Most creators sign brand deals without reading the contract properly. Sometimes because they're excited. Sometimes because the legalese is impenetrable. And sometimes because they've never been told what to look for. As a talent management agency, this is one of the most important things we do for our creators — contract review.
Red flag #1: Unlimited usage rights
Many brand contracts include a clause granting the brand "unlimited, perpetual, royalty-free" rights to use your content. This means they can run your face in ads for years without paying you again. Always negotiate a time limit (6–12 months is standard) and a fee for paid amplification.
Red flag #2: Vague exclusivity clauses
"Creator agrees not to work with competing brands for the duration of this agreement." Sounds reasonable until you realise the brand has defined "competing" so broadly it excludes half your category. Always insist on a specific list of excluded brands or a narrow category definition, and a time limit (30–90 days is typical).
Red flag #3: No payment terms
If a contract says "payment upon completion" without specifying a date, you could wait months. Always negotiate specific payment terms — 50% upfront, 50% upon delivery is standard for new brand relationships. Net-30 or Net-60 payment windows are acceptable for established brands.
Red flag #4: Unlimited revision requests
"Brand reserves the right to request revisions to content before approval." Without a cap, this can turn a one-day shoot into a month-long back-and-forth. Always cap revisions at 2 rounds, with additional rounds billable.
Red flag #5: Morality clauses that are too broad
Most morality clauses are legitimate — brands don't want to be associated with creators who behave badly. But some are written so broadly that a brand could terminate the deal based on any controversy, real or perceived. Check the language carefully and negotiate specific, objectively defined triggers.
What to do
If you're seeing these red flags in contracts you're being offered, don't sign until they're addressed. A professional talent manager will negotiate these terms on your behalf. At PromoBuzz, this is something we do for every creator we represent.
If you're a creator who wants professional representation and contract review, reach out to our talent team — we'd love to hear about your work.