Cellphone Etiquette
Nobody leaves home without one, so we thought we might highlight some cell phone etiquette for you to consider the next time you reach for your iPhone or Android during appointments and bookings.
WHEN IT'S OK TO USE YOUR PHONE:
WHILE ON A JOB - Limit cell phone use to lunch or coffee breaks, and switch your phone to silent mode for the duration of the booking. Although plugging yourself into your device is generally accepted during any downtime - which may be a lot, it is important to remain attentive to your surroundings and make conversation with your colleagues. This way, you will not come across as an introvert or disconnected, and you will also be aware of when the client needs you on set.
AT CASTINGS AND APPOINTMENTS - Phone calls should be made before and after castings, fittings, go-sees and other business related appointments, and silence all notifications and ringtones. If you are not distracted by your phone, you won't miss any important instructions or cues.
EXCEPTIONS:
SAFETY - If a serious issue arises during a modeling appointment or job, such as; you feel that you are in danger, or being exploited, call your agency immediately to notify your agent. You should also report any criminal incident to law enforcement.
WORK OR EMERGENCY RELATED CALLS - Although we suggest not using your phone during bookings and appointments, you may find yourself waiting for hours at a casting or on the sidelines of a photo shoot, in which case it is acceptable to make and receive business or personal emergency phone calls.
Cara Delevingne by Ellen von Unwerth for the Sunday Times Style Spring 2016 Cover
PHONE FAUX PAS:
SELFIES IN THE ARTIST'S CHAIR - Most stylists and artists don't mind the selfies or Snapchat filtered videos while you're sitting in the hair and makeup chair or trying on an outfit. Occasionally, they like to join in the fun and record their creative masterpieces. However, don't let it get in the way of what they are trying to do - their job. They too are hired by the client and on a strict schedule. Even scrolling through your phone can be just as frustrating for an artist, because they need you to follow their instructions while they apply makeup, style, and groom you. Resist the urge to bring out the camera phone until the artist says it's OK, and there's spare time to Snapchat away.
NOISY NOTIFICATIONS AND PHONE CALLS- Loud phone conversations and constant pinging of texts and messages are very off putting for everyone around you. Go to a discreet place to make your calls, when it's appropriate, and keep your phone on silent.
INDISCREET CHATTER - Be careful with your conversations. Avoid speaking negatively when you are around a client or their team, even when you think they are out of earshot. A casual phone conversation with a friend about an uncomfortable outfit or a long day could potentially offend the client. Additionally, profane or aggressive conversations are inappropriate in any professional environment.
The Importance Of Reading Your Business Emails
In today’s world, we communicate more via text and email than talk on the phone. It makes life easy, especially when receiving large amounts of information. We don’t need to write it all down, nor does it interrupt with whatever we are doing. However, many of us have a bad habit of scanning over our emails and texts, instead of actually reading them.
When it comes to business, or in any aspect of life, glancing over important emails can lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings. When your agent emails casting or booking details, they often include specific instructions. It takes time to put this information together and relay it to you. By reading the whole email and following directions, it will save a lot of stress and hassle for you, your agent, and the client.
To avoid any complications, awkward situations, or miscommunication; always read business-related emails very carefully. Also, try to get to them as soon as you can. If you feel that some of the information could be missing, like grooming prep, contact person, or brings, you will have time to check with your agent. Keep in mind that he or she may be having a super busy day, or waiting to hear from the client for further instructions.
