How do I get an agent?
Well first things first. You need the materials to show to an agent. You need a quality, color, 8x10 headshot, and a resume (cut and attached already to back of headshot). One of my biggest pet peeves working in casting was actors' resumes not cut to size and attached - I had way better things to do with my time than get papercuts doing someone else's job. More on headshots and resumes later.
Once you are all set with that, create a simple cover sheet. Catchiness is a lost cause for most agents (besides their assistants are usually the ones who go through them.) So keep it simple and short. Now its time to submit. Do your research. Find agencies that fit you...do they specialize in a dancing dept? Are children and adult divisions separate? Do they even represent your age group? If they have rosters online, check it out. IMDB those clients. If there are a few people that look like you, you may want to look elsewhere. Do they have separate union and non-union divisions? Make sure to submit to the right department and be sure your submission packet is clearly marked. And definitely be sure your contact info is there...from working in an agency, you'd be surprised how many great submissions had no way to contact the actor for a meeting!
Now blind submissions don't have a high ratio of an agent calling you in. It is best to join networking groups, or if you know a casting director well, ask them for a recommendation. If you are having real trouble, join an improv troupe or theater company. Agents often scout there. And you can always go the manager route to help you find an agent well suited for you.
Once an agent calls you in, be on time! Not too early, though never late. Do you homework. Do you know any of their clients? Make sure they are properly licensed and a member of the ATA or SAG franchised. SAG franchised agencies are a thing of the past, so don't worry if they are not. Be sure to ask the size of their roster and history of the company and agent. And ask them questions. Everyone loves to talk about themselves! This is a potential relationship so its ok to have a fun interview. It doesn't have to be all business. Agents are people too!
Hate to break it to you, but usually if they don't offer you representation on the spot...move on! "They are just not that into you." Sometimes they might give you advice or feedback but don't count on it. Don't ever call to follow up about an interview. If they do decide to rep you, be sure to follow instructions on how to set up your profiles and get what pictures they need, etc. Time is money, so be on top of it.
Happy Hunting!
0 comments:
Post a Comment