Mastering Agent Meetings: 15 Must-Ask Questions for Actors
Imagine having an agent who's not just a business contact but a real partner. Someone who gets your vision, champions your talent, and works with you as an equal. Sounds like a dream, right? Building this kind of relationship is a three-step process.
First, you need to send out compelling queries that not only catch attention but also initiate a personal connection. Secondly, once you start receiving meeting requests, it's crucial to do your homework. This means thoroughly researching the agents you’ll be meeting with to formulate appropriate questions. In this article, we’ll focus on turning those essential meetings into empowering conversations that lay the groundwork for a successful working relationship.
Believe it or not, you have more power than you think—it all begins with how you set up that relationship. This isn't just about ticking off your questions, but about building a meaningful, two-way relationship.
Reducing Nerves and Preparing Questions
Know your questions and practice them until they roll right off your tongue. Don’t feel bad if you need to have them on your phone or a notebook in front of you—it’s not the end of the world. Your agent will appreciate that you come prepared with a list of questions, and they’ll likely have questions for you too. Just remember, don’t take notes during the meeting. Try to remember everything, and then right after, slip into the bathroom and record everything on your phone or write it down so you don’t forget.
Conversation Starters, Not Tests
Think of your questions as conversation starters. They’re not set in stone, and they’re not a set of true/false questions for the agent to pass or fail. The goal is to see if you click with the agent and if they're responsive.
Be Curious and Comfortable
Stay curious. Treat your potential agent like any interesting person you might meet. Let your curiosity guide where the questions go. Think of the list of questions as something to keep in the back of your mind. They’re helpful but not set in stone; if you miss a few, you can always follow up with an email.
Remember, this meeting is as much for you as it is for your agent. You're checking them out just as much as they are checking you out.
The 15 Must-Ask Questions
Here are the key questions that will help you understand how an agent could boost your career and whether they're a good fit for you:
Tell me about your journey in the industry. How'd you get your start as an agent?
This question is an icebreaker and helps build rapport by giving you insight into who motives them.
How long have you been an agent and what kind of clients do you normally represent?
Why ask this? It helps establish their experience and the kind of clients they work with.
How do you typically help your clients grow their careers?
This reveals their working style and approach to client management.
What's your strategy for pitching clients for auditions?
A solid strategy indicates they are actively pursuing opportunities for their clients.
How do you help your clients with career development and long-term planning?
Why ask this? It shows their investment in your long-term goals.
What makes you excited to work with a new client?
Why ask this? It helps you understand what they value in clients and their level of passion and commitment.
This one assumes you’ve done your research and is hypothetical based on what you discover: I see you have a strong presence in both theatrical and commercial representation. How do you balance these, and what are your goals in these areas?
Why ask this? This shows you’ve done your homework and reveals how they strategize.
Which casting directors or industry people do you have the best relationships with?
This shows their network strength, which is crucial for getting opportunities.
How do you keep up with new projects and casting calls?
Why ask this? Staying on top of new opportunities shows their proactiveness.
What do you see as the next steps for my career based on where you see me right now?
This makes it a collaborative discussion and shows if they have a clear vision for your career.
What's your favorite way to stay in touch?
Why ask this? Communication is key, and this sets expectations for how you’ll work together.
What's your favorite way to network?
Understanding their networking habits can tell you how they maintain industry connections.
What tips do you have for me right now to improve my visibility and marketing within the industry?
Why ask this? Well, for one, it gives you actionable advice that you can put immediately into play. And number two, an agent who offers actionable tips is somebody who is showing that they are committed to seeing you improve.
Can we talk about the terms of your agency agreement, like commission rates and contract length?
Why ask this? Understanding the business side is crucial. Plus, this question ensures that there aren't any unpleasant surprises when it comes to reading that contract.
What do you usually include in your welcome package for new clients?
Understanding the resources and support available will make your transition smoother.
Put these questions in your back pocket to give you a bit of insurance, but make sure to also do your research and adapt these questions to fit your needs. I wish you lots of luck in your future meetings. I hope you get your dream agent!!
By the way, if you’re a trained actor, serious about your career but struggling to get to the next level, then book an appointment with me. It’s free, and together we can figure out if you’re a good fit for my program, and if you’re not, we’ll figure out the next best steps for your journey together.
Until next time, you stay your bold and beautiful self.
Anne