In Hollywood, agents are responsible for procuring work for their clients. Agents use their existing relationships with television networks, producers, and casting directors to help secure auditions and jobs for their clients. Agents are also responsible for negotiating the terms of the deal associated with an on-camera job.

It’s important to know that agents tend to specialize in different areas of the entertainment business, so it’s often necessary to have more than one agent. Examples of different types of agents include: literary, hosting/broadcasting, commercial, music, voice over, theatrical, new media, and TV/film.

In Hollywood, there are hundreds of agencies ranging from very small niche/boutique agencies to very large corporate agencies. Each artist has different needs, so it’s important to do your necessary due diligence and to weigh all of your options with regard to an agent.

- Alec Shankman / Talent Agent, Abrams Artists Agency