Agents hate being the last to know. Our ability to function effectively is largely based on having current information right in front of us. Nothing is more upsetting than reading a script for a project that’s been secretly canceled or pitching a client for a role that’s already been cast.
In those cases, I can look past the frustration, because the events have occurred outside my sphere of influence. But what about the moments when I’m the last to know inside my own office? I’m talking about those lovely clients who don’t include me in major decisions. According to my doctor, they’re the main reason my blood pressure is higher than your stoner neighbor on April 20.
To be successful, agents and clients have to work as a team. Doesn’t that sound good? Isn’t that what you want? Well, in my experience, most actors tend to forget that concept once they get signed. The memory loss usually begins when the ink dries on our contract.
3 Rules for Effectively Communicating With Your Agent Just the other day, I received a call from an actor who’s been on my list for less than six months. He’s been getting out on a regular basis, and he’s come close on a couple of gigs, so I would say that the relationship is working out fine. Then the kid informs me he just signed with a manager.
To be clear, he has the right to do that. The issue is he didn’t include me in the process. This actor just called to say it was a done deal. Hell, I didn’t even know he was taking meetings, and that is unacceptable. You know why? It’s because I hate this manager. The guy is toxic. And now we’re stuck working together.
Never, ever add someone to the team without getting your rep’s opinion first. That’s not me being a control freak. It’s me looking out for you. I might have inside information you need to know. And there could be some history there that will screw up our relationship. In this case, I could’ve easily steered my client to a better manager who would actually bring something to the party.
READ: The Best Ways to Stay in Touch With
Your Agent or Manager
You should also check in if you’re thinking about pulling the trigger on making a change to your appearance. It could be something minor like a new hairstyle, or something major like a piercing or tattoo. Either way, let’s have a chat before you do it. I may have some insight on how the change will affect your casting prospects.
Here’s another biggie: Don’t make travel plans without talking to me first. Yes, you have the right to live your life, but I might be working on something that could end up conflicting with your out-of-town dates. If you at least give me a heads up, the two of us can figure out a game plan, and we can avoid any nasty surprises.
A successful agent-client relationship is all about communication and professional respect, but I’m not suggesting you have to do what I say. I’m just saying you should at least give me the opportunity to express my opinion. After all, we’re in business together. And who knows? Every now and then, if the stars line up correctly, I might actually share something that makes all the difference in your career.
This story originally appeared in the Feb. 18 issue of Backstage Magazine. Subscribe here.
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