Arts >> Movies & TV >> Screen Acting

How to Find a Commercial Acting Agent

Commercial actors can make substantial money, particularly on national commercials. While there are some commercial auditions that are open calls, meaning anyone can show up to audition, the vast majority require appointment times. Most commercial casting directors, particularly in large markets like Los Angeles and New York, only submit their commercial needs to agents. In order to be submitted for these roles and then potentially get auditions, you need to have a commercial acting agent.

Things You'll Need

  • Headshots
  • Resumes
  • Commercial reel
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Get commercial headshots taken. As an actor, you must have headshot photographs of yourself to give out to prospective agents, casting directors, directors and other industry people. Generally, a commercial headshot is one in which you are smiling, preferably with teeth. As a majority of commercial spots feature smiling people, casting directors often want to see what your teeth look like. Your commercial headshot should convey good energy and be an accurate representation of you.

    • 2

      Enroll in a commercial acting workshop, if you don't have any commercial training. Commercial agents want to take on actors who will book jobs. Since commercial auditions are quite different than theatrical auditions, you need some training in the field. Commercial workshops will train you in a variety of audition techniques.

    • 3

      Mail your commercial headshot and resume to agents in your area. Include a brief cover letter, explaining why you would be a good fit for that particular agency. If you have booked prior commercials, tell the prospective agent about those in your cover letter. Make sure to include your contact information so the agent can contact you for a meeting if he is interested.

    • 4

      Compose a commercial reel, if you have prior commercial work. A reel is a short compilation of your best work. Keep your reel under two minutes and put clips of you in commercials on it. This is a good tool to show commercial agents when you meet with them regarding possible representation.

    • 5

      Attend commercial agent workshops. You have to pay a fee to attend these workshops, at which you are given the opportunity to audition for commercial agents. If a particular agent is interested in you, she may contact you after the workshop to set up a meeting. Make sure to bring enough headshots and resumes to give one to each agent there.

    • 6

      Ask friends that are actors for referrals. If you have friends that have good commercial agents, you may ask if they can refer you to their agents. Referrals go a long way in any business so you may be able to get a meeting this way. Be careful when asking your friends for this favor. If they don't seem receptive to the idea, let it go.

Screen Acting

Related Categories