When it comes to finding a talent agent, actors are often at a loss for where to start and how to go through the process. Not only can it be difficult to find an agent who will do a good job, but there are also a lot of agents out there and the process for finding and securing one—especially one you work well with and who wants what’s best for you—can be confusing.
To help you with the search, here is a list of techniques you can use to help manage the stresses and anxieties of finding a talent agent.
1. Get the facts.
Before you start contacting potential agents, make sure you know what having an agent means. What does the process look like? What kind of agent should you be looking for? Do you need more than one? Can you afford an agent? What do you need to submit to an agent? The list goes on, but be sure you have all the important and necessary information to make the right decision when it comes to finding an agent.
2. Determine your goals.
Think about what you want and consider the possible outcomes. Each decision will lead to new opportunities. Consider the possible opportunities and go from there. Spend some time just thinking about what is it you want before selecting a talent agent. For example, if your dream is to be a stand-up comedian, you should know that before going after agents since focusing on agents who represent only film actors may be a waste of time.
READ: How to Make Your Submission to an Agent Stand Out From the Crowd
3. Ask your friends.
As an actor, you almost certainly have friends and a network of people in the industry, some of whom may already have representation. Ask them questions! Pick their brains for how they landed an agent, whether they like their agent/think it’s a good fit, what the process was like, etc. And don’t be afraid to inquire as to whether their agent/agency is taking submissions. A referral can’t hurt!
4. Take your time.
Don’t be in a hurry to select an and don’t feel like you need. Take a deep breath, relax, and remember that many successful, agented actors started their careers without representation.
5. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.
If you sign with a talent agent and, after some time, feel it was the wrong choice, learn from the mistake and move on. It’s not the end of the world! Just be sure you’ve really thought the decision through and follow the correct course of action when it comes to parting ways with your representation.
6. Follow your heart.
Listening and following your heart can sometimes be the difference between success and failure. After all, you are the one who will have to deal with the consequences of whatever agent-based decisions you make, so make the choice that will serve your best interests.
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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.
