How to Get an Acting Manager with No Experience?
A Step-by-Step Guide for New Actors Looking to Land Representation Without Prior Credits
(By Javier Guerra)
Is It Even Possible to Get a Manager Without Experience?
Yes—it is absolutely possible to get an acting manager even if you don’t have prior acting experience. While most managers prefer to sign talent with some professional work under their belt, many are open to working with undiscovered or developing artists if they see strong potential.
Think of it like scouting in sports: managers are often looking for the next star. If you can present yourself as passionate, marketable, and committed, you stand a real chance.
For example, actor Jacob Batalon (best known as Ned in Spider-Man: Homecoming) got noticed after showing natural talent during a showcase. He didn’t come from a long résumé of gigs but instead demonstrated charisma and potential.
Step 1: Build a Strong Actor’s Package
Even with no experience, you can create a compelling package that includes:
Headshots: Professionally taken and industry-standard.
Resume: It can include acting classes, workshops, and special skills.
Reel or Monologue Video: Even one well-recorded monologue can go a long way.
Example: Say you’ve never acted professionally, but you’ve taken classes and performed in school plays. Your resume could include:
Acting for Camera, ABC Studios Workshop
Monologue Training, Self-Tape Studio
Special Skills: Stage combat, accents (British, Southern), fluent Spanish
A manager might see your preparedness and drive—and take a chance.
Step 2: Get Into Acting Classes
One of the best ways to get on a manager’s radar is through acting schools and training programs. Managers often attend showcases hosted by reputable schools or receive referrals from instructors they trust.
If you live in Los Angeles, New York, or Atlanta, consider studios like:
The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute
Margie Haber Studio
Anthony Meindl’s Actor Workshop
These places don’t just teach—they network.
Real-world example: Sydney Sweeney (Euphoria, The White Lotus) trained consistently in her early teens. Through connections from her acting coach, she got introduced to representation, despite lacking credits at the time.
Step 3: Use Casting Websites Strategically
Websites like Backstage, Actors Access, and Casting Networks allow you to submit to projects—even if you’re unrepresented. This helps you:
Gain on-set experience
Build your reel
Show managers you’re proactive
Include this work on your resume and send it to managers once you’ve compiled a few clips.
Tip: Even short films and student projects count. A well-acted scene in a student film can get more attention than listing a dozen background roles.
Step 4: Get Good Headshots—They Matter More Than You Think
Your headshot is your first impression. Even with no experience, if your photo looks professional and industry-ready, a manager may stop scrolling and click your email.
Invest in a real photographer who understands acting headshots. You should have:
A commercial look (smile, bright)
A theatrical look (serious, expressive)
Natural lighting and neutral backgrounds
Example: New York-based actor Maya Torres had zero credits, but her agent at CESD said her “headshot popped”—clean lighting, expressive eyes, and a unique look. She was signed off a cold submission.
Step 5: Submit to Managers the Right Way
Now that you have a package, it’s time to reach out to managers directly. Here’s how:
1. Research managers: Look at IMDbPro, social media, and acting forums to find those who work with emerging actors.
2. Send a short, personalized email, like:
Hi [Manager Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a new actor based in [City]. I’ve recently completed training at [Studio], and I’m looking for management to help guide the next steps of my career.
I’ve attached my headshot and resume, and here’s a link to my reel: [link].
I admire the work you’ve done with [Client Name] and would love to be considered for your roster.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best,
[Your Name]
3. Follow up once, 2–3 weeks later, unless instructed otherwise.
Step 6: Attend Industry Events and Networking Opportunities
You don’t need experience to be present where managers hang out. Attend:
Acting showcases
Film festivals
Open talent panels
Manager meet-and-greets (often hosted at acting schools)
Introduce yourself respectfully and ask for permission to follow up. Don’t pitch your entire résumé—just make a positive impression.
Example: Actor Brandon Chase met his future manager at a film networking night in Burbank. They spoke briefly, he followed up via email, and two months later, he had his first representation contract.
Step 7: Use Social Media to Your Advantage
Casting professionals and managers are constantly browsing platforms like:
TikTok
YouTube
Use your account to:
Post self-tapes and monologues
Share training clips
Showcase your personality
If a manager sees consistency, charisma, and growth, they may reach out—even if you haven’t booked anything yet.
Example: Ashley Park (Emily in Paris) posted dance and acting clips for years. One viral moment helped her land a meeting with a rep who eventually became her full-time manager.
Step 8: Be Honest—but Show Drive
You don’t have to hide the fact that you’re new. Just frame your lack of experience as a strength. Emphasize:
Willingness to train
Discipline
Unique life experiences
Versatility and adaptability
Sample line for a manager email:
“While I’m just beginning my professional journey, I’ve committed to studying with top coaches, self-taping weekly, and building a reel from indie film projects. I’m hungry to learn and grow.”
Passion stands out—especially when it’s backed by action.
Step 9: Watch Out for Scams
Some so-called “managers” prey on new actors by:
Charging high upfront fees
Offering vague “development packages”
Guaranteeing fame
Legitimate managers:
Work on commission (usually 15%)
Don’t demand payment upfront
Focus on career development, not overnight stardom
Red flag example: A “manager” offers to sign you only if you pay $600 for headshots and classes at their studio. That’s likely a scam.
Do your research. Ask other actors. Trust your instincts.
Step 10: Be Patient and Keep Training
Landing a manager without experience is possible—but not always immediate. In the meantime:
Keep training
Update your materials
Film new scenes
Submit to indie and student films
Keep networking
Think of it as building a foundation. The stronger it is, the easier it will be for a manager to market you when the time comes.
Example: Actor Thomas Barbusca (The Mick) spent years auditioning and training before he got a manager. His breakthrough came after sending an updated reel to a manager he’d contacted a year earlier.
Final Thoughts: Your Career Starts Before Your First Job
You don’t need a résumé full of roles to get a manager—you need preparation, professionalism, and persistence.
Your job now is to:
Train like a pro
Market yourself smartly
Reach out with confidence
Grow your materials
Stay open and focused
Managers are looking for the next great discovery—not just the next resume. If you can show them potential, they might just give you that first big opportunity.
Keep putting yourself out there. You’re building momentum every single day.
Acting Magazine Newsletters
Never miss out on the best from Acting Magazine.