HOW TO GET AN AGENT IN 5 STEPS: THEATRICAL AND COMMERCIAL REPRESENTATION

An agent’s job is to get acting work for you, most often by submitting you for auditions through casting breakdowns. They may also pitch you directly to casting directors or other professional contacts for roles they think are right for you. An agent also negotiates your rate and contracts, which can vary greatly depending on the part and how much experience you have as a working actor.

Talent agents allow them to make deals for you and negotiate contracts. . Though managers can secure auditions for you, their primary aim is to help personally guide and build your career. An agent’s fee is usually set at ten percent of your earnings, while a manager’s fee can vary (though it’s often a fifteen percent commission on whatever you earn).

Do I Need an Agent to Become an Actor?

At the beginning of your acting journey, you don’t need to worry about getting an agent so much as gaining experience to build your resumé. However, you’ll eventually want an agent to help you book auditions or find casting calls for professional work as you progress. If you live in a city where there’s a lot of work, such as London, Los Angeles or New York, an agent will help you cut through the competition. You can self-submit for auditions if you live in a smaller city with less acting work.

I signed with my current agent in 2018, after a couple of years of research on the specific market I was operating in, and, though there's no clear definition of what a good or bad agent is, I can only attest it's worth signing with someone who is truly selling you as the very best actor in your niche, and who is excited about every little win you have, and encouraging you on the way, especially in the beginning. On the other hand, signing with an agent you are not excited to work with from the start is like getting married with the thought of getting divorced. Nobody wants this. Also, remember that there's only so much an agent can do to submit and promote you while there is no real demand on the market for your niche or type, as unfair as this sounds. So don't get resentful when someone else whom the same agent represents has 7 auditions in a month that you only had one or none. Maybe there were 7 roles for a British young lady and none for an Eastern European male actor in his 50s, no need to stress about this, just do your best WHEN you are needed! This industry is not known exactly for its fairness :).

These are 5 steps needed to find the "perfect match" for YOU:

1. Prepare your materials: Obtain professional headshots, write an acting resume, and create a demo reel showcasing your best work. Having these materials ready demonstrates that you are serious about your craft.

2. Research talent agencies: Compile a list of agencies that represent actors with a similar background or type to you. Look at their client lists and specialties to find the right fit. Consider newer agencies as they may be more open to new talent and have more time to "sell" newcomers.

3. Submit your materials: Follow each agency's submission guidelines exactly. If you can, include a personalized cover letter, your headshot, resume, and demo reel. Reach out to agencies your actor friends are signed with as well.

4. Attend interviews and auditions: If an agent is interested, they will likely want to meet in person. Be prepared to do a cold read and ask questions about their agency. Treat this like an audition - you need to prove you are worth their time and effort.

5. Be patient and build a strong relationship: Once signed, respond promptly to your agent's calls and emails, keep them updated on your availability and goals, and trust them to do their job. Maintain open communication and be honest about the type of work you want. Remember it's a marathon, not a sprint! A big mistake newcomers make is to expect that things will change overnight after signing with their first agent. If you look at the background credits of any "successful" actor, you will notice it's a long time since they had to prove themselves in numerous auditions and small roles before being trustworthy enough to be offered their first "breakthrough " role.

The key is to do your research, prepare thoroughly, and find an agent whose clients and specialties align with your goals. The best way to get representation is through a referral from an actor they already represent or someone in the industry. Take as many classes and workshops and get into the community. Know your market and make sure they know you! Be present! With persistence and a strong work ethic, you can build a fruitful partnership with an agent who will help advance your acting career to the next level!

" Ideally you should begin with the month and market in which you are commited to starting a career in earnest. Leaving a market when you have just begun is the surest road to disaster. Once you are represented by an agent, be aware that you will need to be available for most of the next two years." ( Jane Drake Brody, The Actor's Business Plan)

All the best and I hope you find that special someone who believes in you as much as you do!!!

Much love,

Delia