THIS BLOG IS FOR THE ACTOR & MODEL!

I am constantly amazed by the wild misconceptions, incorrect assumptions and beliefs that are spread throughout the talent industry.  Years ago when I was a working talent, I found myself hearing the same stories . . . asking these same questions . . . wishing for some reliable resource.  Even for those who are willing to self-educate, there is nowhere to turn – no “how to” or “book for dummies” to consult.   The books that have been written are not all -inclusive and are likely not relevant to your situation.  In a frustrating and emotionally charged line of work, a lack of know-how can bring us to our boiling point for even the most socially competent talent!

 

I’ve been working on this blog idea for a few years in hopes of being able to speak to the issues that plague a model and/or actor.  I glean the trusted advice from working industry professionals, consider my own experience as a performer, and track the progress, challenges, successes, choices, and efforts of the talent I represent. 

 

This blog is for you – the actor and the model.  What to expect?  A continuously morphing community that deals with the NOW - the industry is growing faster than you can track.  Since books on the library shelves are long outdated (like the new computer you bought 6 months ago), the consistently updated information within this blog will be a source of up-to-the-day information in a changing-by-the-minute industry.

 

What you won’t find here . . . 

Gossip.  It’s the one thing that I won’t engage in.  (I’m not saying you can’t – just don’t expect me to join in.)

An instruction manual.  Although the information will be valuable, each talent’s individual situation may vary slightly.  If you have a specific question about your situation, ASK ME!

What YOUR agent is doing wrong.  I focus on speaking in facts.  What I suggest or cite as something I do with our agency’s talent does not make it right or wrong for your agent.  Watch for more in a later blog on this subject.

All the answers.  If I don’t know the answer, I will say so and we’ll find it together. 

 

So sign up to follow the helpful advice, tips, and secrets that will make YOU the success you have always dreamed of being!  And while you’re here, tell me what questions plague you most about being a talent – I’ll speak to them specifically in blogs to come.

 

Cheers and I look forward to watching you grow and prosper in this exciting industry!

 

Melinda Eisnaugle

Agency Director

The Avenue Agency

 

Comments

[Janet Ivey]

Dear Melinda! This is fantastic! I get asked questions all the time. It seems like 'talent' or parents of 'talent' are afraid to rock the boat or ask questions of agents. What do you say to parents or newbies about asking questions, being truthful and being an integrous actor?

Also, if an actor feels he/she is not getting enough calls by their agent, what is the correct protocol?

Thanks for being such a wonderful agent in this community!

Blessings and Peace,

Janet Ivey

[Melinda]

Janet,

These are great questions -- and the whole reason I've launched this blog. Feel free to refer your talent friends (and their parents) to the blog so that they can comfortable ask their questions!

Talent frequently rock the boat just because they anticipate not being received well. That fear can lead them to asking their question in a way that puts the other person on the defensive -- no one wants to be on that side of a conversation! I suggest that talent ask questions only after considering the other person's (or their agent's) point of view. It will help them better word the inquiry and their delivery will likely be less [passive] aggressive. Integrity is everything, so just keep in mind that we all want to be treated politely and professionally, especially if we expect the same in return.

The agent/talent relationship is supposed to be a trusted partnership. The talent must feel comfortable asking questions. Look for a blog in the weeks to come that deals directly with that relationship.

The actor who feels slighted needs to approach their agent in the manner indicated above. Set up a meeting and start by asking the agent if you have supplied them with all the materials they need in order to work you properly. (I have talent who expect me to market them, but have yet to provide me with images to do so - big disconnect!) If you have supplied your agent with everything, ask them about the ebb and flow of your demographic. They can't book you on work if the clients aren't shooting it. If all else fails and there is still a disconnect between talent and agent, directly ask how the two of you can build a better relationship and then act on the suggestions they give you. Agents get pulled a lot of directions and have to make a lot of people happy during the course of their day, but the bottom line is that we are all people; we all have shortcomings, strengths, and feelings. Being transparent & respectful enough to work with partners through every aspect of the relationship will assure a long lasting healthy team effort!