Why In The World Would You Want A Screenwriting Agent?

Online, March 1, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Hey, everyone!

Those that are new to the world of screenwriting probably wish they had an agent. Preferably, they wish they had a talented and driven agent that would help promote their screenwriting wares to all the top producers and directors in Hollywood. While such notions are helpful, there needs to be a little realistic understanding here. Prior to developing any dreams of grandeur, potential writers need to understand a few basic facts about getting a screenwriting agent.

While it would be a dream come true to sign on with CAA, ICM, or William Morris, the fact remains that the major agencies are not always open to new writers. This is not to say that a screenwriting agent at such major firms has never worked with new talent. They most certainly have. However, the odds are much better if you were to seek out an agent from a smaller firm. Such firms would be more open to working with new writers which means they would take incoming queries with the utmost seriousness. And is that not what you would prefer from a screenwriting agent in the first place?

Regardless of which screenwriting agent you are inquiring with, there are certain precautionary steps to take to make sure you are not, for lack of a better phrase, ripped off. One of the best ways to present such a problem from occurring would be to examine the track record of the screenwriting agent and the firm he/she is associated with. Who else does the agent represent? Have they successfully sold a number of screenplays? How long has the agent been in the industry?

Now, if you are completely new to the world of screenwriting, the odds are likely that most of the agents interested in you may be junior agents that have just started out on their career. That is fine if the rep of the agency is above reproach. Quality agencies would not likely employ a beginner screenwriting agent that lacked insight, talent, potential, and, of course, salesmanship.

There are certain serious red flags a potential needs to be aware of when determining the value of a screenwriting agent. Any agent that seeks to charge you an upfront fee for representation should be completely avoided. This would be a sure sign of a scam!

And the average fee for an agent's service is 10%. Those that try to sign you to 15% or more are often not the best agents in the world to work with. Sure, there are exceptions to this rule but the exceptions are few.

On the other side of the coin, there are certain proper approaches a screenwriter needs to take towards agents to make the relationship fruitful. The most common mistake writers make is that they assume an agent is a miracle worker that can help them land a screenwriting job or sell a spec with little or no trouble. Have realistic expectations with an agent and don't be a pest. In short, treat a screenwriting agent professionally and you will see a much better relationship derive as a result.

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Fade Out,

Brandon
www.HollywoodScreenwritingSecrets.com

p.s. If you don't think your Screenplay Software matters, read my post from yesterday here.