Are you a TV news anchor, reporter, sports reporter, or meteorologist on the hunt for a job? Having a skilled TV news talent agent is key to avoiding the most common pitfalls for TV news talent who are seeking work.
Because of their vast knowledge of the industry (and, more importantly, the people in it), agents can help you home in on the best deal. Especially when you have multiple offers.
A well-connected TV news talent agent will have relationships with station news directors and general managers that give him or her access to information that could affect your decision.
The Most Common Pitfalls for TV News Talent
If you’re a talented TV news personality facing several offers, it can be overwhelming. There’s a tendency to focus on the wrong things when considering which position to take. The following are examples of this:
Not Understanding How Far to Push An Offer
The first offer is rarely the best. But folks without an agent (or with an inexperienced one) are tempted to accept it flat out because they don’t know this.
A TV new talent agent KNOWS how far an offer can be pushed. Hair, clothing, and makeup that were once included are no longer part of the deal. The same can be said for relocation costs. An agent knows how to get companies to shell out compensation for at least part of these expenses when they hedge against paying them.
Another benefit of an agent is that they will advise most talent under the age of 30 to secure a deal that’s no longer than two years in duration. This is because by the time the third year comes around, the salary will no longer be enough. At that point, the agent would set up a renegotiation for more. (An exception is for a frontline anchor who is being offered significant money and terms.)
Choosing Based on Climate
Sure, it may be appealing to live in a place that’s warm and sunny all year. But any good agent will tell you that this should not be the driving force behind deciding which offer to accept.
For example, you may be drawn to accept a position in a city like Phoenix because it’s warm and sunny all winter. Yet, once you arrive, you may notice the pay isn’t consistent with the cost of living. Management in desirable climates knows there are plenty of talented people who will be willing to take positions and sacrifice the best deal for good weather.
Permitting Their Agent to Accept a Deal on Their Behalf
If you’re somewhat new to the industry, you might be eager to allow your agent to accept a deal on your behalf without fully understanding all the tenets of the deal. This should NEVER happen. A morally upstanding agent would not allow this. Every deal should be in writing before both the agent AND the talent sign off on it.
Guidance Matters
Avoiding the most common pitfalls for TV news talent comes down to enlisting an experienced and ethical talent agent.
An experienced TV news talent agent will recognize your true potential and be willing to coach you to help you find the best job for the most money.
Bottom line, having an agent will likely get you at least 15-20% more than you would get on your own. So contact us today!
