Commercial Print Instructor, Scott Powers provides us with an inside look of what to expect from an Agents' Office.
[Agent offices] come in all sizes and shapes. Just like agents, actually!
Some agent's offices give off a friendly vibe, others just cold. Some are professionally organized, others outdo a college dorm room. Don't let any negativity or weirdness impact on you. Always think: happy, bouncy perky. You're the talent. Again, rise above the fray. Some offices seem to be out of control, especially if they're working on last-minute castings. Don't get caught up in the chaos; keep your cool, your focus. Remember if you're kept waiting, don't get upset -- at least visibly. Waiting means that office is really busy with casting and that's where you want to be! If you walk into an office and they have all the time in the world to chat with you, you may have a great meeting, but the volume of work coming out of that office may not be want you want.
But what is going on while you are present doesn't tell all. Note that the commercial side of an office tends to be more hectic with bookings for the next day; the legit side can be more peaceful, working on castings done for upcoming projects, not necessarily so time sensitive. Same office, split personalities.
An interesting observation: some offices in our industry do not, or no longer, have air conditioning. [They just] can't afford it. Keep this in mind during the spring/summer months. Refrain from the cliché actions of fanning one's self with your headshot, looking inconvenienced or staring like a silent Friedrich, whose compressor died three years ago. Just think, YOU don't work there every day!'''
This is your chance to make a great first impression within a matter of minutes. Are you setting the stage for a profitable relationship?
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