How Do I Get an Acting Manager?
A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Right Representation for Your Acting Career
(By Tonya Tannenbaum)
Understanding What an Acting Manager Does
Before seeking representation, it’s crucial to understand the role of an acting manager. Unlike agents who primarily secure auditions and negotiate contracts, acting managers take a more personal and long-term approach. They guide career development, help select scripts, provide branding advice, and assist with major decisions that shape an actor’s image and future in the industry.
An acting manager can be your coach, cheerleader, and business strategist all in one. They’re often more hands-on than agents, especially with new talent, and they can be instrumental in setting up opportunities that lead to major breaks.
Step One: Build a Professional Portfolio
Managers are looking for actors who are already taking their careers seriously. Before reaching out to anyone, you’ll need:
Professional headshots that clearly show your range
A resume listing your experience, training, and special skills
A demo reel (even if it’s short) showcasing your best on-camera work
An online presence, such as a personal website or IMDb page
Take, for example, Samantha, a theater-trained actress in Chicago who decided to move to Los Angeles. She spent a few months filming scenes with friends, updating her headshots, and taking on-camera acting classes. When she finally reached out to managers, her materials showed she was ready—and serious.
Step Two: Do Your Research
Not all managers are created equal. Some work with rising stars, others with established talent. Some focus on theater, others on TV and film. Start by:
Searching IMDbPro for managers who represent actors with similar profiles
Looking up client rosters on agency websites
Reading interviews with managers to understand their philosophy
Asking other actors for referrals and feedback
Let’s say you’re a comedic actor aiming for sitcoms. You might research who represents actors on successful shows like Brooklyn Nine-Nine or Abbott Elementary. This research will help you create a realistic and strategic list of potential managers.
Step Three: Craft a Strong Query Letter
Your introduction email or letter is your first impression. Keep it short, professional, and clear. Include:
A brief introduction and career summary
Your goals as an actor
A link to your materials (reel, headshots, resume)
Why you’re reaching out to that particular manager
For instance:
Hi [Manager’s Name],
My name is Jordan Smith. I’m a Los Angeles-based actor with training from Stella Adler and credits in two indie features and a national commercial.
I admire the work you’ve done with [Client Name] and would love the chance to discuss potential representation. My materials are below.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, Jordan
Always personalize your letters. Managers can spot a copy-paste email a mile away.
Step Four: Submit to Showcase Opportunities
Managers regularly attend acting showcases, workshops, and talent festivals in search of new talent. This is one of the best ways to get on their radar without blindly emailing them.
Look into:
Industry showcases by acting schools or organizations like SAG-AFTRA or The Actors Studio
Workshops hosted by managers or management companies
Film festivals where short films and student work are screened
David, an actor in New York, got his manager after appearing in a showcase at The Barrow Group. A talent manager in the audience was impressed by his comedic timing and set up a meeting the next day.
Step Five: Network the Right Way
Building relationships is key in the entertainment industry. Many actors meet their managers through referrals, mutual friends, or organic interactions.
Ways to network:
Attend film festivals, screenings, and industry mixers
Join acting groups, writers’ workshops, or theater ensembles
Be active on social media, but in a professional way
Lena, a young actress in Atlanta, met her manager at a local film screening. She introduced herself, followed up with an email and reel, and eventually got signed after several conversations.
Step Six: Prepare for Meetings
When a manager shows interest, they’ll usually want a meeting—either virtual or in person. Be ready to:
Talk about your background, training, and goals
Answer questions about the types of roles you want
Ask smart questions about their experience, client load, and expectations
Good questions to ask a potential manager:
What kind of actors do you typically work with?
How do you collaborate with agents?
What is your communication style?
What’s your long-term vision for your clients?
This is your chance to interview them, too. A manager-actor relationship is a partnership, and both parties need to feel aligned.
Red Flags to Avoid
Not every manager is reputable. Be cautious of those who:
Ask for upfront fees (real managers earn a percentage—usually 10–15%)
Guarantee auditions (no one can promise this)
Pressure you to sign immediately without giving you time to think
Lack an established presence (no website, no clients, bad reviews)
If a “manager” promises you fame and roles in exchange for thousands of dollars, run. Real managers believe in your talent, not your wallet.
Should You Move to a Major Market First?
While not mandatory, relocating to an entertainment hub like Los Angeles, New York, or Atlanta increases your chances of finding a manager. That’s where most managers are based, and being in the same city makes collaboration easier.
That said, remote representation is becoming more common, especially after COVID-19 normalized Zoom meetings and self-tapes. If you’re based in a smaller market, focus on building your resume and reel, then reach out with a strong case for remote collaboration.
When Is the Right Time to Get a Manager?
There’s no perfect timeline, but here are signs you might be ready:
You’ve gained some credits but aren’t sure what’s next
You’re auditioning often but need career direction
You’re ready to go from local theater to national TV
You need help managing opportunities or building industry relationships
Getting a manager too soon—before you’re ready—can be frustrating for both of you. But waiting too long might slow your growth. Trust your instincts and career momentum.
Examples of Actors Who Found Their Managers Creatively
Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel) found early representation through a school showcase at NYU.
John Boyega was discovered by a manager after a performance in a local London theater.
Florence Pugh caught her manager’s eye through a demo tape submitted to a small indie film—one that never even got released!
Each path is unique, but the common thread is clear: preparation, visibility, and persistence.
Final Thoughts: Persistence Pays Off
Getting an acting manager is a milestone, but it’s not the end goal—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Be persistent, professional, and patient. You might get a “no” from one manager, but a “yes” from someone who truly believes in you.
Use each step of the process—crafting your materials, performing in showcases, networking—to grow as an actor and businessperson.
If you stay focused on your craft and keep showing up with professionalism and enthusiasm, the right manager will eventually take notice.
Acting Magazine Newsletters
Never miss out on the best from Acting Magazine.