As we approach the mid-episodic season, television shows are rapidly being cast, episodes are airing, and before you know it we’ll be back in pilot season again.
For actors who are represented, you’re in good shape: You have people fighting every day to get you the best auditions possible. But for those of you without an agent or manager, it can be tough. You’re catching your own food and often go hungry.
But that struggle ends today. Here are four tips for getting network credits without representation this year.
1. Start building your industry connections.
Hollywood is a small community. Once you’re in, you’ll start seeing the same faces over and over again. And one of those faces needs to be yours. Attend every industry event possible: free SAG Foundation events, charity gatherings, your annoying actor friend’s short film premiere.
Don’t just go and sit in the back; introduce yourself to every industry professional in the room and use call to action statements like, “I look forward to working with you.” If they invite you to follow up at a later date or reach out, do it. Carve your existence into their minds.
2. Engage with professionals on social media.
Social media has definitely increased accessibility between actors and industry professionals. Yet it’s commonly overlooked despite being free and, quite frankly, where I find most of my new talent.
So take time to research and create a targeted list of industry professionals you’re looking to work with. Ask yourself questions like: Is he more active on Instagram or Twitter? What shows is she working on? Do his projects align with my vision as an actor? Most importantly: What do I share with this person that I can use as an icebreaker? Industry relationships are organically built off of a genuine connection.
3. Think like an agent.
Agents are busy making sure their clients are prepared and ready for submissions, and you should be doing the same for yourself. Make sure your casting materials are up to par with industry standards; a successful actor has vibrant headshots, cutting-edge clips, and a solid résumé to show you’ve worked in this town. Is your union status current? Define who you are and why you’re the best for the role in the submission notes.
4. Know what’s being developed.
In order to know which casting directors and producers to target, you need to be on top of what’s happening in Hollywood. With the inception of new media distribution, pilots are being released all year so it’s crucial that you follow development news so you know when something is in the works and casting. If someone you have a connection with is attached to a project, reach out.
How Backstage Can Help You Land an Agent
Warning: The following bonus tip requires flawless execution after a few network credits. Please be cautious and selective as to who you do this with. Seek recommendations from industry professionals.
When an actor is ready to be booked by production, their representation receives a deal memo, a summary of what the actor is to be paid, billed as, etc. If the actor doesn’t have representation, the deal or contract is sent to them directly but getting professional assistance from an agent is incredibly important here, so work on building a personal relationship with a great agent in addition to those producers, casting directors, and writers you’ve been rubbing elbows with.
When you get the deal or contract, reach out to the agent you’ve been building trust with and ask for their help in closing the deal. This should be a targeted talent agent on your list, someone you really want to work with. This next step is where you become the agent. It’s time to go in for the pitch:
“Hello, My name is (X), I’m an actor in Los Angeles. We’ve met/communicated a few times over the years and I’ve always respected your work/clients and been eager to work with you myself. Currently, I have an offer for a (insert co/guest/etc.) role and need assistance in negotiating my deal. I would be honored if you would look at my résumé and see if joining my team would be beneficial to you and your firm. I look forward to working with you.”
As a talent manager, I’ve used this method multiple times to get my clients signed by agents. It works and provides an incentive for the agent to believe and work hard for the client from the beginning. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to offer yourself to an agent when you have an offer and they’ll make some money from the start by being part of your team.
Best of luck!
Ready for TV? Check out Backstage’s ABC casting calls!
The views expressed in this article are solely that of the individual(s) providing them,
and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Backstage or its staff.
