1. How to Impress an Agent at First Meeting

First of all, relax and remember that this is going to be just one meeting in a long line of agent interviews you'll have. If you've caught this agent's eye, it's likely you'll catch another, so don't place too much emphasis on this one meeting. Matt Maher, an actor who's worked in several Hollywood movies, and who's won an Obie here in New York, also had this to say:

"Be yourself, be confident, be relaxed. Remember the agent wants a good meeting as much as you do. They want you to be the Next Big Thing. It's a sort of show business optimism which is pervasive out there.

"One time I was at a party in LA and I met a casting director for huge movies. While we were talking, she looked at me and said, somewhat out of nowhere, 'You could be a huge star!' and I was like, 'Really?,' and she said, 'Maybe!' She then set me up on a number of agent meetings.

"Now, none of the meetings, all with great agencies, went particularly well. As I look back I realize that one thing working against me was that I didn't really feel like I belonged there. I thought I got there through some fluke and I was subconsiously apologising the whole time. I talked about mutual acquaintances when we should have been talking about me. I don't think the agents held that against me in any conscious way, but I didn't get them excited about the idea of having me as a client.

"One thing to do is ask them questions about what they do -- what kind of clients they have, how they see their role in a client's career, what the trends are in the business, stuff like that. It makes you seem like you're in charge of your own career, which is a GOOD thing. It also evens out the power ynamic a little. Remember, YOU are interviewing THEM. All the sellable, money-making qualities are yours. If you keep that in mind, without getting snooty about it -- but think, 'Here is a great opportunity for everyone in this room,' then the agent might pick up on that, and believe you."

Reed Kalisher also added these powerful tips: "First, relax! You are going to meet with an agent not a God. Be calm (breathe) and prepared. Treat your meeting like an audition and be ready with two contrasting monologues, a complete and 'honest' resume and a big smile. You may be asked to do your monologue(s) and talk about your past work. Lies will get you in trouble. No 'apologies' or explanations for anything.

"Be early! If you're on time, you're late. Be dressed nicely. No T-shirts. Remember, pilot season is coming and you may want to start making arrangements to be in LA for six weeks. Again, there is no 'trick' here, just be your pleasant self."

(from Actor Tips, copyright 2006 by Chad Gracia)