The most important step before attempting to pick an agent is to decide what you're looking for. Look at your resumé and see what kind of experience you have and the type of work you'd be looking for. Understanding these issues will make it much easier for you to decide which agent best fits your ambitions and talents. Realize that very few actors spend their entire careers with one agent, so as your career changes, so too might your agent.

Research is the key to finding an agent that suits your needs. There are many different questions to consider, such as: are they representing extras or principal roles; union or non-union; number of agents on staff; size of roster and are they looking for experienced actors or are they developing new talent? This can all be found out by reading and asking the appropriate questions of both your peers and prospective agents themselves.

There is work available for actors who self-promote and do not have an agent, so do not sign with an agent out of the fear that you cannot find work otherwise. It is a major step in one's career. Do not take the decision lightly. Often times signing with an agent that is wrong for your needs can place you in a far worse situation than being unrepresented.

It is important to remember the agent's role, ultimately they work for you; they're your employee. Although in the early stages of a career it may be necessary to come to compromises on some issues

, realize that after negotiations are finalized, you are their client and they need to have your best interests in mind; hold them to that.

Experience is often the key to landing a good agent. Do whatever you can to promote yourself and hone your craft: - non-union work, create your own projects, community theatre, student films and videos, co-op productions, anything that will allow you to get your name out in the public and generate a contact list that will help you find an agent worth working with.

After you decide on an agent, make sure you keep a good line of communication open. Dialogue is the key to keeping your interests at the forefront of both parties' minds. Let them know how they're doing and request feedback on what you can be doing to further your career. Working with your agent is always more valuable than working against them, so be open to suggestions and criticisms as it can often help you springboard to that higher level you wish to be at.

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