How to Get a Talent Agent, Even With No Experience

A good talent agent can open doors to auditions you would never see on your own. But agents are selective, and new actors often wonder how to get noticed without credits. The good news is that agents sign new talent all the time when the actor is prepared, marketable, and easy to work with. Here is how to approach it the right way.

Agent vs manager: what is the difference?

• Talent agents submit you for auditions and negotiate bookings. In several states, including California, talent agencies must be licensed. Agents commonly earn a commission of around 10 to 20 percent depending on the type of work.
• Managers offer career guidance, help shape your materials, and often work closely with agents. Managers are not licensed as agents in most states and typically charge a commission as well.

Many beginners start with one or the other. Neither should charge you an upfront fee to sign.

What agents look for in new talent

• A clear type: agents want to know how to pitch you. Think about the roles you would realistically be cast in today.
• Professional materials: a strong headshot, a clean resume, and ideally a short reel or a few self tape scenes.
• Training: ongoing classes show commitment and help you improve.
• Availability and reliability: agents need actors who can attend auditions on short notice.
• A professional attitude: being prepared, polite, and responsive matters as much as talent.

Step by step: how to get an agent with no experience

1. Build your materials. Get headshots that match your type and create a one page resume. Read our headshot guide and acting resume guide.
2. Gain some credits. Student films, community theater, and background work give you something to list and footage for a reel.
3. Research agencies. Look for agencies that represent actors at your level and in your market. Check their client list and reputation.
4. Submit professionally. Follow each agency’s submission instructions exactly. Keep your email short: who you are, what you are looking for, and links to your headshot, resume, and reel.
5. Use referrals. Teachers, casting directors from workshops, and working actors can sometimes recommend you. Referrals often get more attention than cold submissions.
6. Prepare for the meeting. Have a short monologue or commercial copy ready, and be ready to talk about your goals and availability.

Questions to ask before you sign

• What commission do you take, and for which types of work?
• How long is the contract, and how can either side end it?
• Which casting directors and projects do you regularly submit to?
• How do you prefer to communicate, and how often will we check in?
• Is the agency licensed in this state, if a license is required?

If you are asked to pay a signing fee, or to buy photos or classes from the agency before it will represent you, walk away. Our scam red flags guide explains why.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get an agent with no acting experience?

Yes, especially for commercial and print work. Agents sign new talent who have a marketable look, strong headshots, some training, and a professional attitude.

How much does a talent agent charge?

Agents typically take a commission of roughly 10 to 20 percent of what you earn from work they help you book. They should not charge upfront fees.

Do I need a manager and an agent?

Not at first. Many actors start with one. Agents focus on submissions and bookings, while managers focus on career strategy.

How do I send a submission to a talent agency?

Check the agency website for instructions. Most accept a short email or online form with your headshot, resume, and reel links.

Written by the Actors Models Wanted editorial team. Last updated September 2026.