Make an Impression - The Agent Meeting

Make an Impression
You’ve landed a meeting with an agent – how do you make the most of it? Remember that this is a job interview like any other, and the same general guidelines apply whether you’re auditioning for a talent agent or applying for an i-banking job. Most of this is a mixture of common sense and charisma, neither of which can really be taught – but we can give you a few basic tips:

1. Be punctual.
This can’t be emphasized enough. First impressions really are the most important, and you want to make a good one.

2. Dress for success.
What you wear will depend on the particular market and type of agent you’re auditioning for, and what image you’re trying to convey, and there’s no “formula” for getting this right. But you should put some thought into your outfit – you want to give an impression of confidence and professionalism, and also convey the idea that this meeting is important to you and that you take it seriously. You should absolutely express your personal style – personality is a big part of what agents are looking for – but you want to show respect for the occasion, as well. You also want to be sure to look like you do in your headshot – don’t try to “glamorize” yourself, in either your photograph or your interview. The best advice is just to be yourself.

3. Have two contrasting monologues prepared.
You may be asked to perform one, or both – or neither, but you want to make sure you’re prepared for all eventualities. It doesn’t hurt to have a few “backup” monologues prepared as well, just in case. Most agents will ask you to choose one, and will also ask you to do a cold reading of a scene that they give you (this will usually be a dialogue with the agent himself or his assistant, who will give a “dry” or expressionless reading – don’t let it throw you. Stick to your instincts and you’ll be fine). If at all possible, get some coaching before the interview – never underestimate the value of an outside opinion.

4. Charm their socks off.
The agent will probably ask you questions about your background and personal history – be prepared with a few witty anecdotes about your life. Don’t be a ham – but do think ahead about what questions you might be asked. Think through your answers to basic questions like why you want to be an actor in the first place and what kind of work most interests you. Above all, be honest – save the acting for stage and screen! Remember, there’s a place out there for every type of actor, and an experienced agent will see right through you if you try to glamorize yourself or act like someone you’re not. The better your agent knows you, the better he’ll be able to represent you later on.

5. Have a few questions prepared.
Remember that the interview is for you as well as for the agent. Take this opportunity to get answers to any questions you may have about this agency and its services, or about the industry in general. You want to be sure you’re making the right choice of agent – and it also looks good to ask your interviewer questions after he’s done with his questions for you. It shows that you’ve done your research and are serious about landing the job.

Most agents will offer to sign you on the spot at the end of the interview if they intend to do so at all. There are, of course, exceptions to this rule – and some agents will offer to “hip pocket” you, or represent you unofficially on a trial basis. This is a perfectly legitimate arrangement – but before accepting an offer like this, you want to be sure you’ve made the right choice of agent, or at least that you’ve eliminated all of your other possibilities. If you receive an offer of a hip-pocket arrangement and you’re not 100% certain, don’t be afraid to tell the agent that you have a few more appointments to keep and that you’ll get back to him (even if this isn’t entirely true). This is a decision that could make or break your career – don’t rush into anything!

Following the steps outlined above will get you on the right track – but the best advice anyone can give you for landing an agent is just to stick to your guns and keep putting yourself out there. You have to be tenacious to succeed in the entertainment industry – be doggedly persistent, try to project a positive attitude at all times, and one day you just might make it after all.