Agents vs. Managers: Understanding the Differences and What You Need

One of the most common questions we receive from emerging talent is: "Do I need an agent or a manager?" The answer is that both can play valuable roles in your career, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the distinctions between agents and managers is crucial for making informed decisions about your representation. This comprehensive guide breaks down the key differences and helps you determine which type of representation is right for your career stage and goals.

What Does a Talent Agent Do?

A talent agent is a licensed professional who submits clients for specific auditions and job opportunities. Agents have direct relationships with casting directors, producers, and other industry professionals. They receive casting breakdowns—detailed descriptions of roles being cast—and submit their clients who fit the requirements. Agents negotiate contracts and rates on behalf of their clients, ensuring they receive fair compensation. In the United States, agents are regulated by state labor laws and must be licensed. Agents typically earn 10% commission on jobs they book for their clients. Agents focus on the immediate task of getting you auditions and booking work.

What Does a Manager Do?

A manager takes a broader, long-term approach to career development. Managers help shape your career strategy, advising on which types of roles to pursue, how to build your brand, and how to position yourself in the industry. Managers often work with multiple professionals on your behalf, including agents, publicists, and coaches. They provide career guidance, help you develop your skills, and advise on major career decisions. Managers typically earn 15% commission on all income you earn from entertainment work. Unlike agents, managers are not licensed by the state and are not regulated in the same way. Managers focus on the big picture of your career trajectory.

Key Differences Between Agents and Managers

The primary difference between agents and managers lies in their focus and function. Agents are submission-focused, working to get you auditions for specific roles. Managers are strategy-focused, working to develop your overall career. Agents are regulated and licensed; managers are not. Agents earn 10% commission; managers typically earn 15%. Agents can negotiate contracts directly with producers; managers typically work with agents to handle negotiations. Agents are essential for accessing union work; managers are optional but valuable for career guidance. You can have multiple agents (one per market or medium), but typically work with one manager. Agents focus on immediate opportunities; managers focus on long-term career building.

Do You Need Both an Agent and a Manager?

Whether you need both representation depends on your career stage and goals. Early in your career, an agent is typically more important than a manager. An agent gets you auditions and helps you build your resume. As your career progresses and you start booking more work, a manager becomes increasingly valuable for strategic guidance. Many successful actors work with both an agent and a manager. The agent handles submissions and negotiations, while the manager provides overall career strategy and guidance. However, some actors successfully build careers with only an agent, particularly in commercial and voice-over work. Others work with a manager but self-submit for opportunities.

Finding the Right Agent

When seeking an agent, research agencies in your market and understand their client roster. Look for agents who represent talent similar to you in type and experience level. Attend open calls and submit your headshot, resume, and reel to agencies. Ask for referrals from other actors and industry professionals. Interview potential agents to understand their submission practices and how they work with clients. Avoid agents who charge upfront fees or make unrealistic promises. A good agent should be enthusiastic about representing you and have a clear plan for how they'll submit you for work.

When seeking a manager, look for someone with industry experience and a track record of developing talent. Managers should have relationships with agents, casting directors, and other industry professionals. Interview potential managers about their approach to career development and how they work with clients. Understand their commission structure and what services are included. A good manager should be invested in your long-term success and provide regular career guidance and support.

Red Flags to Avoid

Be cautious of agents or managers who charge upfront fees before booking work. Legitimate representation works on commission only. Avoid representatives who make unrealistic promises about your career or guarantee bookings. Be wary of anyone who pressures you into signing long-term contracts without allowing time to review the terms. Don't work with representatives who don't have industry connections or a clear understanding of your type. Avoid anyone who discourages you from seeking legal advice or reviewing contracts carefully.

Wright Hands Management: Your Career Partner

At Wright Hands Management, we provide comprehensive representation and career guidance for models, actors, and influencers. Whether you need agent services to access auditions or manager services for strategic career development, we're here to support your goals. Our team has extensive industry connections and a proven track record of developing emerging talent. We work with each client individually to understand their unique strengths and career aspirations. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you navigate your career in fashion, media, and entertainment.