So you've been booked for an assignment through Talent Management. That's great! Attending an assignment or casting audition can be exciting, particularly if it's your first time.

However, it's very important to take care when you're travelling to meet a new contact or client. Please read these guidelines carefully. It only takes a few simple steps to make sure you're safe, secure and completely comfortable on the day.

Know the facts

• Make sure you know exactly where the assignment is taking place, and make full travel plans before you set off. Allow extra time in case you're delayed. There are often several people involved in an assignment; arriving late is very unprofessional and also reflects badly on Talent Management.
• Before a casting, make sure you know who or what you are auditioning for, and how many people will be there. Dress appropriately for the role you are trying to secure.
• Before a modelling assignment, make sure you know what type of modelling you will be doing.

Check them out

• Check out the company or contact online to make sure they are who they claim to be.
• Google the company or individual's name to find a website or contact details.
• If it's a company, search for their name at Companies House, the official register of companies in England and Wales. (However, note that companies sometimes trade under a different name from their official company name. Websites often state the official name.)

The right venue

• Only attend auditions at public places that are normally used for auditions such as theatres, drama schools and so on.
• Never agree to attend an audition at a private residence or a hotel.

Take a friend

• If you can, attend the assignment or casting in the company of another adult - a sensible friend or relation who will offer support and advice when you need it.
• Don't worry - the people managing the assignment or casting won't mind.

Let people know

• If you can't take a friend along, someone needs to know where you are.
• Before the day of the assignment or casting, make sure you tell a friend, relative or someone you live with where you're going, who you're meeting, and when you will be coming back.
• Tell them the exact address that you will be going to, not just the town or company name.
• Arrange to check in with your friend or relative at a certain time - for example, by sending them a text.

Just say no

• You don't have to do anything if you don't want to.
• No-one has the right to pressure you into inappropriate situations, poses, clothing or roles.
• If you feel uncomfortable, unsure or unsafe in any way, stop the assignment and leave.

Cash and contracts

• You should never be asked for payment at an assignment or casting. If you are, say no and tell us about it as soon as you can.
• Don't be pressured into signing a contract you're not sure about.
• If you can, ask to take the contract away with you and return it later. You can say that you need your agency or a lawyer to look at it for you.
• If you do sign a contract on the day, read it through very carefully, including all the small print, to make sure you understand it all and that it is a fair deal.
• If you have a sensible friend with you, ask them to check the contract too.

Get in touch

• If you're unsure about any aspect of your assignment, contact us here at Talent Management. We're always happy to do whatever we can to ensure the safety of our talent.