Comp Card

Term from Talent Agencies industry explained for recruiters

A Comp Card (also known as a Composite Card, Z-Card, or Zed Card) is like a business card for models and actors. It's a promotional tool that shows a collection of professional photos along with the talent's basic information such as height, measurements, and contact details. Think of it as a mini-portfolio that agencies and clients use to quickly assess if someone might be right for their project. These cards typically feature one main photo on the front and several smaller photos on the back showing different looks or styles the talent can achieve.

Examples in Resumes

Created and distributed updated Comp Card designs for agency's top 50 models

Managed photo selection and layout design for talent Comp Cards and Z Cards

Coordinated quarterly Composite Card updates for fashion division models

Typical job title: "Comp Card Designers"

Also try searching for:

Talent Coordinator Model Booker Agency Coordinator Print Production Coordinator Talent Manager Model Agent Casting Coordinator

Where to Find Comp Card Designers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage a large-scale comp card update for an entire agency roster?

Expected Answer: The answer should cover project management skills, including coordinating with photographers, designers, and printing services, while maintaining quality control and meeting deadlines for multiple talents' materials.

Q: What strategies do you use to ensure comp cards effectively represent diverse talent pools?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with different markets, understanding various client needs, and how to showcase diverse talent effectively through photo selection and layout choices.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements that make a successful comp card?

Expected Answer: Should mention professional photo quality, clear measurements and stats, variety of looks, appropriate layout design, and proper printing specifications.

Q: How do you handle rush comp card requests while maintaining quality?

Expected Answer: Should explain prioritization skills, relationship management with vendors, and quality control processes under tight deadlines.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What information should always be included on a comp card?

Expected Answer: Should list basic elements like contact information, physical stats, photo variety, and agency details.

Q: How do you organize and maintain comp card files for multiple talents?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic file organization systems, version control, and database management for talent materials.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic photo selection
  • Standard comp card layouts
  • File organization
  • Basic printing coordination

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced layout design
  • Vendor relationship management
  • Quality control processes
  • Project coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Full project management
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning
  • Budget management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of standard comp card dimensions and formats
  • Unfamiliarity with basic modeling industry terminology
  • Poor attention to detail in layout and design
  • Lack of experience with professional printing requirements