Talent management is critical in creative industries. A good manager may help you find opportunities, negotiate deals, and grow your career. However, it is important to keep in mind that a manager is not a lawyer. While managers can set up contracts and open doors, they do not represent you in the same way a lawyer does. In this blog, we will break down the role of a manager, how they differ from legal representation, and expose common manager misconceptions.

Misconception # 1: You do not need both a manager and a lawyer

Creative talent often assumes that small deals or gigs don’t require a lawyer’s input and that a manager can handle everything for lower-stakes opportunities.

In reality, even small deals can have long-term implications, particularly when it comes to things like intellectual property, exclusivity, or future earnings. A manager might think short-term and focus on getting the deal done, but legal counsel is crucial for ensuring that even minor agreements do not have unfavorable clauses that could affect your career down the road. Whether it’s a major contract or a small one-off gig, having a lawyer review the details is a best practice.

Misconception # 2: Managers represent you

Often time talent believes that their manager represents them and works exclusively in their best interests.

Talent managers can be invaluable for building connections, finding opportunities, and keeping your career on track. They can help you land contracts with brands, teams, or studios and ensure you get paid what you are worth. But while they act as intermediaries, they don’t represent you in a legal sense.

While managers are incentivized to help their clients succeed, they do not have a fiduciary duty like a lawyer does. This means that managers are not legally required to act in your best interests at all times. Their goals may align with yours most of the time, but there could be instances where their financial incentives or relationships with other parties may create a conflict of interest. This is why having both a manager and an attorney on your team is pivotal for long-term success. A manager helps you get the deal, but a lawyer ensures it’s a deal worth having.

Misconception #3: Managers can “fix” contracts after the fact

Sometimes talent assumes that if they enter into a bad contract, their manager can negotiate their way out of it later or fix any issues that arise.

However, the reality is that once a contract is signed, it is legally binding, and managers generally do not have the power to “undo” bad terms. No matter how trusted or experienced your manager is, you are ultimately the one responsible for the deals you sign. As a result, you may end up being bound to unfavorable terms or hidden clauses.

While your manager might help arrange the contract terms, it is critical to have a lawyer review every contract before you sign. Lawyers are better equipped to negotiate terms that protect you before the deal is finalized. Relying solely on your manager for legal insight can lead to signing a bad deal, and unfortunately, you will be the one responsible for the fallout.

Misconception #4: Managers can handle everything

A common myth is that a manager is an all-in-one business solution for talent.

Managers may help connect you with opportunities, but other professionals are still necessary for adequate protection. For example, lawyers can provide strong negotiation skills, agents can be vital in finding jobs or booking gigs, and financial advisors are essential for managing income, investments, taxes, and other financial planning. At first thought, the idea of enlisting a team of professionals may seem like a lot, but cautious and preventative measures can actually save you time and money by avoiding potentially disastrous situations.

Managers play a vital role in helping creators and other talent build their careers, but it is crucial to understand the limits of their role. Remember, managers can set up deals, but they are not your legal representation. An easy way to ensure you are protected is to have a lawyer review contracts before you sign them. Ultimately, your career is your responsibility, and taking the right precautions will help you avoid bad deals, save you time and money, and set you up for long-term success.

Looking to ensure you are legally protected in your career? Contact Venustas Law to have your contracts reviewed by an attorney today.