Do’s and Don’ts: What Agents Are (and Aren’t) Supposed to Do for You

In this guide, I’m breaking down the clear do’s and don’ts of working with agents, so you can avoid costly mistakes and build a partnership that actually serves your career.

By the end, you’ll have a crystal-clear picture of what a legitimate agent does — and what they definitely don’t do.

What Agents aren't and are supposed to do for you as an actor

Finding a talent agent can feel like unlocking the next level in your acting career. But if you don’t know what to expect from an agent, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or fall into traps. As someone deeply immersed in the acting world, I’ve seen firsthand how confusing and frustrating it can be when actors don’t know the professional boundaries agents should keep — and what responsibilities agents really have.

Why Is Knowing What Agents Should Do So Important?

An agent is not just a glorified manager or a gateway to roles. They’re your advocate, negotiator, and sometimes your reality check. But the acting industry is filled with myths and scams around agents, especially for emerging talent. Many actors waste time and money on “agents” who overpromise or charge upfront fees. Others get stuck in relationships where communication is poor or expectations are mismatched. Understanding your agent’s role is vital to protect yourself from exploitation and to know when to push back or move on. The agent-actor relationship, when healthy, can be a career game-changer. But it requires clear boundaries and mutual respect — and that starts with knowing what’s normal and what’s a red flag.

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Let’s dive into the concrete responsibilities your agent should be handling — and the things that are definitely not their job.

What Agents Should Do:

• Submit You for Suitable Roles - Your agent’s primary job is to send your materials (headshots, résumé, reels) to casting directors and producers for roles that fit your type and skill set.

• Negotiate Contracts and Fees - They advocate for your pay and working conditions. Legit agents ensure you get fair compensation, especially in union projects.

• Communicate Audition and Booking Opportunities Promptly - Good agents keep you in the loop about auditions, callbacks, and offers with clear timelines so you can prepare.

• Advise on Professional Materials - They might suggest updating headshots or resumes to stay competitive, but final decisions are yours.

• Charge Commission Only When You Get Paid - Standard commission rates hover around 10% for union work. Agents earn only when you do — no upfront fees or “representation charges.”

  
  

What Agents Should Never Do:

• Charge Upfront Fees or Mandatory Payments - Watch out for agents asking for money before booking any work — it’s a common scam.

• Promise Roles or Career Guarantees - No agent can guarantee you a job. If someone says otherwise, run.

• Force You Into Paid Services or Specific Vendors - They can recommend coaches, photographers, or workshops, but you should never be required to use anyone.

• Pressure You Into Roles or Projects You’re Uncomfortable With - Your consent matters. A professional agent respects your boundaries.

• Ask for Personal Loans or Additional Payments - Your agent is a business partner, not a creditor.

Conclusion

Now that you know the clear do’s and don’ts of agent relationships, it’s time to take action with confidence.

Next steps:

• Research potential agents carefully. Look for industry credentials, SAG-AFTRA franchising (if applicable), and reputable referrals.

• Use my Actor’s Journal to track agent communications, submissions, and feedback — staying organized is key to spotting patterns or issues early.

• If you encounter red flags, don’t hesitate to ask questions or walk away. Your career deserves the right team behind it.

  
  

And hey — if you’ve had an agent experience (good or bad), leave a comment below to help others navigate this tricky territory.