HOW TO GET A TALENT AGENT- PART 2: SUBMITTING YOURSELF TO TALENT AGENTS!

Last week, I introduced you to Part 1 of my: HOW TO GET A TALENT AGENT series.  I hope I have not overwhelmed you yet!  Remember, patience, discipline and preparation are all keys to success in this endeavor.

I hope you were able to complete Part 1 of the plan I set out for you, because this week is all about PART 2:  SUBMITTING YOURSELF TO TALENT AGENTS!  How do you this?  I am so happy you asked.

4 THINGS TO DO WHEN SUBMITTING YOURSELF TO TALENT AGENTS: 

1. ORGANIZE A TALENT AGENT LIST:Last week, step 4 of PART 1 required you to extensively research talent agents and focus on the ones who would best suit where you are at now in your career.  Now it is time to solidify that search and compile a list of 15-20 agents that you are interested in representing you.  I suggest creating an excel sheet and listing their names, phone number, address, email, website and any other relevant information you want on hand.  

2.  ESTABLISH A RELATIONSHIP WITH DESIRED REPRESENTATION:  Now that you have your lists, begin introducing yourself to the talent agents.  Start with an initial email to capture their attention.  Follow them on Instagram and start commenting on their posts.  Let them see your name more than once.  If an agent has never heard of you, it is unlikely they will commit to representing you after simply one encounter.  Get your name on their minds.  To begin, I suggest contacting an agent via email and requesting an initial meeting.  In your email, be sure to attach your best headshot (1-2 pictures max), professional resume, show reel, and a captivating cover letter. Keep the email simple.  Less is more! Also, make sure you personalize it and address it to someone by their name.  If they are interested in what they see in your submission, they will set up the meeting.  Why?  Because you have become of interest to them and they want to know more.  If you don’t hear from any of your first choices after submitting yourself, try again to a second list of agents.  Send a different picture, edit your resume and cover letter, and see if that helps! Once a week has passed, make sure you follow up with each meeting.  Remember, this is a business and follow up is key!

3.  INVITE INDUSTRY TO WATCH YOU PERFORM:  If you had no luck after submitting yourself, do not give up!  Apply to theatre auditions and get cast in a play.  I cannot tell you how many actors I know signed up with an agent who came to see them perform.  Inviting industry members to see you in a production is a great way to land representation.  Trust me on this one.  When doing this, ask the producer if they offer industry comps.  If not, pay for 2 tickets and have them waiting at the box office with the agent’s name on it. Why two tickets?  It is etiquette to invite them with a guest.  Make sure you have put together an industry packet with headshots and resumes of cast members, show information, program, images of the production and any reviews received.  After the production, follow up by thanking them for attending.

4.  LOOK OUT FOR OPEN CASTING CALLS:  Sometimes talent agencies and managers will hold open casting calls for new talent.  Look out for them and do google searches on open casting calls in your area.  If you are interested in auditioning for them, prepare and show up!  This is a great way to get represented.  Make sure you take note of what they want you to bring and prepare.  Show up early!  And, be prepared to wait!

I hope this helps!  Stay Tuned next week for PART 3: How To Prepare for Meeting with Talent Agents!