How to Interview a Talent Agent

Talent agents are busy salespeople with all too many people craving their attention.

If you are able to schedule a meeting with an agent, it is usually a sign the agent is willing to work with you. Talent agents are notorious for being abrupt, haughty and short on time. The key in interviewing a talent agent is to spend most of the time listening and taking notes. Have a few questions of your own to ask, but don't expect much time once the agent is done talking.

Instructions

1. Make eye contact when speaking to the agent and do not look away. Talent agents are in a tough business. Eye contact will help establish your authority as a desirable talent.

2. Speak quickly and clearly. Know your questions ahead of time and ask them once prompted to do so by the agent.

3. Ask if the agent charges you any money. If the agent charges a fee, it is not necessarily a sign that the agent is not reputable. However, agents that charge fees make most of their money by doing so -- and not earning commissions placing talent in jobs.

4. Determine if the agent is associated with one of the major talent unions. Agents that abide by union rules and regulations are the most reputable and have access to the best jobs.

5. Ask the agent about his or her preferred communication method. Cell phones are a must for last-minute auditions. Many may request that you accept text messages. Ask about the hours of the day the agent expects you to be available for calls or texts.

6. Tell the agent if you have a lawyer and a manager. Successful performers will have an agent, a lawyer and a manager, so it should be acceptable. Give the agent their names.

7. Offer a firm handshake and leave quickly. The more confident you are -- and the less you seem to care about getting an agent -- the more likely you are to get signed by a talent agency.

References

• Acting Biz: How to Find a Talent Agent
• Gig Salad: About Talent Agents and Representation