Expert: Wanda Reinholdt - 5/5/2008

Question
QUESTION: hey Wanda, I need advice/opinions for signing with agency for commercial department?
When i was young my mom wanted to get me into commercials but didnt know how to get me started. I now am 19 and want to try to get into this local agencys "commercial department". They have higher requirements for submitting into their film&television department compared to the commercial depart. and these are the guidelines for commercial:
"Thank you for your interest in the Commercial Department. We are accepting submissions, please note the following guidelines for your package:
You must be 18+ years of age. Acting/Film & TV experience isn't required, but encouraged. Your package should include a 8x10 black and white headshot, cover letter, and working resume."

i dont have much experience besides takin some drama classes doin some improvisation and such, and have been thinkin about doin this for a while, Should i try and go for it? and how should i set up what they are askin from me for this department? ie: cover letter/working resume

appreciate any advice, Thanks


ANSWER: Hey Andy...And thanks for writing.  

I think you should definitely go for it.  

As far as a cover letter and working resume, it would be best for you to develop a cover letter that speaks about why you want to do this, what classes you have taken, and how you are interested in developing your career.  Your resume should include that information as well (classes) and anything that is related should go on your resume.  If you have nothing that is related, just list your job or jobs in the last few years as well as any other work you have done.  Be honest and be sure that it all looks professional.  And that should do it.  

Does that help?  

Wanda
www.kaizenworks.org

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for this helpful answer. i also forgot to mention 1 more thing, im from Canada also, Vancouver to be exact which is known as "Hollywood North" they say which should be a good city to get into this business. Are you familiar with any good agencies or places that would be a good start here in Vancouver?

Answer
Hey there Andy.  I'm in Alberta so I am not familiar with Vancouver.  However, contact agencies.  Ask them for testimonies of their work from people who have used their services.  That's actually a great way to figure out the agencies that are the best.  Any agency which is worth its salt should give you a testimony.   

Does that help?

Wanda