We can save you time and postage if we do not respond to a particular topic, or have a conflict with something we already represent. Let's assume that an agent wishes to represent you. In this column, we'll explore some of the factors that help to set up a good client-agent relationship. In an initial meeting or phone call, both you and the agent should communicate your expectations about your relationship. In our experience, the most rewarding client-agent associations are collaborations that have good communications on both sides.
Agents are professionals who work with their clients.
Although we do not accept offers or agree to terms without our clients' instructions, we should not be expected to blindly follow our clients' orders either, whether in terms of submissions or in terms of taking actions that are unethical, improper or against WGA working rules. We welcome our clients' ideas about submissions, provided that you're willing to listen to the agent's reasoning as to why a particular submission or approach may not be wise. On the other hand, you should expect to be updated on a reasonable basis. Discuss how you both expect to deal with updates so that you'll both be satisfied. Talk about how you'll work with the agent to develop new ideas, too.