Acting Agent Overview: How to Get an Acting Agent

An acting agent, also known as a talent agent, is a person who finds jobs or “gigs” for actors and other entertainment professionals. A talent agent is the chief steward of a client’s career path, helping with career development, branding, public relations, and networking.

An agent’s job is to get acting work for you, most often by submitting you for auditions through casting breakdowns. They may also pitch you directly to casting directors or other professional contacts for roles they think are right for you. An agent also negotiates your rate and contracts, which can vary greatly depending on the part and how much experience you have as a working actor.

Talent agents are state-licensed, allowing them to make deals for you and negotiate contracts. Acting agents are different than talent managers, who are not licensed. Though managers can secure auditions for you, their primary aim is to help personally guide and build your career. An agent’s fee is usually set at ten percent of your earnings, while a manager’s fee can vary (though it’s often a fifteen percent commission on whatever you earn). Learn more about the role of an agent vs. manager.

At the beginning of your acting journey, you don’t need to worry about getting an agent so much as gaining experience to build your resumé. However, you’ll eventually want an agent to help you book auditions or find casting calls for professional work as you progress. If you live in a city where there’s a lot of work, such as Los Angeles or New York, an agent will help you cut through the competition. You can self-submit for auditions if you live in a smaller city with less acting work.

If you decide it’s time to find an agent, always choose someone reputable to avoid potential scams. SAG-AFTRA, the professional union for film and television actors, can provide you with a list of franchised talent agencies even if you’re not yet a union actor. Avoid any agency red flags, such as a non-franchised agent that requires payment upfront or one who wants more than the standard ten-percent commission. Also, be wary of agents who want you to sign a contract without letting you review it first, ones who advertise their services, or those who do double duty as acting teachers and agents.

You’ve taken acting classes and worked on some student short films, and now you’re ready to find an acting agent. Here are some potential next steps:

1. 1. Get headshots. A headshot is a professional photo of you, taken from the shoulders up. It’s a casting director’s first impression, and your “look” is the primary criteria they’ll use to choose you to audition for a role.
   
2. 2. Create an acting resume. An acting resumé lists your height, weight, hair color, eye color, union affiliation (whether you’re a member of SAG-AFTRA), acting credits, and experience.
3. 3. Consider making a demo reel. A demo reel or showreel is a one-to-two-minute video compilation of your best on-camera work. If you’re a new talent, consider doing some student films or hire a professional reel service to help you create your demo reel.
4. 4. Make a list of acting agencies. Contact SAG-AFTRA to get a list of union franchised agencies. There are also reputable non-union agencies, but take precautions to avoid scammers. Talk to actor friends, join acting groups on social media, or talk to fellow students from classes to get recommendations or referrals to the best agents. You may want to start with smaller boutique agencies to get a foothold in the industry.
5. 5. Start submitting your materials. Now that you have your materials and a list of potential agents, you can start contacting specific agents at each agency. At this point, the goal is to get a one-on-one interview to see if you’re a good fit for the agency. Submit a personalized cover letter, headshot, resumé, and your reel (if you have one). Follow the submission guidelines on the agency’s website. Learn how to write a cover letter.
6. 6. Interview and audition for prospective agents. If you hear back from an agent, they may want to meet you in person. During this meeting, you can ask questions, and the agent may want you to audition with either a cold reading or a self-tape audition. If you’re the type the agent is looking for, they’ll ask you to become a client and start helping you find acting jobs. Get Oscar winner Samuel L. Jackson’s top audition tips.
7. 7. Foster a good relationship. Always answer your agent’s phone calls and emails promptly, and let them know if you have a scheduling conflict for an audition. Open communication about your goals and mutual trust will lead to a successful relationship with your agent.

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