Most talent report feeling intimidated when they
meet with a new agent for the first time. Their impression is
understandable considering that an agent’s day is frequently spent putting out
fires and juggling emotions from both casting directors, directors,
producers, and the talent themselves. There are ridiculous demands on the
agent’s time, which encompass the full 24 hour day and include weekends.
Stress is the agent’s way of life.
So what can you glean about the agent? As a
career, we are busy and have to get to the point. In a culture where we
hope to be coddled, having someone get to the point strikes us as harsh and
leaves us uncomfortable. Here’s my suggestion about prepping for an interview
with an agent: deal with it. A good agent is a busy agent, so don’t
be upset if they are curt. (There’s always that small chance you might
catch them with a few extra minutes to be more laid back, but don’t plan on
this being the case.)
Every agent runs the interview process
differently. Some do mass open calls where they see everyone at
once. Others don’t take time to see new talent until the talent is making
money (e.g., booking jobs). And there are a few agents who invest in the
relationship enough to do a personal interview. Whichever course the
agent of your desire takes, be willing to follow their direction. The
process is set up to allow the agent to focus on their top priorities, which
are client and working talent needs.
When you get the chance to speak with the agent
face to face, speak their language. I regularly see talent lost in their
own concerns and needs. Talent who understand the business, however,
speak the industry language by sharing special skills, hobbies, relevant
physical abilities and statistics.
What do you imagine an agent would be most
interested in knowing about you?
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