By: Erin Williamson
Whether or not the name Paul Harper is familiar to you, the advice he has to offer should be made note of. Harper is a big name in the agent world, and gave a workshop at Fringe Central during the festival this year. He stressed the importance of using “Spotlight,” which I’ve learned is like LinkedIn for actors in the U.K.
On your Spotlight page there should be no more than five photos! Do not use character photos; stick to simple headshots: 1) smile, 2) serious, 3) maybe one black and white. On your page you should also include your name, agent (if you have one), and a 2-3 minute show reel. Try to remember that agents make up their mind in the first minute of viewing you, and people talk. Always put your “best foot forward.”
If you are currently working with an agent, and they aren’t working the way you want, find a new one. Although you should not agent hop! An agent is not a pair of socks, you can’t change them every day. Another “don’t” is to not complain in public or on social media about agents/directors/anyone that can ruin your career. So basically keep your negative opinions to yourself! People talk, and that can either make or break your career. Don’t throw everything away for one rude post.
Harper also stressed that you shouldn’t be annoying. If you want someone to represent you or cast you, conduct yourself professionally. This business is like dating; annoying people get dumped!
Whether or not the name Paul Harper is familiar to you, the advice he has to offer should be made note of. Harper is a big name in the agent world, and gave a workshop at Fringe Central during the festival this year. He stressed the importance of using “Spotlight,” which I’ve learned is like LinkedIn for actors in the U.K.
On your Spotlight page there should be no more than five photos! Do not use character photos; stick to simple headshots: 1) smile, 2) serious, 3) maybe one black and white. On your page you should also include your name, agent (if you have one), and a 2-3 minute show reel. Try to remember that agents make up their mind in the first minute of viewing you, and people talk. Always put your “best foot forward.”
If you are currently working with an agent, and they aren’t working the way you want, find a new one. Although you should not agent hop! An agent is not a pair of socks, you can’t change them every day. Another “don’t” is to not complain in public or on social media about agents/directors/anyone that can ruin your career. So basically keep your negative opinions to yourself! People talk, and that can either make or break your career. Don’t throw everything away for one rude post.
Harper also stressed that you shouldn’t be annoying. If you want someone to represent you or cast you, conduct yourself professionally. This business is like dating; annoying people get dumped!