You’re Getting Cast for Acting Jobs. Is It Time To Get an Agent or Manager?

So you’re ready to be represented and take your career to the next level. I hear you. That’s a very common goal among actors, no matter where you are. But when is it really the right time? And how does it help? Those are questions we at the New York Acting School would like to address today.

If you’re excited about your acting career starting to really move along, you’re getting cast for many roles and are ready to have a manager or agent, this one’s for you.

So before you consider getting an agent or manager, consider this!

Manager or Agent? Most would agree that managers represent fewer actors and are a lot more involved with each individual actor, while the agents and agencies have more talent on their roster and spend less time with each actor. Agents also don’t have as much time to do certain things that many  managers do try to do, like get you a publicist, pick out headshots, edit your resume, etc.

• A manager's main focus is to guide the actor's career and make connections for them; and although most of the best managers out there are former agents, the two have very different roles.
• Managers don’t have to be state licensed but must register as an official business.
• Don’t jump for the first guy willing to be your agent. Of all the actors that have one, ½ will tell you that they can’t stand the one they have. (If that’s you, get out. Your career is worth it.)
• Commercial and Theatrical Agent. Ever heard of the different terms? The latter doesn’t refer to theater. It’s more like this: Commercial agents will sign based on looks and potential. Theatrical book for TV/Film and base their signing on talent. Theatrical agents are more picky and will usually only sign you once you’ve got credits to prove yourself and they’ll still demand more training. (Smart to keep up your training and get on some quality credits and hold out for the good guys!)

• Management companies usually offer their services in exchange for a 15% commission, though it can sometimes be a little more. A legitimate manager will never ask for money up front. So if they ask for it upfront, run!
• A manager should never, under any circumstance, ask you to remove your clothing or engage in sexually explicit "scenes".
• If an acting manager is legitimate, they likely won't approach an unknown actor. Of course that's the dream - to be discovered, but it's just not likely. A successful manager is already busy with experienced clients, and you'll have to work pretty hard to get their attention.
• A manager should be well connected in the casting community and entertainment industry in general. Once again... do your research. See who they know and who knows them.  This alone, will do a lot for you.

We want to see you succeed. The above is just the tip of the iceberg. But don’t you worry, the New York Acting School for Film and Television knows the industry inside and out. We have plenty of classes and acting coaches available for you to learn, understand and advance your career. Call us today to see if we’re the school for you!