How To Get An Agent

For many writers, landing agent representation is an important milestone in their career. Sometimes it’s a bit of a ‘catch 22’. How can I get an agent, if I haven’t had a credit? But then how can I get my first writing credit if I haven’t got an agent?

I will not sugar coat it! It’s hard, because getting an agent isn’t as simple as cold emailing a few names and waiting for the offers to roll in. It takes good timing and prep work. So here are a few tips on how to get a screenwriting agent and ensure that they are a great fit for you.

So what does an agent actually do?

Before you start your search, it’s important to understand what a agent can do for you. They are not only your advocate, but they also pitch your scripts to producers and execs. I’ve worked with so many agents in the past, both on shows when dealing with contracts and payments for my writers. And also approaching them as a development executive to find the right writer for my project. A good agent will negotiate your contracts. They can also help to guide your career trajectory and open doors to new opportunities and connections that you may not have access to. If you look on most production company websites, you’ll see the dreaded “we do not accept unsolicited scripts” on the contact page. This is not to gatekeep, this is actually for both your legal protection as a writer and the production companies too. But getting agent representation is just one small part of it. You still need to write amazing scripts, build relationships with creatives, and explore opportunities when they do arise.

So when Is the Right Time to Get an Agent?

Timing really is everything! So approaching an agent too soon can damage your chances down the line. You need to feel ready, because it’s a cold world out there! Here’s a few questions to give you a steer if you are thinking about getting one.

·      Do you have at least one script polished to industry standard?

·      Do you have a second project ready to go if an agent asks, “What else do you have?”

·      Have you built a portfolio that showcases your range and your ‘writers voice’?

·     Have you made a short film, or produced a theatre production or a web series? Or maybe you’ve been shortlisted or won a screenwriting competition, or someone is interested in developing your script?

If the answer is ‘not yet’ then that’s absolutely fine. Sometimes agents and producers need a proof of concept before signing a deal. So take the time to build up your portfolio, read loads and practise honing your craft and of course continue to network.

So now you’ve built up your portfolio, what do you send?

Agents (and their assistants) are often swamped with submissions, so you only have a small window to impress them. So what you need is a really strong enquiry letter. Keep your email concise. It’s not a simple ‘copy and paste’ exercise, the email needs to be personalised to that agent and written in a professional tone. You should address the agent by name and reference why you are contacting them. It could be that you admire a client that they represent, or you met them at a festival, or a mutual contact recommended them to you. Try to keep your email under 300 words and it should include a brief personal introduction, a logline of your script, any noteworthy accolades you’ve achieved such as any awards, work or festival screenings. And then end with a polite request to read your script.

You’ll also need a professional writer CV. This should include a list of your completed screenplays, any produced credits or festival awards and then any relevant training and industry experience. Maybe you’ve been part of a script development lab, or won a fellowship, or been on a mentoring scheme. These things show your commitment to the industry. Remember to leave off any job experiences that does not relate to the film and TV industry.

Tip: You probably should not attach your script with your CV unless they ask for it.

And when they do, make sure your script is a market ready PDF, professionally formatted using software like Final Draft, Celtx or WriterDuet. Remember to proofread for grammar and spelling mistakes. It’s important that your script has a great structure, clear character arcs and in your authentic voice. If in doubt, contact a script editor to help you get it ready.

Who do you approach?

Now that’s totally up to you. It’s like dating. It’s not just about who will take you on, it’s about who aligns with your goals and creative sensibility. Whether it’s a large literacy agency with real ‘sway’ or a smaller boutique agency that will give you a more ‘hands on’ approach. You could also contact junior agents and assistants looking to build their client lists, as they are always on the lookout for talent too. It's important to research and target agents who represent writers you love or whose work feels similar to yours. Maybe they specialise in your genre. There are a few resources to help guide you like agency websites, industry newsletters like Televisual, Broadcast, Deadline or Screen International, and track writers’ names in the credits of the shows that you love. You could also follow agents on LinkedIn or on social media to get a sense of their interests.

To increase your chances of meeting agents, try to attend film festivals, pitch forums, free virtual and in-person events. You can also enter script competitions connected to the BBC Writersroom, Channel 4, BAFTA Rocliffe and other reputable schemes. Many writers secure agents through personal introductions too by other writers. Just because one agent expresses interest doesn’t mean you have to sign right away. Take a few meetings with other agents to see if you have chemistry and ask questions about how you’ll communicate, will they give notes, what are their expectations of you, does their working style complement yours etc.

Remember, an agent isn’t a fairy godparent! They won’t create opportunities from nothing, but they can amplify your career, so it’s up to you write compelling scripts for when that big moment comes.

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