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7 Red Flags for Creatives: Don't Work With These People

Writer's picture: Caleb EllisCaleb Ellis

It’s a tough world for creative people. The wrong partnership can lead to financial losses, emotional stress, and wasted time—none of which you can afford when building a career. By recognizing these red flags, you can avoid getting stuck in situations that drain your energy and resources.





Think twice before working with someone who…


🚩 Pressures you to sign quickly without consulting a lawyer.


Be wary of anyone rushing you to sign on the dotted line without giving you time to review the agreement carefully. Contracts are legally binding, and taking the time to consult a lawyer can save you from unexpected and unfair terms later on. If they’re unwilling to let you seek advice, it’s a major red flag.


🚩 Refuses to negotiate (“take it or leave it”).


Collaboration should be a two-way street. When someone refuses to negotiate or dismisses your concerns, it shows they’re unwilling to value your input. This attitude can lead to an unbalanced relationship where your needs are ignored.


🚩 Insists on verbal terms (no written agreement).


Verbal agreements may seem convenient in the moment, but they leave you with little to no protection if things go wrong. A written contract clearly outlines responsibilities, expectations, and payment terms. Anyone who insists on keeping things verbal may be trying to avoid accountability.


🚩 Lacks a clear plan for your work or career.


Whether they’re a manager, agent, or collaborator, their role is to support and guide your creative journey. If they don’t have a vision, strategy, or specific goals for your work, it could mean they’re disorganized or unsure of how to help you succeed.


🚩 Gossips about other artists they’ve worked with.


If they’re quick to badmouth others, it’s only a matter of time before they do the same to you. Professionalism and respect are key in any creative partnership. Gossip not only shows a lack of integrity but also creates an atmosphere of distrust.


🚩 Is unresponsive and hard to reach.


A lack of communication can lead to missed opportunities, delayed projects, and unnecessary stress. If someone is consistently unresponsive or unreliable, it’s a sign that they may not prioritize your work or respect your time.


🚩 Has a history of disputes with other artists.


Everyone has disagreements from time to time, but a pattern of disputes or legal battles with other artists is a red flag. It could point to deeper issues like poor management, dishonesty, or bad faith dealings.


That said, red flags don’t always have to be dealbreakers. Sometimes they’re just indicators to pause, dig deeper, and evaluate the situation carefully. If you see one of these signs, don’t be afraid to ask questions, negotiate terms, or walk away if something doesn’t feel right. Your work, time, and mental well-being are worth protecting.


Tips for Protecting Yourself:


  • Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is.

  • Do your research: Look into the person’s background, past projects, and reputation.

  • Seek legal advice: A lawyer experienced in creative industries can help you understand agreements and spot hidden risks.

  • Get everything in writing: Whether it’s a contract or even a casual collaboration, having terms documented protects everyone involved.


Navigating creative industries can be challenging, but staying informed and cautious will empower you to make better decisions and build stronger partnerships.


*This is not legal advice. If you have legal questions about creative commerce, talk to a lawyer in your area.

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