Celebrity Management Versus Agency
If you're trying to build a career in the entertainment industry, it's nearly impossible without either an agent, manager, or both. But what's the difference? Do you need them? And how do you get one?
What Is a Talent Agent?
Talent agents are a regulated portion of the entertainment industry and have the very specific job of finding and securing work for actors, directors, writers, and musicians. Agents work with studios and casting directors to place clients on film productions.
Agents are licensed and work for a talent agency or corporation who engages in the occupation of procuring, offering, promising, or attempting to procure employment for an artist or artists.
A talent agent works on commission, typically no more than 20 percent of any earnings you make as a result of the agent’s work.
An agent is permitted to negotiate contracts for work.
An agent specialises in entertainment niches, like actors, writers, directors, or musicians
Talent agents have a roster of clients and you are not their sole focus.
What Is a Talent Manager?
While agents book you for work, a manager’s job is to provide career guidance and business management.
Talent managers can be anyone a client trusts to manage their business. In many cases, talent managers are family members or friends.
Talent managers work with clients to managing the day-to-day aspects of their career, including scheduling, fielding calls, making sure you meet deadlines, and fulfilling promised deliverables.
Talent managers help hire and manage any staff for a client.
Talent managers handle public relations and media exposure, such as appearances on TV shows, interviews with journalists, and social media presence.
A talent manager can advise career and contracts but cannot negotiate job contracts on your behalf.
Talent managers can advise on income, investments, and manage the monetary flow of a client’s business.
Talent managers usually have only one client and payment is either via salary or commission.
What’s the Difference Between a Talent Agent and a Manager?
Both agents and managers are strategic partners in your career and will work on commission. But there are some key differences between the two roles:
Managers cannot arrange for casting calls, get you work, or negotiate contracts or deals. Agents can.
Unlike agents, managers may have you as their only client, which guarantees a high level of personal attention. They may also stick with you throughout your career.
Typical manager fees may exceed those of an agent; they may run as high as 30 percent.