Hey Everybody...
Just a question, and I need some feedback! I am very new to modeling, and I thought, on a whim, I would send an online application to this modeling/acting agency, known as Quickbook Agency Listings.(a worldwide Company) I read everything thoroughly before sending my pictures via email( I did have the option to snailmail them, just thought email would be the quickest way, since I'm a procrastinator!) A few days later, I received an email from the QuickBook Listings, saying that they have reviewed my application and they were putting me through to their second stage of approval where they take their four top agencies and let them review my photographs, if all four approve, then I would be accepted into their program.  They gave me statistical ratings, saying that 80% of the applicants never make it through the first stage of approval. Anyways, being me I was thrilled but I didn't get my hopes up. ( I mean it was my first-ever set of professional photographs that i sent!) They told me in the email that if I were accepted into their program that I would be sent confirmation via snailmail.
6 days after that I was sent a letter in the mail saying that all 4 agencies approved my photos, they think that I have what it takes to make it with the agencies they affiliate with. In the package I received they also noted that there was a fee that I needed to provide them with, of $33 per month for one year, or to pay their annual fee instead of monthly payments. THAT was what makes me skeptical..The purpose of this fee is so that they didn't put all their time and effort into a flake model who won't show up to meetings/interviews/shoots etc. By me putting my money into this every month it would make me more willing to show up b/c its out of my pocket, also it is put towards all my pictures being put into print. That would be the only thing I needed to pay for. Interviews/meetings etc would be covered by the QuickBook Listings... I guess what I am looking for is a bit of information from you guys so I know what I am getting into. If this is for real I don't want to miss my chance at something really promising...but on the other hand I don't want to be giving them money for something that isn't worthwhile... Has anybody heard of this company, if not, is this they way most places work? I couldn't find much when I searched them on the Better Business Bureau but I am thinking about calling tmm afternoon to look into it further. They aren't an actual agency, they have chosen model/actor portfolios available each day to thousands of agencies worldwide and they provide job opportunities for your area etc. I just need to know some feedback from the more experienced models/ and opinions! Thank you so much for your time everyone..I really appreciate it!

Do the mention who their "top" agencies were?  I dunno. I honestly know nothing about how things work, but somethings smells odd to me.  The experienced folks here can tell you better than I though.

They are mentioned on this site:
http://www.easybackgroundcheck.com/qbnw.html

It is said time and time again..REAL agencies dont charge a fee....these guys just sound like a really expensive MM

Miss Fish, meet Mr. Hook, Mr. Line and Mr. Sinker.

and how damn right I think you are!

Thanks alot for all your information guys...I just read information from that site, and I don't think I will be accepting their offer. Local agencies are more the way to go I guess! Thanks a bunch everyone!

Sounds to me like you would be better off just working with local people.

While you are at it, read this thread:  http://www.newmodels.com/infotrade/messages/1074.html

which is followed up by this one:  http://www.newmodels.com/infotrade/messages/1098.html

An educated model is a wise model who doesn't get "suckered".

This is from the BBB site:

http://www.bbb.org/alerts/article.asp?ID=477

Pay special attention to the sections with >>>>>

If you have a credit card or check book, then you are accepted! Run far, run fast!

PS: Avoid anything with "worldwide" in their title, all modeling is local.