Many people assume that Talent Agents and Managers do the same thing. That is not true. An actor will hire a manager for help finding work, to give advice, and generally assist in molding an actor’s career.

A manager has more of a personalized relationship with an actor than an agent. Because of that, managers will always have fewer clients than agents. They often classes and assist in putting together headshots.

Managers will also make all your important networking connections. For their services, managers will usually receive a 15% commission.

So what exactly can agents do for you?

Agents, on the other hand, are often the ones dealing with contracts and getting the deal signed. Talented agents will work hand and hand with casting directors finding the right fit. They might send more than one actor to an audition because they are working with a larger pool of talent.

Agents also tend to know more about the ins and outs of the industry and what production companies are gearing up for their next shoot. Often times managers are former agents, and therefore can assist in a variety of ways.

The best managers and agents are well connected in the entertainment industry and have the pull to get you into the right auditions. Productions often prefer to work with talent that has gone through one of those channels. Getting discovered still happens but a helping hand can really work wonders.

By Casting Director Renee Godbout

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