How to Manage Your Agent : A Writer’s Guide to Hollywood Representation

How To Manage Your Agent takes writers and producers deep into today''s world of literary representation, illuminating not only how literary reps do what they do, but how writers can use these same techniques to attract good representation, communicate efficiently, and motivate their handlers to work as hard as possible. You will learn the subtle (and not-so subtle) tools, tricks, and techniques agents use to build hype, elicit information, leverage favors, and influence buyers in the world of twenty-first century entertainment. You''ll also see the mechanics of their business models and practices and how these affect you, your projects, and your agent/client communication. These are pieces of information thousands of writers, both aspiring and professional, are desperate to know—and should know—in order to maximize their representation and careers.

Have you written the script for the next box office blockbuster or hit TV show and just need the right agent to sell it? Not sure whether to accept an if-come deal or a script commitment? Debating which manager is the right choice to steer your career? Well, worry no more...

How to Manage Your Agent is a fun, friendly guide to the world of literary representation. Enter the inner sanctums of Hollywood’s power-brokers and learn how they influence what pitches get bought, what projects get sold, and which writers get hired.

Find tips from top-level executives, agents, managers, producers, and writers to help you maximize your own representation and kick your career into overdrive! You’ll learn:

•    How agents prioritize their client list... and ways to guarantee you’re at the top

•　When to approach new representation... and what you need to capture their interest

•    Hollywood’s secret buying schedule... and how to ensure you’re on it

•   The truth about packaging... where it helps and when it hurts

•   Which agents are best for you... and where to find them

•   Advice on acing your first agent meeting... and why so many writers blow it

•   Managers’ tricks for creating buzz... and when to use them yourself

•   How to fire your agent... without killing your career

•  When you don’t need representation... and how to succeed without it

The value of good representation is undeniable—especially in a world where agents and managers control which projects (and careers) live or die. How to Manage Your Agent puts you on the inside track to get your work the attention it deserves!