Has The Promotional Modeling Industry Died?

I have worked in this industry since I was 18 and my how has it changed. I remember when I first started working events all of the other promotional models I worked with were gorgeous, smart, reliable, responsible, outgoing and professional. They were friendly and we were part of a small circle and so lucky to work in this industry. We helped each other out and recommended other staffing agencies and promotions to each other because we trusted each other and cared. I don't see this in the industry anymore. The NRA is a trade show that comes to Chicago and is one of my favorites. I think it is the best convention to work, the consumers are relaxed, there is music, food and drinks and close to 70,000 people. All I noticed this year was girls that looked like they rolled out of bed, promotional models coming late to their booths, constantly on their phones and just not thrilled to be there. There were so many last minute cancellations, promotional models not showing up or canceling half way through the event. If you cant have fun at the NRA you should not be working trade shows. I know we all need to work and love to make the money we do in this industry but seeing all of this makes me miss how things used to be. Models were excited to work and happy to work in this industry because it didn't feel like a job. It's heartbreaking to see an industry that I love so much not do well. Clients aren't paying as much, they are cutting hours yet demanding more than ever. I don't know if things will go back to the way they were. Is the promotional modeling world dying? Will this be a position that doesn't even exist in 5 - 10 years? Team Pink Avenue

Why Have Promotional Models Changed the Past 10 Years?

I started working in this industry when I turned 18. I started as a promotional model for Miller Lite and other liquor brands. From on premise samplings I headed into special events, trade shows, and other promotions. When I started I worked with smart girls, most had marketing backgrounds. They were pretty and always showed up with their hair and make up done. They were professional, educated on the brands, and very outgoing. This was 14 years ago and my have things changed. I'm still involved in the industry but in different ways. Promotional models are not the same as they were when I was working events. The staff doesn't care about the brands or the client/agency, they just care about the paycheck. Models are late and show up like they rolled out of bed. They are not as outgoing and most have bad attitudes. When did things change and why? Promotional modeling is supposed to be fun! Models get to work at some of the biggest events in the country and get paid for it. They get paid well to! When you are hired you are expected to show up on time, study up on the brand, be energetic and engaging, put effort into your appearance and respect the client, staffing agency and attendees. Lets work together and be better at this! Team Pink Avenue

Promotional Model Problems - Missing Payment

I'm not sure if every staffing agency pays attention to the casting pages on social media but the team at Pink Avenue Models does. I don't go out of my way everyday to spy on other agencies but I am aware of who is casting for what event. I also notice all of the complaints from promotional models, the biggest one is late payment or not being paid at all. I know we have mentioned this before but you have to be careful who you work for! I know that you probably see cool jobs or maybe you just need money and are so eager to work any event. There are so many companies out there right now. It seems like every ex promotional model is starting there own. As a business owner for over 7 years I can tell you that it is not easy running a staffing agency, the work never ends. As a former promotional model that has seen it all I always put our staff first. I worked for companies that didn't pay, companies that paid month and months later, and dealt with rude staffing teams. They didn't understand that I needed the money and that I earned it.We make sure that you guys are paid within 30 days because you deserve it. You worked for us, you have bills, and you should be paid in a timely manner. Personally I think that the agencies that pay 90+ days after an event are wrong. That is 3 months after you worked and unacceptable, they get paid every 2 weeks and you should get paid in a decent time frame. Some agencies do not pay at all and then avoid your calls and emails when you try to reach out. The sad thing is that these agencies are still in business. There is a long list of agencies that I don't want any of you to work for but I am not allowed to mention them. There are a couple of things that you can do to avoid payment issues. Work with companies that you trust and have experience with. If you are new to the industry ask other promotional models for recommendations. Don't leave the event without the clients contact information. If you are having issues with the agency get the client involved, that should get your problem solved. Read the social media forums, there are tons of complaints from models on there. Trust the people that are in the same industry as you! If you do have a bad experience please share it but also share your good experiences. If the booking agent is using a personal email address that is usually a red flag as well. All businesses should have a work email. Keep track of when you worked, who you worked for, and when payment is due according to your contract. Please just use common sense when booking work. Summer is right around the corner and it is going to be extremely busy, be careful where you spend your time. Lets have a great busy season! Team Pink Avenue