Manager Bruce Smith on Getting 'Repped'

Knowing how to find the best manager for your career isn't easy, but Smith suggests starting by doing research on the Internet. "Go to IMDb.com and look up your peers who have careers that seem to be going well and see who they are managed by. Stick to pursuing managers who deal with actors on your career level," he says. "It may be flattering to be repped by a huge company, but you may find yourself fighting for much-needed attention. Make a short list of realistic prospects, and then see if you know anyone who can make an introduction on your behalf. Most managers will not ignore a referral from a client. When approaching a manager by email, always have all your materials in order. Be succinct in your submission letter, highlighting only the most important career details. When meeting managers, make sure you feel an easy connection. Ask questions. Learn whom you're getting into business with, and make sure you like what you're hearing."

Equally as important as knowing what manager would be a good fit is knowing what managers won't. "If you feel you are always calling at the wrong time and interrupting something much more important than you," that professional relationship probably isn't going to work out, he says. "On the flip side, be aware of managers who offer lots of personal time and seem to put friendship ahead of business. There needs to be a balance between the support you feel from a friend and the career growth you expect in a business relationship."

As for what you should expect from a manager? "At the very least, a manager should be a nuts-and-bolts person who can oversee the maintenance and improvement of headshots, résumés, bios, and reels," Smith says. "The manager should make sure that IMDb and Breakdown entries are up to date. He or she is also a coordinating hub for organizing and motivating the actor's various agents. But the manager should also see the big picture, helping the actor to highlight his special skills that separate him from the pack."