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What is an "agent"?

An agent is an actor's representative. Once an agent Represents you, you are his or her "client." They will submit you for roles and try to get you seen by casting directors. They will take 10% union - 20 % non-union and print work, of your gross pay once you book a job. They will negotiate your fees and your contracts, and are your greatest professional advocate.Agents represent lots and lots of wonderful actors. They're busy, and they may not even be looking for new clients. Getting any agent is hard enough, so how do you go about getting a great one?

There are three basic ways an actor gets an agent. They are:

1. The agent sees your work and calls you in for an interview.

2. You are recommended to the agent by a casting director, director, producer, acting teacher or fellow actor who is a client of that agent.

3. The agent calls you in for an interview because of your P/R (photo and resume), which he or she received in the mail.Getting an agent to see your work is the best way to get representation, because they really need to get to know your work before they can represent you to the best of their ability.

Even if you get an agent interested via another route, they'll probably want to see you have some training and/or experience before they'll represent you.

The most basic way to approach agents or managers in your entertainment career is of course the mailed-in submission, which consists of a cover letter, résumé, and headshot(s). You may also include a reel, if you have one. When it comes to assembling your packet, it's generally best to keep things simple. After all, agents and managers have seen every gimmick in the book - from food to party favors - and these gimmicks usually end up in the trash. But if you're in a play or showcase that spotlights your talent particularly well, invite reps to see you.

Acting in Columbus recommends you should only work with a "FRANCHISED" Talent Agent. What are SAG and AFTRA affiliated agents? Talent agents that are recognized by the acting unions because they follow the rules and regulations and code of conduct set forth by the acting guilds are called "franchised talent agents".

How important are franchised agents? Very! A talent agent can be an actor’s greatest ally, strongest supporter and best business partner. Franchised agents place the interests of their actor clients above their own. They do more than just seek out work opportunities for their clients. They also make sure actors are paid a decent wage, assist the actor negotiate and sign union contracts and help make the workplace a safe environment. Choosing a franchised talent agent is one of the most important choices a performer can ever make.

Acting in Columbus Newsletter | November 2010

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