How to Become a Screenplay Agent

In America, there are very few requirements that must be fulfilled in order to become an agent representing any kind of creative talent. Most screenplay agents do have a college degree, but the most important prerequisites to becoming a screenplay agent are prior experience in related work and a list of strong business contacts. Screenplay agents must have a good sense of how to negotiate a contract and promote the work of their clients.

Instructions

1. Earn a job working in an established screenplay agency or a publishing house that handles screenplays. Most entry-level positions at these employers are either internships or reception jobs, but either job gives a prospective agent the opportunities to read hundreds of screenplays. Some entry-level workers may be promoted to assistant agent positions within a year. Promotion from assistant to full-time agent can take anywhere from two to five years.

2. Develop a list of publishing and film industry contacts that you can contact with manuscripts or film ideas. This is essential for any screenplay agent who intends to work alone outside of an established agency. Maintain some regular contact with these individuals to ensure that they're aware of your business as an agent.

3. Choose the commission you will charge the screenwriters who you represent when their screenplay is optioned for a film. A typical commission rate for screenplay agents is 10 percent of a screenplay's sale. Newer agents who have not earned many script sales may decide to charge less in order to attract more clients.

4. Start building a list of screenplay writing clients whose work you can market to your film industry contacts. Advertise your services in industry publications, such as Writer's Market or trade magazines for screenwriters. You may be able to attract the attention of writers who you worked with previously at your other screenplay agency jobs.

5. Become a member of any professional organizations dedicated to screenwriting or literary agents. These include the Writers' Guild of America and the Association of Authors' Representatives. Display your membership credentials in your office to be seen by any prospective clients.

6. Maintain a list of publish screenwriters who you represented and helped to sell a screenplay. Many prospective clients will want to know who else you represent, and many reputable screenplay agents make this information available. Being open about the script writers who you've helped to become successful is a great way to attract other talented script writers.

Tips & Warnings

• There are no educational requirements necessary to become a screenplay agent, but a degree in either business or law may prove helpful.

• A majority of the openings at screenplay agencies exist in either Hollywood or New York City.

• Do not charge upfront fees for your clients or excessive commission rates. Upfront fees are an automatic red flag to screenwriters, as the most reputable agents don't charge any fees until the screenwriter makes money. Excessive commission rates may limit the number of film studios who will buy work from your writers.

References

• Scriptologist.com: An Interview With Literary Agent Caren Bohrman; Glenn Bossik; August 2005
• Nathan Bransford, Author; So You Wanna Be a Literary Agent?; October 2006
• Rachelle Gardner; How Do You Become an Agent?; May 2009
• Equery Direct: Selling Screenplays
• Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America: Literary Agents