Question:
How do I obtain representation?
Good Agents
The world being shark-infested, be careful whose contract you sign. Check with the Writers Guild of America, west for a list of agencies likely worth pursuing for representation—agencies that have signed the WGAw's Basic Agreement for agents.
A Definition
Managers work to build careers for aspirants to the entertainment industry. (Many people in entertainment have agents and managers.) Typically, a manager has fewer clients than an agent, which allows more time per client for interaction. Managers are not supposed to obtain work for writers because—unlike agents—they are not regulated. That said, many do obtain work for writers. Managers' fees vary, also due to their being unregulated.
Obtaining a Manager
If you have no representation—and no buzz due to winning an award, for example—obtaining a manager depends upon self-promotion. As you would if seeking an agent, query and seek referrals. Follow up conscientiously. Be professional!
Obtaining an Agent
Like any act related to advancing your screenwriting career, self-promotion is key to obtaining an agent. Research and contact agents that interest you for their submission guidelines. Follow those guidelines! Many agents only look at scripts on a referral basis. Seek people—other writers, anyone in the industry—who might refer you. Always follow up on your submissions. Above all, be constantly professional.
Work Obtained by Managers
Some managers obtain work for their clients (though obtaining work is technically agents' territory). As a result, some writers use managers instead of agents. Writers who do this may save money they would pay agents for obtaining work, depending upon the percentage their manager takes.
Typical and Atypical Agents
Stories float through the screenwriting community about writers signing with agents and then feeling overlooked—forgotten even—by their new representation. Agencies can carry client loads that make individual new writers feel small. The atypical small, driven agent (or agency) with just a few clients may be a better fit for unproven, but talented writers.
Screen Writing Frequently Asked Questions
How do I follow screenplay format?
How do I dream up a movie idea?
How do I obtain representation?
Do I have to move to Hollywood?
How do I make a story believable?
How do I add direction to dialog?
How do I get input on my writing?
How do I stay focused on my writing?
What is important to remember regarding creativity?
How do I get into screenwriting?
Do I need to rewrite after my first draft?
What is the upside of the writer´s life?
How do I keep the audience´s attention?
What will I write for Hollywood?
What shows may educate me about screenwriting?
How do I write shots and camera angles into my scripts?
What is my role as a screenwriter?
What would I offer Hollywood as a screenwriter?
How do I use writing to get into acting?
How do I keep the reader reading?
How do I indicate voiceover, or off screen dialog?
Where can I see movies or shows made from good scripts?
How do I give copyright notice?
How do I keep readers interested?
What festivals should I attend?
Where else can I learn more about screenwriting?
Where can I find exposure for my writing?
An agent has asked me to write a "Blurp/Logline" about my screenplay. What is a Blurp/Logline?
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