How to Prepare for a Meeting With a Talent Agent

Many talent agents work closely with casting agents and help their clients gain more work.

A talent agent is an individual who will find work for musicians, actors, models or novelty acts. Casting agents many times will work with a talent agent to find the model, musician or act they are looking for. Typically the agent is paid a finder's fee or percentage of what the talent is paid. The minimum fee paid to the talent agent is usually 10%.

Things You'll Need

• Head Shot
• Resume
• Video or Visual Portfolio

Instructions

Talent Agent Requirements

1. Regardless of whether you seek representation as an actor, model, singer or novelty act you will want to have quality photographs taken by a professional photographer. An 8 by 10 black and white or color photograph is preferred with your name clearly marked.

2. Prepare a resume and bring it with you to your audition. If you are an actor, provide details of your recent work from plays, commercials or film. Models should provide a detailed list of where their photographs have appeared in print and clients they have worked with. For novelty and special acts list the kind of work that you do and the venues where you have performed.

3. If you are an actor seeking representation, you should be ready to perform a monologue for the talent agent. The agent will want to see how you perform under pressure. You may also be asked to memorize a short script and interpret the script using various emotions. Likewise, singers may be asked to sing something with background tracks, so be prepared.

4. For bands and variety acts, prepare a short video presentation of a live show. Make sure the video is no longer than five minutes and the piece should be professionally produced. Models may be asked to present a visual portfolio showcasing their various looks and style. The portfolio should only include the most flattering and professional images.

5. Relax and be yourself. Talent agents usually book appointments in 15 minute increments. While you only have a short time to spend with the talent agent, you can still strike up a conversation and be memorable. Enjoy the time you do have with the agent and keep going if you are rejected.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to ask questions. Talent agents don't want to just just talk about you, you should show interest in their capabilities as well. Remember, information should flow back and forth and when it works well, it's an enjoyable experience for both the agent and prospect.

• Avoid any talent agents who require you to pay them upfront fees. Most talent agents will charge you a percentage or fee based on the work they give you.

References

• Acting Biz: Ten interview blunders actors make
• Acting Biz: Grab the casting directors' attention
• Acting Auditions: What to expect when interviewing with a talent anget
• Acting Biz: How to get an agent
• Steve Roddy: How to get signed by an acting agent in New York

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish