Know How to Find a Hollywood Acting Agent Before You Start Your TV or Movie Career

Acting Agencies In Hollywood

Do you really want to become a Hollywood actor or actress? If so, are you represented by an agent? If not, now is the time to find one.

Your chances of landing roles in Hollywood television shows and movies significantly increase when you have a qualified acting agent in your corner. So, how do you find one?

Regarding Acting Agents in Hollywood

When it comes to finding a Hollywood agent, you may be wondering where to start. You do have a number of different options. Your best bet is to purchase printed guides. These guides are available through a number of different avenues.

In and around this town of movie stars, they are found for sale in many retail stores. These guides can also be purchased online.

Buying A Guide

When purchasing a printed guide that focuses on Hollywood acting agents, look at what you are buying first. There are many books written on the subject. Yes, you want tips to help you land a good agent, but you must first know where to look. For that reason, buy guides such as the Hollywood Representation Directory, where casting agents, literary agents, and so forth are outlined for you.

How to Find A Hollywood Acting Agent Online   When finding a Hollywood agent, many hopeful actors turn to the Internet. This is an okay approach to take, but be cautious. Know that it is very easy to setup a professional website.   And, anyone can claim to be anything when it comes to the Internet.

If you do decide to surf the Internet to find an agent, do the proper amount of research first. Visit consumer-reporting websites, also known as scam websites, to see if any complaints have been filed. Ask around. Always visit and meet with an agent or agency in-person before agreeing to let them represent you.

Hollywood Agency Scams and Tricks

One of the biggest concerns of finding an acting agent solely with the use of the Internet is scams. There is an easy way to avoid common Hollywood agent scams. Although this is something that you may not want to hear, an agent chooses you, not necessarily the other way around.

You may find an acting agent that comes highly rated and recommended, but he or she may choose not to work with you. It all depends on what they are looking for and how well you can sell yourself. A true Hollywood agent will not accept you as a client without first seeing you perform or at least seeing a headshot.

Just Ask!!

Another easy way for you to find a Hollywood acting agent is to simply just ask around. If relocating, this is best done once you arrive in Hollywood. If you are able to network with other hopeful actors, inquire as to who represents them. Be sure to ask for feedback.

You can also ask questions when around professionals. For example, are you taking an acting class? If so, inquire about local or quality agents. Those who have been the business a while, even just operating an acting school, can provide you with helpful feedback and suggestions.

How to Make Sure An Acting Agent Choosing You

Are you interested in becoming the next big Hollywood star? If you are, you will want to have an agent in your corner. Yes, it is possible to find acting jobs on your own, but did you know that many major television and movie studios rely on agents to do the “dirty,” work for them. That so called dirty work involves sorting through qualified and unqualified candidates.

You Do Need Representation to Get Entertainment Jobs

Since you now know the importance of being represented by a Hollywood agent, you may be wondering how to find them. The good news is that you have a number of different options. One of the most popular approaches is to use the Internet.

This is okay, but use your best judgment. Just because someone has a nice, professional website, it does not mean that they are a legitimate talent agent or a good one.

In keeping with finding a Hollywood agent to represent you as an aspiring actor, you have two options that are referred to as your best bets. These options involve networking and purchasing printed guides. In terms of printed guides, there is the Hollywood Representation Directory among others. As for asking others, inquire about casting agencies from those who you meet along the way, such as in an acting class.

Don't Rush In Finding A Hollywood Casting Agent

Now that you know how to find a Hollywood casting agent, you may be ready to get started. But wait! There is one important step you must first take. That step involves preparing. Never meet with a casting agent or agency without first developing a plan. You may be surprised to hear that casting agents actually choose you. So how do you make sure they do?

Just Like the Scouts - Be Prepared

Always be prepared when meeting with an agent. Know what is needed and expected of you ahead of time. If specific requests weren’t made, use your head. For example, bring a headshot of yourself, prepare a monologue, bring a copy of your resume, and so forth. On that same note, agencies will usually tell you ahead of time what is required of you. If not, ask, as it cannot hurt.

Another easy way to make sure you are selected for representation by a Hollywood agent is to avoid making common mistakes. As previously stated, the biggest mistake you can make is being unprepared. Next, not acting interested or acting too interested can hurt you. Be yourself. Leave the acting for when you are asked to read sample lines.

It's Not Time To Act - It's Time To Be Yourself

As a test, many acting and talent agencies ask to you to talk about yourself, such as what brought you to Hollywood. Some say the worst thing you can do is recite your resume word for word. Be creative. Tell a little creative story. With that said, if credentials or experience is involved, do not over-exaggerate. Talk about your high school or college play with excitement.

Don't Call Us - We'll Call You

After meeting with an agent, you may hear “we will get back to you later.” This does not necessarily mean no. So, use this to your advantage. Send a quick reminder note in a few weeks or months. With that reminder note, include tickets or information for a local performance you will be in. Some agents and agencies only accept a limited number of new clients each month.

Find A Hollywood Acting Agent With The Right "Fit"

Most importantly, examine the specialties of all agents you are interested in. For example, some deal only with children, teenagers, or adults. Some Hollywood agents are considered literary agents, meaning they only work with screenwriters. There are also those who specialize in leading roles, secondary roles, movies, and television. Find the match that is the perfect fit for you.

Toot Your Own Horn

Since a Hollywood agent essentially decides if he or she wants to represent you, it is important that you sell yourself. Through confidence and research, you can have an agent believe it is a mistake not to represent you.

The steps mentioned above are ones that you can take you help you find a Hollywood talent agent and avoid costly mistakes. With that said, remember that not only do you choose agents to meet with, but they choose if they want to work with you.

For that reason, take the time to prepare for your appointment. Should you be denied, do not let that denial be the end, as the area is full of Hollywood acting agents for you to contact.