Difference between an agent, a manager and a casting platform

Three common ways of finding work are often confused, leading beginners to seek an agent when they actually need a platform, or to expect a platform to provide the strategic guidance of a manager. Let's break down the differences.

Agent

What they do: They find projects, submit you for roles, negotiate your rates and terms, review contracts, and ensure you get paid.

How they earn: A percentage of your fee. This is key: the agent is financially incentivized to keep you working and to secure the highest possible pay for you.

When you need one: When you have something "sellable"—a solid filmography, recognition, a clear "type," and a steady stream of offers that you can no longer manage on your own. At the start of a career, agencies rarely take on unknown talent; this is a matter of business economics, not a judgment of your talent.

What they don't do: They do not guarantee work, they do not teach you the craft, and they generally do not manage your social media presence.

Manager

What they do: They handle your career in a broad sense—long-term strategy, public image, project selection, and sometimes diversified income streams. They focus on the "big picture" and typically work with a smaller number of clients.

How they earn: Also a percentage, usually higher than an agent's, or a flat monthly fee plus a percentage.

When you need one: When your career is already established and you face decisions more complex than simply "should I take this role or not." Beginners almost never need a manager.

In practice, these boundaries are often blurred: in many agencies, one person performs both functions.

Casting Platform

What it does: It connects you directly with projects. Your profile appears in search results, and you can see open calls and apply yourself.

How it earns: Usually through subscriptions, posting fees for employers, or premium profile features.

When you need it: Always. A platform is not an alternative to an agent, but basic infrastructure. Even actors with representation keep their profiles active in databases because casting directors often search by specific parameters rather than just browsing agency rosters.

What it doesn't do: It does not negotiate, review contracts, or protect your interests. All of that remains your responsibility.

Comparison by Task

• Finding a project: Platform — you do it yourself; Agent — does it for you; Manager — does it selectively and strategically.
• Negotiating payment: Platform — not applicable; Agent — this is their primary job.
• Reviewing contracts: Platform — not applicable; Agent — yes, as it is in their interest as well.
• Collecting overdue payments: Platform — not applicable; Agent — yes.
• Long-term strategy: Manager.
• Cost: Platforms are the most affordable; managers are typically the most expensive.

How to Find an Agent

• Materials first. It is pointless to reach out without professional headshots, a showreel (or video introduction), and at least a brief resume/credits list.
• Targeted, not mass-mailed. Research who the agency represents and write specifically about why you are a good fit for their roster.
• Keep it brief. A five-line email, a link to your profile and showreel, and your resume as an attachment.
• Use referrals. Recommendations work significantly better than cold emails.
• Ask colleagues about their experience with a specific agency—reputation in the industry is more important than the quality of their website.

Agency Contracts: What to Look For

Note: Rates, contract forms, and tax rules differ by market. Always verify local regulations.

• The Percentage and the base it is calculated from—whether it is taken from the gross amount before taxes or the net amount after.
• Exclusivity. Under an exclusive contract, all projects must go through the agency, including those you find on your own.
• Contract term and termination process. A multi-year contract without an exit clause is a serious commitment.
• Territory and segments. Some agencies may represent you only for commercials or only for film/TV.
• Post-termination projects—whether there is a "tail" period where the agency continues to receive a percentage for projects initiated during the contract.
• Agency obligations. It is a good sign if their responsibilities are clearly listed, not just yours.

Red Flags

• Fees for signing a contract or "joining the database."
• Mandatory paid photoshoots with a specific photographer.
• Mandatory paid courses as a condition for representation.
• Guarantees of roles—these do not exist.
• Pressure to sign immediately.
• A lack of current clients you can contact for a reference.

How to Work Without an Agent

Most beginners manage on their own, and this is a viable strategy. Here is what you need to do yourself:

1. Keep your profiles on platforms complete and up to date.
2. Check for new casting calls daily and apply quickly.
3. Maintain a list of casting directors you have worked with and send short, professional reminders of your availability every few months.
4. Review contracts independently and do not hesitate to ask questions about the terms.
5. Calculate your own market rate and be able to state it confidently.

In Short

• A platform is infrastructure; it is necessary for everyone.
• An agent sells your talent for a percentage and is needed once you have a proven track record.
• A manager handles strategy and is generally not needed by beginners.
• An agent does not replace a database profile: casting directors still search by parameters.
• In a contract, check the percentage, exclusivity, term, and exit conditions.
• Any request to pay upfront for representation is a reason to decline.

Find open calls in the castings section.