Q: How long should I wait before getting an agent? —Iesha W., Arizona
The truth is, there are no hard and fast rules on how long you should wait before seeking representation. If you’re brand-new, with no professional experience, but have a very specific look or type, you just might luck out, get awesome reps immediately, and book a lead in a blockbuster right out of the gate.
While that could happen, it probably won’t. I’m not going to sugarcoat this for you: Why would an agent agree to rep an actor who has zero professional experience? They have plenty of proven actors on their roster who are known in the industry and already book work.
My advice? Before you look for an agent, get out there and audition on your own. Your job for the next year or two is to learn how to audition so you can learn how to book. Get cast in a stage play or a student film. Then get cast in another and another. There is no education like the act of doing something. Make mistakes, make friends, keep up your training, and keep auditioning.
See if you can intern at an agent’s or casting director’s office. You’ll gain invaluable insider knowledge of how the industry works.
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