Monster Talent Management

Monster Talent Management

Monster Talent Management

Whether you're new to acting or a veteran, learning how to communicate with your manager can make a big difference in your working relationship and in achieving your creative goals. First, however, it's important to understand the role of a talent manager, and your role as an actor.

Managing You

Managers come from various backgrounds. Often, a manager will have worked in casting, or as an agent. Some have led lives as attorneys, even as former actors. When choosing a manager, ask about their current clients, which agents they work with and the relationships they have with casting directors. A manager is often the person who glues everything and everyone together, so it's important that this person be a kind of ambassador.

It's also important to understand the difference between a manager and an agent. "Agents are supposed to smile and dial," quips Los Angeles manager Ryan Glasgow. "Agents get auditions and do deals. Managers are supposed to make sure that what the agents are selling is competitive and ready for market. Managers are what happens before, during, and after the auditions and bookings." This distinction is important, since a manager is in the business of developing talent.