CHOOSING AN AGENT: What’s the difference between a theatrical and a commercial agent?

Choosing an agent is a lot like choosing a hairstylist. Some stylists are really great at creative haircuts, while others might specialize in coloring - and some are great at both. As the client, you can decide to have more than one stylist, or pick one that can do it all.

It’s the same with choosing an agent. Did you know that many actors may have more than one agent? While some agencies are full service companies, representing a number of talents, many specialize in just one or a couple things.

The most common agents are theatrical and commercial. Theatrical agents specialize in booking their clients work on movies and television shows. Commercial agents specialize in booking their clients for commercials. If you research agents in your area, you will probably also find agents that specialize in voice-over, print, and dance.

When trying to find an agent it’s very important that you 1) determine your strengths as a performer and 2) know what the agents you’re submitting to specialize in. For example, if you’ve been told that you’d be really great in commercials, then you’ll want to invest your energy in finding a really great commercial agent.

Many aspiring actors mass mail their headshots and cover letters thinking that they’ll increase their chances of getting an agent if they send their packages to as many agents as possible. While that can be effective, it’s also very important that you make sure that the agents you’re submitting to can represent your strengths.

There are hundreds of agents in the Talent Resources section of our website. If you’re not sure what an agency specializes in you can look the up via the web or call their office and make an inquiry.

And don’t forget, if you’re looking for a referral, be sure post a message on our bulletin board. Another member may be able to offer direction when it comes to working with specific agencies.

If you’ve heard people talk about “pilot season” but you’re not really sure what the buzz is about, don’t miss tomorrows blog.

TURN YOUR NEW ROLE INTO REPRESENTATION

Guess what! I’ve got some really exciting news to report. We’ve done the math and you won’t believe how many members on our site have been contacted by casting directors and agents.

381,373 members were contacted in the last year
22,164 members were contacted in the last 30 days
7,074 members were contacted in the last 7 days

And our members shared some really great success stories. I just wanted to take a moment to congratulate everyone who got an audition or booked a job this past month! I’m really happy for you guys. Please keep sharing your success stories. They truly make my day!

Now on to today’s blog…

So you’ve been scouring the internet and industry publications for auditions and it’s finally paid off! Congratulations! But guess what? You’ve still got work to do. Your hard work has landed you a job, but now’s the time to leverage your new role and get representation.

Whether you’ll be featured in a live stage, television or film production, it’s important to get the word out to the people who can help you take your career to even greater heights. Now’s the time to let agents and managers know that you’re a bankable talent and you’re ready to take the industry by storm.

How do you do this? It’s actually quite easy. Most people send mass mailings to agents and managers when they are looking for representation. You can apply the same principle when you’ve landed a role. Sending a simple postcard to announce your new role to agents and managers can greatly improve your odds of getting representation, compared to simply sending a headshot and a cover letter that may or may not be opened or given substantial consideration.

The front of the postcard should be a full color headshot with your name and the role you’re appearing in. On the back, you can include more information about yourself and about your new role. Be sure the info is short and concise and that your photo is engaging. If it’s a live performance, invite the agent or manager to attend. If it’s a television or film role, invite them to tune in or check it out.

Be advised that the manager or agent will probably not come to your live performance. However, what’s most important is that they 1) See your face, and identify you as someone they may want to work with, 2) See that you’re able to book work, and that a relationship with you could be a profitable one and 3) Call you to schedule an appointment for you to come in and meet with them.

So what are you waiting for? Start sending out those postcards today! Not sure where to send your postcards? Visit our site today for a list of agents and managers in your area!

Remember to check back on Monday for information on how networking can help to boost your career. Have a great weekend!