Decide which agents you would like to freelance with if given the opportunity. The Ross Reports are the official listings of commercial and theatrical agents, released every year. If you live in New York, you can purchase the Ross Reports at The Drama Bookshop in midtown. If you live outside of New York, you can purchase the Ross Reports online (see Resources below). Mark agents who are in your area who you are interested in contacting.
Send a headshot, resume and cover letter to the agents on your list. Staple your resume to the back of your headshot with one staple on the top and bottom, and trim around the edges where the resume hangs off the photo. In your cover letter, remember to explain why you chose this agent and refer him to any upcoming performances you have in the area.
Comp the agents on your list for upcoming performances. If you are currently in a show, make sure there are free tickets under the agent's name for any night the agent may want to attend. Agents and their assistants frequently attend performances in their area to look for new talent.
Submit your reel upon request. Do not send your reel unless an agent requests it, which they probably will if they are interested in your look and your resume. If you don't have any experience on videotape, start auditioning for things that are on film or video so you can create a reel as soon as possible. It is possible to freelance with an agent without having much experience or a reel if the agent really likes your look.
Understand that if an agent doesn't reply after 6 months, he probably isn't interested. It is acceptable to send a follow-up postcard a few months after you send your initial packet, and you can continue sending postcards whenever you are performing in a new play or musical in the area. Don't be discouraged, it sometimes takes a long time to find an agent. Continue to develop relationships with the agents on your list as your career blossoms.