Brand Ambassador Tips and Tricks 3: Employment

​Welcome to the third blog post about #ThatBALife
If you haven’t read the other two posts, please visit
1) http://www.samanthagottlich.com/blog/batipsandtricks1
2) http://www.samanthagottlich.com/blog/batipsandtricks2
Before reading on to this post!
 
So you’re educated. You know the different types of BA jobs and what you might want to explore. You’re fueled up, fired up, and ready to roll. But how the HECK do you get employed? What is the process of employment? How do we make that sweet, sweet dough?

Where To Start To Get Hired?

​BA jobs are unlike any other job out there. Trust me. It’s a process. Paperwork wise, the first five or so jobs seemed so frustrating! All I wanted to do was sprint into action and become a great BA! But, I had to slow down and understand that this is a job unlike any other, so the paper process is very different.

​Applying for Jobs

​There are endless ways on how to get BA work.
 
A great resource would be Facebook groups for BA’s in your area. Join the groups, turn your notifications on, and see what fits you interests! Some posts will have you email a hiring manager or sign up on an agency’s portal.
 
Another way to get BA work is an agency’s portal. You can apply to be staffed by an agency and if they review your credentials and profile and accept you, you can select jobs to apply to.
 
In addition, Craigslist and Google as well as networking on other social media platforms can lead you to some great BA jobs. Friends and coworkers who work in BA can also recruit you for other jobs if you show you’ve got the drive and the positive attitude!

​Papers…Papers...Papers...

​When you work as a BA, you’re almost always an independent contractor or freelancer. That means, there’s going to be a decent amount of papers going back and forth. You’re remote, the agency/recruiter/employer for that specific event is most likely not in your time zone. That means you need to step up that responsibility and make sure everything is sent over.
 
Agencies usually request a filled out W-9 with a license, passport, SSC, or a mix. They usually want photographs or scanned images or PDFs. If the agency is paying via direct deposit, they may want a voided check and your bank routing number and account details. On the other hand, they may just want your address to send checks. It depends on the hiring manager, the agency, and the event.
 
You’re almost always NOT going to get taxes taken out. Sounds sweet, but you HAVE to be cautious. You don’t want the IRS knocking.

How I Keep Track 

I recommend keeping a spreadsheet of all the events you’ve worked organized by month. My spreadsheet includes agency hired, client worked for, hours, expenses, and if I was paid or not (as well as any bonuses given). This helps with tracking business expenses and if the agency has paid its BA’s yet. It can take time depending on the client. Time varies! ​

Being a BA: Is It Right For Me?

Most people wonder if being a BA is the right fit. It requires a lot of drive, consistency, job hunting, and effort. It's hard work and you have to keep on top of things to ensure you're booked and scheduled. The industry is unpredictable and nothing is certain. But, the jobs are exciting, you make people happy, you get to travel, and meet wonderful people!

​BA work isn't for anyone but it's worth the try!