Some of the most common questions I get from from aspiring actors with head shots hot off the press and eager to wow the world with their thespian skills are: How do I find a agent? Where do you go? Where do you start? What should you expect from your agent and what should s/he expect from you? Aside from what you think you know from that episode or two of "Entourage", finding and working with an agent is a process. Here's what you need to know:
What does an agent do for me?
Beginning the Search
Any agent you choose needs to be franchised and licensed. I wouldn't suggest initiating your search by looking online because there are a lot of frauds, leaving yourself open to scams. Keep in mind that agents that are licensed and regulated get 10% from your pay. They are not permitted to request any additional fees or commission. If you do decide to do a search online check SAG or AFTRA websites for lists of legit agents.
You can start your search by:
- Picking up "Call Sheet", formerly known as the Ross Report.This
book full of agents, casting directors, and producers can be found
online or at a drama bookshop and will run you $10. Start with
location, and look for agencies that rep your talent (theater,
comedy, commercial).
- Going to networking events
- Involve yourself in plays and films (indie/student).
- Take acting classes and attend workshops
- Bring it up to friends within the industry or in class's and ask for
suggestions.
- If you have a friend that's represented (with a good
reputation)see if they could bring you in.
With the information you gather, compile a list. Do some digging within your own network and find out who has worked with who and if they are familiar with any of the names or agencies. Take the time to research each agent.
Making Contact
Rather than mailing out head shots, hoping for a response (which will honestly be thrown away or overlooked), try attending a casting or agent workshop. A couple of the best known are "One on One" and "Actors Access" - you pay a fee to attend and audition for several agents at a time! How efficient is that?! While there be sure to network. The Big Meeting
The agent/client relationship shouldn't be a forced business relationship. You and your potential agent need to meet and see if this relationship could work because it's essential that you are able to work together. You may be asked to audition, so be prepared with a couple of monologues and examples of your work.
- Ask questions like " how many actors of my type do you
represent?" This is important because this means that they are
already established with your "type"and have the connections to
get you those sought after roles.
- Be humble, not cocky. No one wants to work with a diva. Your
reputation means everything and people talk. Don't make
demands right off the bat
- There may be some constructive criticism regarding your look,
head shots, etc. take the criticisms with tact and respect. It's no
secret that the business is heavily based on looks so you need to
have a thick skin.
If you just don't click, finish out the meeting, and thank them for
their time. You never know when you'll meet again.
Making the Final Decision
If you're in the early stages of your career, it may be best for you to choose a smaller agency.
Here's why: consider how many clients the agent has. How much time will they have to for you? Yes, a bigger agency does have bigger names, but larger agencies focus on the bigger names because that's where the revenue is. On the other end, smaller agencies provide the attention you need, but may lack the power. That's where your research comes in. What is the agents rep? How well known are they and how many contacts do they have? Who are their contacts? It is very important to have an agent with a good reputation and well connected - casting directors will be more willing to see you. The better known, more likely you are to be seen for an audition.
Starting out
Agent should know the types of roles your a good fit for. For the both of you to be on the same page, it would be wise to see where both of you see your career heading in the next 5-10 years. Hash out what you feel comfortable with and if you chose the right agent for you, you should also trust their judgement.
Once you sign with an agent, they may set up a meeting with various casting directors, producers, and executives to "introduce" you. The whole point of these meetings are to place you in the mind of these decision makers and influencers. You want them to remember you when they come across a role you could be perfect for.
Do's and Don'ts of the Agent/Client Relationship
- Although there's no need to submit head shots, DO still have
some on hand in case they are requested or in the event your
agent needs them.
- DO follow instructions! If you are asked for 3 pics, only send 3,
not 50. It can be very frustrating to open and load all those
attachments then do a side by side comparisons.
- DON'T call for the trivial stuff. Example of trivial - directions to
an audition (google is your friend). It takes time away from the
things you really need your agent to focus on like finding you
work ornegotiating a deal.
- DO always confirm your auditions right away. Some casting
directors give deadlines - you could be replaced.
- DO NOT show up to castings unannounced or with friends that
may be great for a particular audition. This is very
unprofessional and not only will the casting crew be annoyed
with you but may reach out to your agency regarding your
unprofessional behavior. This affects your agency's reputation,
as well as yours.
- DO call when you can't make an audition that's already been
confirmed.
- DO NOT bad mouth your agent to fellow actors within
workshops and classes. Word spreads like a virus - if it's not a
good fit, respectfully end the relationship rather than burning
bridges AND your reputation.
- DO be as proactive if not more than your agent! use IMDBPro,
CastingAbout.com, Breakdown Sources CD book, and Alex's
Info/Newsletter to find the names of projects and those who are
involved in the casting process to network and find out about
more roles.
- DO NOT ask to change the times of auditions. Auditions are
usually held within very specific time frames. It can be very
inconvenient on all ends to make accommodations. As an actor,
it is part of your job to have open availability... I know.. I know,
you have bills to pay, but it is a complicated dream to chase. Be
flexible and open.
- DO manage a schedule of your bookings
- DO NOT be one of those actors who says " I don't watch
television" C'mon... that is totally ridiculous! Watching tv is the
best FREE way to know what shows you may want to audition
for and watch the credits for the names of those involved in the
casting process.
While having an agent can be an important asset to your career. it is even more vital that you actively pursue the career you want. Ironically, you are more appealing as a client if they know you are just as invested (if not more), in looking for work for yourself.
INDUSTRY TRUTH: Your agent may very well be looking for work for you, but priority will always be with an established and steadily working actor.
Use an agent as a form of support for finding work, not the only way you get work. Be as proactive in your career and you may be just as successful without one. No one should be more invested in building your career than you!
Good luck!
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