Agents

The role of the agent is to find work for actors (like you). Legitimate and reputable agents will only get paid after an actor or model has been paid. The rate is usually about 10% - 20% of the actor’s salary, depending on the job, ie: print, commercials, TV, fit shows, or runway. NEVER pay an up front fee to join an agency! This is a huge warning sign. If they do charge you, find another one, there are plenty of other agencies out there that are right for you.

While it is not necessary to have an agent in order to get work, it’s beneficial to find an agent as soon as possible. Agents have industry contacts and professional resources, which will help get you into auditions and interviews that you otherwise may not ever hear about. Like I said before, this industry is like sales. So the more auditions you go on the more jobs you can book. Why not have an agent looking for work too?

There are a couple ways that I like to go about finding an agent. The first is to ask around. Talk to friends that are in the business or ask people on set or at auditions who they are represents them. Ask about their experiences with that agency. People are usually very friendly and like to help others so it never hurts to ask. They may even refer you to an agent which will help get you in the door. If you don’t ask you’ll never know.

Secondly, for those of you in LA go to Samuel French Bookstore and get the paperback book “The Agencies.” It lists all the agents in LA, with phone numbers, addresses, and also has a section of what some agencies are looking for right now. Look through the agent descriptions such as children, models, character actors, leading women, leading men, commercials, theatrical, print, etc. Find the agents who fit your type.

Now you need to submit your headshot and resume to the agent, with a brief cover letter introducing yourself, no more than a couple paragraphs. Agents receive hundreds of letters and don’t have time to read a long letter. Try to be different. I like to send my pictures in a white envelope instead of manila like most people. Also, you can buy clear envelopes online so the agent can see your pictures as soon as he/she gets them.

There are hundreds of agencies in the LA area. Don’t just send out two or three letters and be bummed you didn’t hear anything. About 1 in 5 actors or models in LA has representation. It’s important to mail out 25 – 50 headshots. Make sure you’re prepared when you come in to meet with them. Bring headshots, resumes, and ask them if you need to have anything else prepared such as a monologue. During these economic times it may be hard to spend money on all the stamps, envelopes, and printing costs. Visit the agencies web site and see if they take email submissions. This saves a lot of time and money.
Once you have an agent, don’t expect your agent to make it happen for you while you sit back and collect checks. Keep in touch with your agent and continue to develop your skills. Make sure to thank them for their hard work and continue to ask them how you can improve your chances of auditions and what you can do to help them.

Chris - www.cfab.tv