Interview with an agent - preparation - suggestions welcomed

Hi Folks, I am wondering what ones need to prepare for and expect in an interview with a potential agent. Also wondering what would be the top ten questions to ask in the interview. Any suggestions more than welcome. Thanks, Tina

Tell them to get fucked, if they piss you around.

When auditioning for an agent they will generally tell you what they want to see. Most agents ask to see two contrasting monologues (ie. one classical and one modern, one comedic and one serious etc.) Choose two monologues which show off your talents well. If you aren't comfortable with Shakespeare don't do it (unless of course they specifically ask for it). Make sure you are very well prepared before you go in to audition for them. Most agents will only give you a shot every 6months or so, so if you blow it by being underprepared than you will have to wait for a second chance. Agents tend to audition on a regular basis, every week, fortnight, or month. Don't feel like you need to take the first date they offer. It is better to wait and be prepared than audition in a week and still be learning your material. Don't take things too personally. Some agents choose who they do and don't put on their books, on the strangest things. You may be a brilliant actor but they have three other people who look like you and have the same expereince so they are less likely to put you on their books. Other agents may take you simply because they don't yet have for example a 22 year old blonde girl (or other similar trait). When you go in make sure you ask: 1. How much do you have to pay to go on the books? - ideally you shouldn't have to pay for anything except your photographs, internet listing and card listing. 2. Do you have to have photographs taken with their photographer? - if you have recent (ie no more than 12months old) photos ask if you can use them. You may have to pay extra though. 3. How do I contact you? - Your agent should be contactable by both phone and email 4. What type of work do you book? - some agents specialize in specific types of actors, such as childrens entertainment, others have singers on their books, some have people who just do voiceovers. Make sure you are with an agent who will be able to get you work that refelcts your talents. 5. What is the turnover time for payment and what percentage do you take? - The standard is between 4 and 8 weeks and between 10 and 15% 6. Am I able to do amateur, pro-am or paid work which I don't recieve through the agency? - Most agents are fine with this as long as you let them know when you won't be available. 7. Do you offer classes as well as the agency? - Most agents will be affiliated with an academy or have some sort of training available. Agents like you to keep up with various courses and in addition to this you can add them to your resume. 8. Are there any additional costs involved? - Some agents charge extra if you want to add a showreel or voiceover reel to your online listing, some will offer you discounts to get a showreel or voicereel made with a specific company and they will be aware of the cost. 9. What do I do if something goes wrong on a booking, for example I'm late or sick? - Agents should be able to provide you with guidelines of what to do in this situation. 10. Is there anything else I need to know? Remember an agent is representing YOU!!! You should feel comfortable with your agent and feel able to speak to them when things go well and when you need help. They want you to get work so you both can make money and get your face known. Talk to your agent regularly so they know who you are! Hope this helps!