This is When You Need to Say No to an Agent
When actors and models receive a notice that we have gotten a booking, it is a very exciting. Booking jobs can be very hard and to hear that we got cast, helps make all of the hard work we have done worthwhile. That is why it is so hard to say no to an agent after getting a booking.
(I auditioned for the Netflix show House of Cards 15 times over two years before booking a recurring role.)
Aaron working with Ellen Burstyn on House of Cards
However, there are times, when it is essential that we say no and turn the job down.
This can be such a hard decision. Some actors and models are concerned that if they say no to a booking the agent will release them.
Or, that the agent will be angry them and not submit them as often as before.
Aaron Marcus in an angry modeling job
Both of those situations are possible. However, as much fun it is to work on a set or with a photographer, there is nothing more important then living your life by your beliefs and convictions.
If there is a product, company or project that you don’t want to promote, support or be a part of, then you need to say no.
If gambling is against your beliefs or you don’t want to promote selling cigarettes, then simply thank your agent for the opportunity, but explain to him/her why you need to turn it down.
This is your life. You never want to work on a project that you regret for the rest of your life.
It is so important that if your agent tells you about an audition or go-see, make sure you find out what the project is about. If it is something you don’t want to work on or support, just tell your agent. Never attend the casting, book the job, and then tell you agent that you are turning it down. That will make you and your agent look bad.
If your agent does not understand and is threatening to drop you as a client, then it might be time to look for a different agent.
Watch This Video: Secrets to Finding an Agent and Get Them to Work for You
All great agents understand that we all have certain beliefs and need to make good decisions for ourselves. The agent might try and convince you to do the job, and that is fine. For instance, if you don’t want to shoot a cigarette ad, your agent could suggest that you do the ad and use your earnings to make a donation to the Cancer Society. But, in the end, it is your decision.
Just remember, this is your life and your decision.
You can learn more ways to get acting and modeling jobs on your own by watching this video blog.
https://howtoactandmodel.com/taking-control-career-market-yourself/
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About the Author: Aaron Marcus
Aaron Marcus has been a full-time actor and commercial model for over 36 years.
His new book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model is an Amazon Best Seller.
Aaron has given his seminar: "Book the Job" over 800 times spanning 3 continents.
He also offers online workshops.
Aaron saves 5 days each month to give private on-line coaching sessions.
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