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Tips on Finding and Choosing an Acting Agent

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Want to break into acting but you have no idea how to contact agents? In a competitive industry, an actor without an agent is at a distinct disadvantage when it's time to find work. Here's some tips on finding agents and choosing the right one.

Get a List

First, research the market. Get a list of agent leads from the Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). This is the easiest way to find all the SAG-franchised agents — the people who know the industry best — in one place. You could also look in up-to-date directories such as Backstage's Call Sheet. It's advised to go with a franchised agent, especially if you're just starting out, as non-franchised agents aren't always legitimate. Without experience, you may not be able to tell the difference.

Ask for Recommendations

Networking is everything in the acting world, and it certainly doesn't hurt to seek out word-of-mouth recommendations. If you already know some industry professionals — even if they're just acting classmates or teachers — then by all means ask if they know good agents. Focus on the following three key questions: Who do you recommend, and who should be avoided? How do I get in touch? Do you know anyone who can refer me? Keep in mind, though, that just because an agent was a good fit for someone else doesn't necessarily mean he or she is a good fit for you. Once you have a shortlist of candidates, check them out online. Look for information about the agency and decide whether it's right for you.

Get in Touch

Once you have a few potential talent agents you'd like to work with, it's time to make contact. You don't need to tell them your life story. Keep it simple, but all agents expect three things: A headshot An acting resume A cover letter Your headshot should grab their attention, your resume should demonstrate your experience as a professional — or at least as an aspiring professional — and your cover letter should fill in the gaps. It's best to keep your cover letter to less than a page in length, but don't skimp on personality. This is your opportunity to introduce yourself and make a great first impression. Mail your resume package to all the agents on your list and wait 10 days before making a follow-up call for a meeting.

Meet in Person

Hopefully, your first choice agent will want to meet you. If not, don't be disheartened. As long as you get some interviews, you have a chance to get your foot in the door. Dress to impress, take a copy of your resume package and show up a little early — but not too early. Also take a monologue to read, but be prepared to read from a script you've never seen before.

Turning the Tables

The meeting isn't just an opportunity for the agent to interview you. You are also interviewing the agent. After all, your agent ultimately works for you. Be sure to ask five important questions: Who would be representing you personally? How many clients does the agency represent? What can the agency do for your career, and what have they done for actors similar to you? Where have their clients worked in the last six months? When and how do they like actors to contact them?

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