VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

Chris Ratliff · Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:08 pm Post subject: Agy Rep

Hey folks! I could really use some advice on this. I'm somewhat new here, you may have read a few of my posts. I've recently been offered a agency contract. I'm pretty stoked about it 'cause it's the first one for me. But I've got a few reservations. It's a well known agency in the midwest. I know of, at least one person on the board here - and a big one that I admire-, that is represented by this agency.
Well, the thing is, there is an exclusivity clause in the contract. Within 200 miles of their 3 markets.
Well (x2), I've also just been asked to voice a national radio and TV campaign through a production house contact.
Hmmm... Do I sign the contract and give up this gig and the hopes of doing other national gigs, or sign with the hopes (*that's a big one... hopes!*) of getting bigger and better gigs through an agent?
Any advice from yous guys? 'Preciate it!
Chris
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todd ellis · Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:24 pm Post subject:

let me throw this out there - is it possible to take the bird in the hand - the spot ya got, then say to the agency, "i like your deal, but i already have a contract in motion that i would like to grandfather in" or words to that effect. that doesn't seem too outrageous to me.
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bobsouer · Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:28 pm Post subject:

Chris,

Todd's suggestion is mine as well.
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Chris Ratliff · Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:33 pm Post subject:

I could do that, Todd. But what say lightning strikes twice... or thrice, shall the vo gods smile upon me, and I get another shot at nationals? That contract will put the kibash on those, right? I'm new to reps, and I don't wanna step into something that'll smudge the carpet, ya know? As bad as I want representation, I don't wanna jump and get pulled back at the same time.
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"I have nothing more to say at this time. That is all"

Deirdre · Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:53 pm Post subject:

Another option is to let your Agent handle the billing for your national spot.
You lose a bit off the top but you end up with one hella happy agent.
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CarynClark · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 6:49 am Post subject:

I agree with Todd. Try to get this one grandfathered in... and when the next one comes along, have them work through your agent.
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Caryn Clark... The Hip Chick Voice!

"A positive mental attitude and having faith in your ability is quite different from being irresponsible and downright stupid." - Dave

CarynClark · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 6:51 am Post subject:

PS: Also, while you are very excited to sign with this agent, etc. ask around (either to talent you know that are signed with them, or ask the agency themselves) the average number of auditions they send per week, and ask the talent (again, if you are comfy and somewhat know them) what they've booked through this agent.

Agents, while I love mine and most of them work hard and are nice to work with, are not the golden ticket.
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Caryn Clark... The Hip Chick Voice!

"A positive mental attitude and having faith in your ability is quite different from being irresponsible and downright stupid." - Dave

Bruce · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 7:17 am Post subject:

I'm not understanding the problem here. When an agent signs you to an exclusive representation covering 3 markets, that means just those three markets or any national/regional work that they get you. Any national work you get from another source is not under their control, nor is work in any other city. Those are all "other" markets.

B
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CarynClark · Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 8:16 am Post subject:

This is what I get for responding before intaking a caffeinated beverage. Bruce has a point.
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Caryn Clark... The Hip Chick Voice!

"A positive mental attitude and having faith in your ability is quite different from being irresponsible and downright stupid." - Dave

Eddie Eagle · M&M Joined: 23 Apr 2008 Posts: 2393

Bruce hit the bullseye!