Here at Stage 32, we’re always listening for the most common questions from you to help you work towards your goals. When it comes to representation, there are a few questions that come up. What’s the difference between agents and managers? Do you need a lawyer? Should you get an agent, manager, or lawyer first?

But the most popular question we see over and over in the lounges, in the Writers’ Room, and on social media is how do I get representation as a writer?

The answer actually has two parts: What do reps want to see from a writer to sign them? And how do I get my stuff in front of a rep?

Since we have access to countless reps, we thought we’d round up some of the best responses from current industry managers, creating a checklist that gives you a clear path to your goals. And because most agents sign clients after they already have a manager, we figured we’d focus in on how to get a literary manager.

These aren’t the only ways to get repped by a manager (and not all writers need reps to work), but they’re a great jumping-off point from professional managers who know what they’re looking for and want in a literary client.

Queries and Pitch Fests

When getting your work in front of a manager, one of the most well-known options is the query letter. This letter tells a potential rep who you are, any of your accolades, and about your work.

Andrew Wilson (Wonder Street Entertainment; previously Zero Gravity Management) says, “I still see queries and things along those lines … and I’ll still read someone who’s unproven as a writer. There’s always that possibility that there’s that diamond in the rough out there.”

If you’re sending out query letters, research and verify that the potential reps (or producers) take query letters. Many companies have rules against taking unsolicited scripts.

Another option is to attend a pitch fest. Spencer Robinson (ArtWork Entertainment and Stage 32 Education) says he attends many pitch fests through Stage 32 and other places. This is a great workaround if you want to speak with a company that doesn’t take unsolicited scripts but does attend pitch events.

If you are looking to send queries or pitch your project, be sure to vet your pitch, so it’s ready for representation and includes all the needed information.

Referrals

The most common way that writers find reps is through referrals. Both Andrew and Spencer cited referrals as the most common way they find new literary clients.

“There are a number of attorneys, producers, and agents that I have long-standing relationships with that will reach out to me from time to time and say, ‘look, I’ve got somebody who’s absolutely great, and you should check this writer out,’” says Andrew.

Your Checklist

But before you hit the ground running and look for representation, you need to get your portfolio in order.

Spencer says, “We like to read two pieces of material. That can be a movie and a pilot, that can be two pilots, that can be two movies, whatever it is… just two pieces of material. The idea is that we don’t want to read one thing, then you’d never be able to do that again.”

Jonathan Hersh (Housefire Management) seconds Spencer’s “two scripts” recommendation. He says, “I always like to read two scripts from any potential client because if you read one that’s great, you want to make sure it’s not a fluke and they can really back it up and do it again. … If they have more [scripts], great. But I’m usually wary of someone who sends six scripts at once.”

In addition to your scripts, Devon Byers (Heroes and Villains; First Friday Entertainment) wants you to know your goals and the central throughline of your writing. “A writer’s voice is huge for us,” says Devon. “That ineffable quality that you not only have a great story and dialogue but also just something there where you can get a sense of the authorship behind the script, which is amazing. … It’s also, what is your voice? And what is your plan for your career? What are your goals? What are your ideas?”

Andrew says what he’s “looking for in a writer is someone who’s a hustler and go-getter … [That] means you’re judicious about the type of material you’re writing. … If it’s someone who’s gone and optioned a piece of property or found a piece of underlying material… that’s something I really look for because that’s a writer who is proactive on their own behalf and can bring something to the table.”

And Andrew’s advice brings things back to how many reps find their clients through referrals. Trying to find your way in an industry where you don’t know anyone can seem daunting. But that’s what’s great about places like Stage 32, which can help you improve your craft, connect you with execs, and build your contacts to ultimately get you those referrals. So…

• Two scripts
• A unique writing voice
• Know your long-term goals
• Work your hustle

You have your mission. Where are you in completing your checklist? Or are you moving forward and leaving the hunt for reps behind? Let us know in the comments below.

For more information on finding your voice and getting repped, be sure to check out the Writers' Room where there are hundreds of interviews, pitch sessions, resources, and more to help you succeed in your writing career.

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