CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS BLOG . . .
6.) Have you worked somewhat with an agent by now? Have you thought about the holidays? A MODEST gift might be well-received. No one can ever go wrong with liquor and chocolate.
Even better . . . find out what it is that your agent actually likes. The gesture of chocolate is lost on me since I don't like it. Of course, I notice the thought, which is really what counts in the end, but a token of appreciation is valued when done tactfully.
7.) Let an agent know if you have more marketing tools for yourself: do you have a career-oriented Facebook or Myspace. Do you have a link? The new buzz word now is whatsyourlink.
There are also a lot of industry-wide
databases used for submissions today. What online profiles might you
need to create or do you already have accessible for your agent to use?
You likely have a profile page on the agency's website, too. Keep
these online tools updated regularly!
Wanna know a secret? I use the
directions that talent are given through our three step interview
process as a litmus test to see how well they follow directions. Most
of the time, I find myself using their inability to do so as a learning
platform to help them avoid making those same mistakes with CDs or
directors on set. The talent who do not have to be redirected start our
relationship with a full vote of confidence, which admittedly gives
them a head start.
9.) Where is that reel? Agents looove looking at their actor's 2-3 minute reels - of principal work. Work on getting one that fits those requirements.
Not only do WE love it, but so do CDs
and production people when they are first getting to know you as a
talent! Be wise with this step, however -- just because you have the
footage doesn't mean it should be shared as a reel. Get your agent's
direction when putting it together or ask for help editing it so that it
will be tailored to your market's needs.
10.) Have you ever been in a personal relationship? You know it takes
time and work to make it work.
I share with our talent in the very
first step of our interview process that things won't always be peachy.
Personality differences have to be settled. Modes of communication
have to be etched smoothly. Past experiences and baggage will affect
reactions to things that will arise. Working through these
complications TOGETHER with trust and cooperation is the only way to
build a quality relationship. And once that relationship has been
built, a continued effort to have effective communication will be
necessary. Expect the rough patches and embrace them in order to get
through to the good stuff!
These points above will help you develop your relationship with agents. They are your go-between for the good jobs. It is necessary work and the payoff, when it happens, can be so sweet.
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