop your child's image and give you an honest assessment as to where you and your child stand.  From there they can guide you to your next step.

Power Parent, Barbara Cameron, parent to former child stars, Kirk and Candace, works with Nicole Sutton at a talent promotional company called Image Development.  After working in the industry not only as a parent to two successful child actors, but also later as a talent agent, Barbara knows what it takes to break in to the industry and she uses this knowledge to help others.

"[We start by giving] an honest evaluation of your child and whether he or she is ready to pursue an agent or not.  As a mom who didn't know the first thing about getting my children into the business, having a friendship with someone who knew the ins and outs of the business was so helpful and reassuring.  Image Development is that kind of company." 

Talent promotions companies like Image Development have relationships with many agencies and often work with these agencies to secure interviews for their clients.  They are paid based on a flat rate.  Some promotions companies also offer classes.  They do not take a commission and will therefore never be considered your representation.  You should know and ask what you are signing up for before you begin their services.

Barbara recommends this type of assistance for parents and child actors who are new to the industry or to those actors who need some guidance in their careers.

"We are here to help, assist, promote and teach those interested in learning and getting involved in the entertainment industry."  It's like having a personal guide through the process of launching your career.