As an actor starting out, one of the most important things you’ll need to do is secure yourself a good agent. During your search, here are a few things that you should make a priority to think about.
1. Remember that your agent is working for you, not the other way around. It may be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you are working for your agent, especially when you are starting out. However, even in the beginning stages you’re still an important commodity to any agency that you sign with… they are potentially going to be making money from you! So, even though you are required to provide demos and/or audition to make it on the roster, you need to ensure you’re comfortable with that person and they are working for you.
2. Your agent should be communicating honestly and frequently with you. Communication is a 2 way street, so as you are naturally required to know what your agent expects of you to be successful, you also need to inform your agent what your expectations are.
3. Are you willing to do any type of work? You need to specify what your focus is. Going to endless auditions that don’t match your expectations is only going to negatively impact you and our agent and your reputation with casting directors.
4. What do you feel your strengths are? For example, if you’re a cracker-jack at improv but dramatic roles are a work in progress, that is something you need to let your agent know.
5. How is your confidence level in all situations? If you don’t feel secure or confident in certain situations, you need to communicate this.
6. What are you comfortable with in terms of content? Your agent should not dictate what you do… if you are in a situation where you don’t feel comfortable with the content, you simply won’t do well.
These are just a few things to think about – there are many more. Stay tuned for future updates!