The Basics of Agents (for young/new actors)

I had the privilege of working on an NBC sitcom this week, and a young lady who was working as an extra asked me how I got the job. I told her that I had auditioned for the part and then been hired by the producers. She asked me how she could get an agent. So, I'll list here the advice I gave her on "the basics" of acting and getting work:

1. Build up your resume. Audition for local short films or readings at local colleges or theatres. Get everything on tape for your reel (a dvd montage of scenes of your work).

2. Once you've got this, take headshots. These are COLOR, 8x10 photographs that represent you in a natural, yet attractive way.

3. Submit to agents by sending your headshot (with a link to your reel online -- don't send DVDs, they are too expensive!) to agents in your area. The Screen Actors Guild provides a list of these in most major markets (http://www.sag.org).

- You can also be referred to an agent by another actor, so always ask actors who they are represented by and if they would refer you.

- Submit to commercial agents first. It can be easier to get a commercial agent than a theatrical (TV/FILM) agent in most markets.

4. Participate in industry showcases to attract agents to you with your work. NBC, CBS and other networks all do big showcases every year to which you can submit yourself online or by mail.

5. Sign up for LA Casting, Now Casting, and/or Actor's Access. On these sites, you can submit yourself for jobs and be your own agent in the meantime.

Break legs!