Expert: Kitty Kavey - 8/11/2003

Question
Hi,
i'd like to ask a question not about models but about people in the agencies i.e. agents. how are they usually trained? how about the agency executives? are they usually just business professionals or do they have other ties to the fashion industry?
i'm sorry this is so general, but i really appreciate your time.

thanks a lot!

Answer
A lot of the people in both the fashion agencies and big talent agencies start at the bottom by interning or literally working in the mailroom, and then work their way up, learning the varied aspects of the industry and the business as they go.  On the job training can be the best way to learn, as each agency is unique.  Of course, depending on the specific position, prior training or experience may be required.  If handling the numbers side of the business, such as an administrative assistant, there may be other skills required as well.  It is my understanding that having no connections to or knowledge of how the fashion modeling industry works would make one less likely to be considered for positions that become available.
~Kitty