I’ve been fortunate to work with many agents over the years. During that time I’ve always made a point to ask what they are looking for when an actor comes in to interview with them. I believe following these actor agent search tips can make a difference between landing an agent, or not.
1) The first and most important-Be prepared. Never just go into an agent’s office without a plan. It’s a mistake to believe the agent will be driving the meeting. In many cases, they will be waiting to see what you bring into the room. Do research on the agency and know the names of the department heads. Do they represent any big celebrities? What is their unique focus in terms of the type of talent they represent? What about the agent you are meeting with? You may not come across as being serious if you are not prepared – a big negative for most agents.
2) Try to make THEM comfortable. This is a point that many actors miss because they feel it is the agent that will do the talking. A great career is grounded in relationship, and as you find connection, the more comfortable both of you will become (This holds true if there are more agents at the meeting.)
3) Remember its entertainment. Be excited about who you are and what you have to offer. Have a five year plan where you see your career going. Be specific about the types of shows you see yourself on. Think of the roles and types of casting. This shows you’re serious and helps the agent see creative possibilities. The more you can paint a picture of your career for them, the more they will buy into your value and talent.
4) Never be Late for a meeting. Right away that sets a wrong tone in their mind about your professionalism- not to mention that rushing takes away your sense of confidence from being calm and grounded. Its confidence that runs this business and the more you can create that through your demeanor, the greater chance of landing a great agent. Your energy is what you walk into the room with. This is what they intuitively feel even before you say your first word. Being on time helps keep you in that confident space.
5) Always be friendly to the assistants and receptionists. Your very first impression comes across when you walk into that waiting room. How you carry yourself sets the tone on how well you will be liked by all the staff. Remember, the receptionist sitting at the front desk today can be an agent tomorrow. As mentioned earlier, it’s all about relationship. From agents, to directors, and casting directors, everybody is looking for a team of people that they like and can trust.
These are but a few actor agent search tips that you can use when meeting with an agent. We need to be reminded of them because what’s brought into our awareness has a greater chance of being utilized, with good results to follow.
