Should I Stay or Should I Go: Agency Edition

So, you have an agent and maybe even a manager. What you’ve worked so hard to obtain has finally been achieved. Now, it’s time to sit back, relax and put your feet up. Right?!…Wrong.

There are levels to everything. The same way you had to fight to get the attention of casting directors when you did not have representation is the same determination you must have if you want your agent to see you as someone worth constantly submitting.

Did you ever think that they wanted to sign you because in the meeting with them you mentioned all of the relationships you’ve created with casting directors and how you managed to get in audition rooms without an agent? They saw this upon signing you and don’t want this dedication to stop. It can’t stop. An agent can submit your LA Casting until they’re blue in the face, but if your materials aren’t getting you into the audition room then this is when communication is key. Now of course you could just have bad representation but for the sake of this article, let’s say they are one of the good ones; one that you’ve coveted for some time and now that you’re with them, you want to cultivate this relationship and make the most of it.

The 6-month mark is a great time for evaluation. This is when you should reach out to your agent and ask them how things are going. Be sure to know your agent’s preferred method of communication in order to avoid a response that you’re not too fond of. Do they prefer emails? Would they rather set up a face to face meeting? Once you’ve determined this, reach out to them with a simple “How are things?” I wouldn’t dive too much into the reason for your communication up front as agents have dealt with unsatisfied talent for as long as they’ve been in existence. Keep it general. Allow them to take a stab on why they think you’re reaching out. Each situation is different, but you may hear that it’s slow right now. It very well could be, but even if it’s slow you still should be getting submitted. (You can even ask them for a submission report.)

Or they could say “Let’s take a look at your profile to see if there is anything that can be done to increase your auditions,” (especially if it’s not the case of it simply being slow.) If the latter is their response, then you’re in a good place. You have someone who is willing to work with you as they value your roster spot. They see you as marketable, so be open. Do listen to their feedback. It could be the dreaded “you need more headshots,” or it could be getting additional training on your resume. Take all of this information as constructive and valuable. After all, they don’t have to tell you any of this as improving “you” is a manager’s job and a job of self.

Once you’ve added recommendations if needed, give it 3 more months. If you still are not going out and if not under contract, the option to part ways is completely on the table. It’s your career. Don’t waste it on someone not representing you the best way possible!