You understand to be diligent and avoid scams, but they seem to be everywhere and you’re losing hope, where else is there to turn?
In reality, you’re acting career is not going to just fall into your lap. You need to know where to look! The very first thing you should be looking for is a legitimate agent. A real agent will find you real auditions, won’t charge an up front cost, and will help you get the start to your career that you need. Even if you’ve started your career, an agent will help propel you even further.
To find one, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open your phone book
Step 2: In the yellowpages find the “Talent Agency” section.
Step 3: Call every single number under that category and ask if they represent actors
Step 4: If not, call the next one
If so, ask them what services they offer and how they represent their talent, as well as ask them what their requirements are to be represented and how you can apply.
If, after looking in the phone book, you still haven’t found what you’re looking for then you can also check out websites like,
If you’re in Canada, try the ACTRA websites, one each for different parts of canada which lists legitimate agencies in your area.
That’s it. I am constantly surprised at the number of people that ask me how they can jumpstart their acting career and then complain about nothing working even though they chose not to follow those above steps. After I tell them to do those 4 steps, they come back explaining how they just keep finding these places that charge exorbitant upfront fees or demand that they take certain classes. After asking them if they followed those 4 steps above, the usual reply is no. Why? Why not try these steps above? Is it because these places that you find in the phone book aren’t making big promises with super awesome cool flashy looking graphics? The numbers you find in the phone book will usually be legitimate agencies (there are of course a few scams of this type as well so you must be always on your guard). Implying that they have connections and will find auditions for you to attend, auditions that are completely free and won’t ask that you pay a dime for anything. If you’re lucky enough to get the part, you and your agent will then make money.
Unless you have personal connections with casting directors themselves, chances are that an agent will greatly benefit you.
Read my next article to find out more information about agents: what to look for and what to avoid.
