How to Get Represented By An Agency

It is many a young stylist's dream to do editorial work or style hair for celebrities. The only catch? You must first be involved with an agency to get any of these big jobs. For some, the idea of getting representation from an agency can seem daunting, but really, all it takes is persistence, time and dedication....and sometime you have to be a little annoying. 

The first steps to getting representation is to build a portfolio or "book" that you can show to an agency. This portfolio will give the agency an opportunity to see what you can do and what kind of jobs you've done in the past. If you only have test shoots in your portfolio, that's totally fine! It shows that you're dedicated to building your book on your own and that you're ready and willing to work. 

Once you have a portfolio created you can start contacting agencies to get on their assistant list. This is the best way to get representation in the future. If you can build a relationship assisting stylists that are already represented, there will come a time when they'll start sending you on your own jobs.

Contact agencies and ask what their process is for reviewing portfolios. Sometimes they'll have open-call days where you can come in in person to show your work, or some agencies will just ask you to email it to them directly.

Once you send out your resume or show up in person, be persistent! This is where being annoying or following up can come in handy. Agencies are looking for people who are eager and willing to work. If you set yourself apart from the pack by following up and truly showing your interest, this can go a very long way. 

There were several jobs in the past that I literally had to show up and demand they be given to me.....worked every time. 

Come Prepared

Once you do start assisting you'll be expected to show up to shoots ready and willing to work. You'll need to have a fully stocked kit that includes tools, products and accessories. Your job is to have anything the stylist might have left behind. Most of the time when I was assisting I never actually touched my tools, but I was always required to have them. 

When assisting there will be a lot of standing around, but you should never appear like you "checked out". Even if it doesn't seem like the stylist needs your help, you should always stay close by to them and be alert and aware of anything they might need. 

Ask the stylist you're assisting at the beginning of the day what they expect from you as an assistant. You won't sound stupid asking this question, in fact, the stylist will be impressed that you want to do the best job to cater to their individual needs. This will give you a great insight into how they work. 

Stay Consistent

Assisting is the surefire way to get represented by an agency. It will take time, dedication and it won't always be a walk in the park, but we all have to start somewhere!