The Talent Agent Interview: Expanding My Representation

The author, an actor with representation in the southeastern US, gained a referral to another agency based in St. Louis. He sent a standard portfolio package and participated in a successful virtual meeting involving self-introduction, performance of a monologue, and a cold read. These seemed to impress the two boutique agency representatives present, leading to an immediate offer of representation, possibly extending to Chicago due to their close connections there.

Representation: How to Know You’re Ready for an Agent

New actors do not necessarily require representation to begin their careers. Determining indicators to know when to approach an agent include having sufficient acting training and industry experience, possessing professional headshots and a well-structured resume, owning a demo reel, showing a professional attitude, understanding your "type," building industry relationships, and having confidence and commitment. Once these indicators are met, actors can research and engage potential agents, prepared for competition and possible rejection.