Wait until you've gained some experience before you approach an agent. Even though you may want to immediately sign with an agent when you decide to pursue an acting career, hold off until you have found some work on your own. If you approach an agent too early in your career and they decide not to represent you, they may not reconsider once you're more established.
Establish yourself as a professional by finding roles without an agent and building a solid body of work. Even without an agent, you can still obtain roles in student films, commercials or low budget productions. You'll have a much better chance of catching an agent's attention this way, and they may even seek you out.
Develop skills that may be appealing to an agent and that set you apart from other actors. Examples of skills are the ability to sing, dance, practice martial arts or speak in different accents.
Prepare your headshot and resume before sending them out to potential agents. Get a professional 8-by-10 headshot and follow the industry-standard format when writing your resume. A professional headshot and resume will convey your image to a potential agent and give them an idea of how to market you.
Research online to discover what types of talent an agent currently represents. Also check whether they book for print, television, film, live theater, commercial work or a combination. Approach agents only after you've determined that you'd be a good fit for their agency.
Demonstrate that you're easy to work with by following protocol. Don't call an agent or walk into their office. Instead, write them a formal cover letter asking that they consider representing you. Submit the cover letter, an 8-by-10 headshot and a resume to the agent's office. If you haven't received a response within a week, follow up by phone. Ask if they received your materials and if they are interested in proceeding further with you.