To audition for tv roles, do i need an agent to represent me?

Question

Or can i send in my resume without having an agent and then get one?

Answer 1

I work in the industry in Los Angeles and no, for TV you don't need an agent necessarily - but it certainly helps.  You do need to be in a union though, either AFTRA or SAG.  

This can be done one of two ways, you join by paying all the fees regardless of your experience and then are subject to the dues owed whether you work or not, or you get lucky and get a taft hartley - which is you get pulled into the union by a production that finds your look/type/style/ability/skill unique and can use only you to fill the role.

It's a bit easier to get an agent than a taft hartley.  Best thing is to go for an agent first.  Get out there and work for free where you can to gain experience and footage for a reel.  MAKE CONNECTIONS as you never know where your next gig may come from.

To get an agent first find the ones that are looking for new talent - moat always are - and a book with the up to date list is available at Samuel French Bookstore (there are 2 in LA and I think 2 in NY as well),  then target about 10 to 15 or however many you want and usbmit submit submit - I did so twice a week for 6 weeks.  I met with several agents and signed to well, not the best one, but I got one - persistence pays off.

as for auditions in general there are a few ways to find them and get into them:

1 casting directors - pay attention to who is casting what (lists in variety and hollywood reporter help) also find out who is working on the shows you want to be on.

2 backstage west lists dozens of opportunities

3 craigs list can often list reality show opportunities and gameshows - ways to get on TV and possibly win money...

Good luck, and as they say in theater, "break a leg"