So, I got to LA three years ago and it’s only now that I have 3 agents (commercial/theatrical/voiceover) and a manager. My manager helped me get all three and his faith in me is one of the main reasons why I have been so lucky to have a fighting chance here in LA.
I am on my third commercial agent, and I have a learned a few things:
- just cuz you have an agent, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to start auditioning more
- mailings don’t really work
- those classes you can take with agents and the like are usually not worth your time BUT are worth checking out a few times to get some practice in
- you gotta keep looking for work; your agent will help with the contracts and that kind of thing, but you have to be an active partner
- it’s a business: if your agent is not getting you a few times a month at least—and this lasts for 4-6 months, then you need a new one. we don’t have all the time in the world!
- if you can find a manager whom you trust, count yourself lucky!
- don’t annoy your agent by calling every week to find out why you are not going out
- but don’t let two months go by, either
- once you do start going out, show up to the auditions on time, be prepared, be professional and do your best…then forget about it. if you get called back, great, otherwise don’t sweat it. and don’t call your agent to find out why you didn’t get something.
the biggest thing? Perseverence. It will work out but you really, really, can’t give up.
good luck!
