Talent Agency FAQs

What kind of demos do you accept?

We accept digital links. Please make sure that you’ve watched your demo before sending it to us. Nothing is more frustrating (or unprofessional) than a link that has no audio or doesn't work.

What do you look for when considering a client?

We’ve been doing this for a long time and have hired hundreds of talent. We look for the “WOW” factor or the POTENTIAL for “WOW!”

There are thousands of people who want to be on TV. We both want to be successful.  Remember this is a subjective business. A thick skin is needed. If we say “no”, someone else may say “superstar.”  Persistence.

What should be on my demo?

That totally depends on what job you’re applying for.

Generally speaking, on-air talent should have a brief montage of your absolute best work, followed by a couple of minutes of continuous anchor segments and then a couple of examples of your best reporting. Your demo should be no longer than 15 minutes. Producers should include entire shows, edited for commercials, and include a written self-critique and background about the show, resources, etc.

Other talent agencies make my demo, why don’t you?

We’re not in the editing business. You work in a multi-million dollar facility that has the most expensive and hopefully the latest video/audio equipment available.

We will work closely with you to choose and agree upon the best content for your demo.

I’ve heard that talent agents send huge composite reels, do you?

We will NEVER send a composite tape of multiple clients.

We market you as an individual, matching your skills with the company’s needs. Sometimes clients will be interested in the same jobs but ultimately it’s the choice of the station on who best fits what they’re looking for.

Your corporate office is Phoenix, AZ Will that hurt my chances of getting hired?

Absolutely not!

We’re on the phone constantly with managers across the country, with stations/networks in LA, Chicago, NY, DC, Atlanta, Orlando, etc. It’s not “where” you are located; it’s the quality of your talent, the specific need of the company, and the reputation of your agency.

In order to make it into the top markets, you have to have one of the big names. Is that true?

We can tell you from experience that while a reputable agent can get a ND or recruiter to LOOK at your demo, only YOUR talent will make them want to hire you. No company is going to hire someone just because “Mr. Bigshot Agent X” called and said so.  And keep in mind, agents at those big agencies are competing against each other for the job you want.

I hear some talent agencies charge upfront or retainer fees; do you?

I hear that talent agents charge 10% every year. What are your commission rates?

What if I just want a negotiation only deal?

Can you guarantee me a job or more money?

How long will it take to get a new job?

Do you look at every demo?

Yes. We believe that everyone deserves an opportunity to have their work viewed and their skills evaluated. We’re a very selective agency so we cannot possibly offer representation to everyone.  Those that are chosen can feel confident that we see great potential and promise in your work.

Do I have to sign a contract and is it exclusive?

I sent tapes out myself. What if I get a call from a news director on my own?

What if I want to work in programming or become a host?

What if I’m just starting out with no experience? Do I need an Agent?

While it’s true that entry-level salaries are pitiful, do you know what the going rate is? What if the news director says you MUST sign three years or even five years with no outs? What protection do you have in your contract? What happens if you’re laid off or fired? What are the other people making in similar positions in the market? What protection do you have if a much larger station offers you triple your salary in two years? Who’s going to give you feedback on your story construction? Wardrobe? Writing? Delivery? What if they hired me as a reporter and now want me to anchor but don’t want to pay more money because I’m already “under contract?” If you feel comfortable sitting in the ND or GMs office arguing these points, then you probably don’t need us. Rest assured, we do offer commission structures for entry-level positions.

Are you a lawyer?

No, but we have negotiated hundreds of contracts. Unless you’re hiring a very specialized attorney in entertainment/broadcast law, you will get a call from your dad’s friend who’s an attorney telling you how “crazy you are” to sign either the contract with the station you showed them or your representation agreement. They simply don’t understand the industry. You wouldn’t go to a podiatrist for new glasses or a plumber to wire your house. Rest assured, we do have media savvy General Counsel should the need arise for legal opinions.

What if I don’t want to take a job?