How to write to an agent

I'd start, if you're writing them a letter, by making sure you format it correctly, e.g. your name and address in the top right hand corner, then their name and address under this left aligned, and then the date under this, again right aligned:

Your Name
Your Address
Agent's Name
Agent's Address
Date

Dear …


Secondly, do your research. Never write "Dear Sir/Madam", always find out who you're writing to. And in the letter address them by their full name, not just their first name.

In the main body of the letter, the first paragraph should set out why you're writing to this agency, e.g. "I'm writing to you because I'm interested in representation with/being represented by...etc", then explain why you feel you would be well suited to being represented by this agency, and also what you can bring to them. Why will you be a strong asset to them? The easy option is to have a standard answer to these questions, but I think it's really important to tailor your letter to each agency. This is more time consuming, but will show you've made the effort to research what kind of work the agency specialises in, and why you would well work for them and vice versa (remember, they have to work for you too).

If this particular agent has seen you in something before then mention that here in the first paragraph too, for example "I recently appeared in ..., which you attended on ... In this I played ..." You can even start your letter with this.

In the second paragraph you should invite them to something you're currently appearing in, or if you're not appearing in anything, send them a link to/copy of your showreel. It's really important to write to an agent when you have an opportunity to show them your work, as this will increase your chances of hearing from them. It is an oxymoron that you need to be in work to secure an agent to get you work, but there are plenty of ways of getting around this.

You could sign up for a showcase evening (check out TriForce Promotion's Monologue Slam nights, or The Actors Company LA UK who organise pre-invited Agent showcases), or even get some other actor friends together who are also looking for representation and stage your own showcase, or stage some of your own work. It can be a lot of hard work organising your own showcase evening, but if it means you'll come away with representation at the end of it, it'll be worth it.

If you are doing the latter, I'd recommend dividing letter writing duties between all of you, and creating an invite to go with your cover letter that includes thumbnails of all your headshots, names and spotlight pins. This way you won't end up sending multiple invites per agent, which will only annoy them. Sending a professional looking group invite from the company as a whole will show initiative.

If you are inviting them to a show also ensure to include all the information, offer them a complimentary ticket, and let them decide on their own terms if they want to come or not, e.g. say "I'm soon appearing in ..., please let me know if you would like any complimentary tickets", rather then saying, "I've already put aside a ticket for you" or something to that effect, which can sound pushy and assuming.

Then round it off how you would normally round off an email/letter to an industry professional. Make sure with your letter/email you've enclosed/attached a copy of your CV, headshot and relevant contact details. Check that your CV is as up to date as possible, and tailor it to the agency if needs be.

Finally, double check it for spelling and grammar mistakes, and ask a friend to read it over too if necessary.

And best of luck!