Hi all! I am currently have agency representation but my agent doesn't seem to be doing much for me. I have not been sent on an audition in over a month. I have been getting auditions for myself, mostly for student projects, promos, etc. Is it out of reach to try to get auditions for episodic television on my own? I have done tons of student films and such and my resume is very much lacking in credits. I would like to add some bigger credits to my resume before trying to get better representation.

Hi littlejuliet,
Well, never say never, but it's unlikely you'll get seen for episodics on your own submissions. It's possible, just quite unlikely. Do you have a commercial rep? It might be nice to get that part of the business going while you work to build your theatrical demo through student films, etc. If you are with a good commercial agent the auditions should definitely increase.

Jackie, what's the best way to go about getting a commercial agent? Is it really just sending out headshots and resumes?
I'm sort of freelancing with one that I got through a friend of mine here in NYC. And while this agent has done a lot for my guy friend, she has only sent me on one audition in the 5 months since we met, when she had told me " You've got a great look, I can definitely do something with you!"
So about a month ago, I called her to tell her I got a new headshot and would be sending it (I figured it woudl be a good way to get back into her view without being al "hey why don't you ever call me for auditions???) And she was very rude! She snapped at me, rattled off her new email and hung up! Now I'm sure she's busy, but if an agent can't even take five senconds to give me her email so I can give her my most updated stuff, then I think it's time to start looking for a new one, right???

Why would you want an agent like that anyway?

Do not give an agent your power. They work for you. Many actors are desperate and will allow themselves to be treated poorly.

Find a better agent. Go to seminars, do mailings, ask for a referral. Submit yourself on actorsaccess and nycastings.com

Never allow someone to treat you badly. And the fact you are freelancing with this agent means you are not on the top of her list anyway.

Self respect is key. Better agents out there for you. These people are on your team, and only get paid if you do. Never give away your power. You own your own company. You.

There are many good commercial agencies here in New York. The best way to find out about them is to talk to all your friends and other actors you meet about who they are with. Ask them how they are treated, what they like about them and what they dislike about them. Make sure you get agents names and when you send your H/S and Resume, direct it to that agent and mention the person who told you about them. After sending the H/S follow-up with postcards about once a month.

Another good way to meet agents is to attend seminars. Yes, I know there is a lot of controversy about paying to attend these seminars, but what other choice do you have? It is simply a good way to get on their radar. Again, make sure you follow-up with the agents you meet with postcards.

If you get interest, during the meeting get a feel for the agent and how they treat people. If they are rude and disrespectful, then don't deal with them. It is not true that any agent is better than no agent. Work with agents you get a good feeling from, you will be happier!

Thanks Bob C and amo37! You're right, I shouldn't be treated that way. I guess I'm still a little insecure since I'm new at all this. Thanks again!

Hi again, Bob C is right about asking around and talking to fellow actors. You can also do a larger mailing from an agency list like the one the Ross Reports publishes or from an online listing of commercial agencies. I liked working with the commercial agents at my theatrical agency, when I was in NY and in LA, so there are great commercial agents who work within the construct of a larger agency in a commercial dept. too. At this point, a larger mailing and some workshops might be good places to begin. And keep your eyes open for low budget or spec commercials you can self-submit to, as well.

As for the agent. This reminds me of doctors. SO many doctors are rude and rushed and treat you like someone they just need to get out of their way. I don't think it's intentional, it's just because they are overbooked and overworked. Yesterday, I saw a doctor that sat with me in his office (in chairs, no less, no paper gowns) for a half hour to TALK with me about my medical history, symptoms, ect. and asked me "does this test sound like something you'd like to do?" etc. It was amazingly different from what I've ever experienced before. And this was just a routine check up, first meeting with a new doc.

I guess what I am saying is that the good ones are out there. Even if they have bad days, they do exist!

Now, while you're just starting out you may have to deal with some cranky agents for a while, and if you don't have another rep you might give this person another chance while you search and build credits. But try not to take the rudeness personally. You have every right to call your rep to tell them you are sending new shots. In fact, it's a responsibility.

I always find it odd that Actors feel that they cannot call their agents up and check in.
If you're a signed talent, than in the strict sense of the relationship- the agent works for you.
LittleJuliet, dont be insulting but a quick call or email to your agent wouldn't be out of line. And when you book the student stuff; tell your agent-

You and your agent should be a team, and you shouldnt be afraid to talk to them.