How Do Actors Hire Managers?

How Do Actors Hire Managers?

Understanding the Process of Choosing the Right Representation for Career Success

(By Javier Guerra)

Introduction to the Role of an Actor’s Manager

Managers play a crucial role in an actor’s career. They provide guidance, negotiate contracts, and often serve as a key advisor in decision-making. However, the process of hiring a manager can be a bit mysterious, especially for those just starting their journey in the entertainment industry. This article will explain how actors hire managers, the roles and responsibilities of a manager, and provide examples of how some successful actors have navigated this process.

What Does an Actor’s Manager Do?

Before diving into how actors hire managers, it’s essential to understand what a manager’s role entails. An actor’s manager is responsible for overseeing their day-to-day career decisions, from negotiating contracts and advising on scripts to guiding their professional development. Managers often work more closely with actors than agents, focusing on long-term career strategy rather than just securing individual roles.

The duties of a manager typically include:

• Guiding the actor’s career choices: Advising on scripts, roles, and public image.

• Negotiating deals: Handling everything from pay to perks and ensuring contracts align with the actor’s long-term goals.

• Scheduling and logistics: Ensuring the actor’s calendar is well-organized, especially when it comes to auditions and shoots.

• Handling public relations: Some managers work alongside publicists to maintain the actor’s image in the media.

How Do Actors Find Managers?

Finding the right manager often begins with an actor building their portfolio and reputation within the industry. Most managers are typically found through referrals, either from agents, other actors, or industry professionals who are familiar with an actor’s talent and potential.

Networking: The entertainment industry is driven by relationships. Managers often look for talent at industry events, film festivals, or through recommendations. Networking with casting agents and other actors can help an aspiring actor get noticed by potential managers.

Talent Agencies: Many actors get their first exposure to management through their agents. Agents who already have a relationship with talent managers can recommend actors they believe would be a good fit for their management team. This is often a natural extension of the relationship with an agent.

Online Platforms and Social Media: In the modern age, social media platforms and websites that cater to actors and talent scouts have become key tools in finding management. Some platforms allow actors to create profiles, showcase their work, and connect with potential managers who are actively looking for new talent.

What to Look for in a Manager?

When it comes to hiring a manager, the process is not simply about finding someone who is interested in working with you. It’s also about compatibility. Actors must consider various factors before making the decision to sign with a manager:

1. Experience: Look for a manager with a track record of success in the industry. Experience can mean better access to casting directors, agents, and other industry professionals.

2. Understanding of Career Goals: A good manager will not only understand the industry but also align with your vision for your career. You want a manager who can see the long-term picture.

3. Reputation: The manager’s reputation within the industry can be a good indicator of their professionalism and network.

4. Communication Style: Since managers are involved in day-to-day operations, effective communication is key. It’s important that the manager understands how to communicate with you and vice versa.

5. Personal Compatibility: An actor-manager relationship often becomes very close. Therefore, it’s vital that there’s a level of trust and understanding between both parties.

Steps to Hiring a Manager

When it comes to hiring a manager, actors must go through a process of interviews, negotiations, and contract agreements. Here are the essential steps in hiring a manager:

1. Do Your Research: Research potential managers by reading reviews, talking to others in the industry, and checking out the manager’s past clients and their careers.

2. Schedule Meetings or Interviews: Meet with several managers to discuss your goals and their approach to managing your career. This gives you a sense of their style and how well you might work together.

3. Assess Compatibility: During meetings, assess whether their understanding of your career and personality aligns with your goals. Look for managers who are enthusiastic, respectful, and knowledgeable.

4. Review Terms and Conditions: Before entering into any contract, make sure to review all terms and conditions carefully. Make sure there is clarity regarding their fees (managers typically take 10-20% of your earnings) and what is expected of both parties.

5. Sign the Agreement: Once you find a manager who is the right fit, you can proceed to sign the management contract. Be sure that you fully understand the terms of the contract, including any exit clauses or other stipulations.

Examples of Famous Actors Hiring Their Managers

To illustrate the process, let’s look at some well-known actors who have shared their experiences of hiring managers.

• Will Smith: Early in his career, Will Smith chose his manager, James Lassiter, who has been credited with helping him transition from TV stardom on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air to a successful movie career. Smith has credited Lassiter with understanding the value of choosing roles that would elevate his career rather than just focusing on immediate commercial success.

• Taylor Swift: Taylor Swift is known for her close relationship with her manager, Scott Borchetta, the founder of Big Machine Records. Borchetta discovered Swift when she was just 14 years old and has been instrumental in shaping her career from country music to mainstream pop. Their professional bond exemplifies how a manager can help guide an artist through significant career shifts.

• Leonardo DiCaprio: Leonardo DiCaprio’s long-time manager, Rick Yorn, has been pivotal in the actor’s career, particularly in helping him pick roles that showcase his range. Yorn, who is part of the Creative Artists Agency, has had a close working relationship with DiCaprio, helping him secure iconic roles like Titanic, The Aviator, and The Revenant.

The Cost of Hiring a Manager

Actors must understand the financial aspect of hiring a manager. Unlike agents, who typically work on commission-based pay (usually 10%), managers tend to take a higher percentage of the actor’s earnings, typically ranging between 15-20%. This fee structure is agreed upon upfront in the management contract.

It’s important for actors to be prepared to pay this percentage of their earnings as long as they have an active working relationship with the manager. Typically, the manager’s fee is deducted directly from the actor’s earnings before they receive payment.

Conclusion

Hiring a manager is a critical step in an actor’s career development. With the right guidance, a manager can help an actor navigate the complexities of the entertainment industry, from securing auditions to negotiating contracts and making strategic career choices. The key to a successful manager-actor relationship lies in compatibility, trust, and shared goals for career growth. Actors should be proactive in their search, doing their due diligence to ensure that they find a manager who will help them succeed in an often unpredictable industry.

Acting Magazine Newsletters

Never miss out on the best from Acting Magazine.

Sign me up for the newsletter!