How to Become A Talent Agent
Talent agents are professionals who represent writers, actors, musicians, performers, athletes and artists. They work on behalf of their clients and represent their interests. Even though talent agents work behind-the-scenes, they are very important components of the entertainment industry. These professionals act as the middlemen who finalize deals and find work for their clients.
Should I become a Talent Agent?
The following table has all the details about this occupation including the education requirements and job outlook.
|
Education Required
|
Bachelor’s Degree
|
|
Major Requirement
|
Marketing, Film and Communication, English or any other related field
|
|
License/Certification
|
Required in some states
|
|
Experience/Training
|
Required by some employers
|
|
Key Skills
|
Listening skills, Interpersonal skills, Speaking skills, Artistic, Motivational, Persuasive
|
|
Annual Mean Salary (2019)
|
$97,170 (Agents and Managers of Artists, Athletes and Performers)
|
Career Outlook
Talent agents are expected to have excellent interpersonal and communication skills so they can know the interests of their clients and communicate it to people who are hiring. Their job responsibilities also include fair amount of negotiation. With the help of advanced technology, talent agents perform most of their duties online. However, the deal is finalized one on one. Technology and internet have helped agents create new ways to achieve their goals. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual mean salary earned by an agent/manager of an artist, athlete or a performer was $97,170 in 2019. The highest paying states include California, with an annual mean salary of $108,010, followed by Connecticut, paying $107,950.
Steps to Become a Talent Agent
Step 1: Get a Degree
Earning a college degree is the first step towards becoming a talent agent. Having a formal degree helps all aspiring talent agents. There are no specific major requirements, however it is recommended that candidates get their degrees in subjects like marketing, communication, English, business and public relations. Some schools also offer specific courses for aspiring talent agents. These degrees do not qualify you to become a talent agent but you will gain a lot of knowledge which will be useful in the future. Students can also pair one of these majors with minors like production, acting and theater.
Step 2: Contact Talent Agencies
Many agencies do not advertise jobs for talent agents so you may have to call and ask them directly. Knowing someone in the industry helps a lot too. Initially, you may have to take part-time or unpaid positions because it is a type of industry where you have to work hard and work your way up. Keep calling different agencies after every few days because you never know if there may be an open position.
Step 3: Apply for Internships
You have to start your career with an internship. You can either call the agency directly, or find internships online or on related websites. Interns usually have to work with clients. They are responsible for performing some basic tasks like answering phone calls, filing paperwork, etc. Interns need to work hard during this period because some of them are offered a permanent position based on their performance.