Getting An Agent

Ziga Poromon

An Agent for Actors

*This article will focus on finding an agent for performers, specifically actors.

What is an Agent? 

- a talent agent is someone who finds jobs for performers (actors, dancers, authors, athletes, etc.) they represent. They will submit talent for auditions, pitch them for roles, and negotiate or renegotiate contracts. The biggest agencies in the industry are CAA (Creative Artists Agency represents acts such as; Zendaya, Jenna Ortega, and Jason Bateman) and WME (William Morris Endeavor represents acts such as; Gemma Chan, Tom Holland, and Barry Keoghan).

Actors are encouraged to find agents at the start of their careers. But, it's important to note that you don't need to rush to sign with an agent. Many performers have successful careers without ever having an agent. The goal is to further your career in the industry, and an agent can help you do that. They also act as your advisors if you're struggling to navigate the industry your in.


Finding an agent: Ask creatives in the community or use social media to discuss. They can recommend an agent for you, or just give their opinion on particular agencies. Searching online is also a great way to find agencies. If you're just starting out, it's most likely you'll sign with a smaller agency. As you progress in the industry and gain more experience, you'll have a better chance at signing with a top agency. And always read the contract, from front to back!

Keep at your craft; attend classes and legitimate events or conventions, update your headshots, create your own projects to showcase them to agents, audition for local jobs, and keep your passion alive. One day, the right person will see your hard work and talent.


RED FLAGS ๐Ÿšฉ: Never pay an agent up front. They get paid when you get paid (they will take a percentage out of your cut). When I was interviewing with a potential agency, the agent was exhibiting unprofessional behavior (late, rushed manner, interrupting me, not really focusing on what I was telling them). Basically it felt like I was wasting their time. Anyway, they offered me a contract the same day and straight up told me that there is a $300 administrative fee, and I would need to pay it within 24 hours, as well as sign the contract. What! I was getting a bit desperate for an agent at the time, and thought to myself, "maybe they will be good for me." But my better side told me to talk with my parents (who don't know much about the industry, but are intelligent people), and do extensive searches/research on the agency. I also remembered an industry professional say that you shouldn't have to pay to have an agent. My research also concluded that the agency had a scammy past, so I passed on them.


How I Found My Agent

In Spring of 2022, I visited Toronto for CMTC. I was able to learn from actual agents, as well as perform/audition for them. I was also taking an acting course at AAFTA, which opened my knowledge of what an agent does, and when to look for one. After these experiences, I felt more confident to seek an agent in my city. I also knew that I had a somewhat strong resume for someone at my experience level. I did a lot of Google searches on local agents. I also checked their reviews and current roster. I had some really good (and bad) interviews with a few modeling and acting agents, but I was still unsure. I finally found my current agent, who is amazing, and I've been booking jobs since signing with her in Summer of 2022. Patience was the key for me, and still is.

Take your time. Sometimes you won't get signed to the agency you like. Sometimes you might endure bad experiences with an agent and cut them off. But don't give up hope. Eventually, you will develop a relationship with a trusting agent who supports you and the success of your career.



Honorary Reporter, Ziga Poromon, #WeAreHere, Asia Lab.

Instagram: @zigaporomon

Twitter: ZiigCreatives