Commercial Representation
Commercial Representation refers to the professional service of representing talent (actors, models, voices) for commercial advertising work. This is different from theatrical representation, which focuses on movies and TV shows. Commercial representatives, often called commercial agents, help their clients land roles in TV commercials, print ads, voice-overs, and promotional campaigns. They negotiate rates, handle contracts, and maintain relationships with casting directors and advertising agencies. Think of them as business managers who specifically focus on getting their clients advertising work.
Examples in Resumes
Managed a roster of 50+ talents as Commercial Representative at leading agency
Secured over $2M in Commercial Representation bookings for clients in national ad campaigns
Led Commercial Rep division specializing in voice-over talent placement
Typical job title: "Commercial Representatives"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Commercial Representatives
Industry Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle contract negotiations for national commercial campaigns?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of industry rates, usage rights, residuals, and negotiation strategies. Should mention experience with major brands and understanding of union regulations.
Q: How do you develop and maintain relationships with major advertising agencies?
Expected Answer: Should explain networking strategies, regular communication methods, track record of successful placements, and understanding of agencies' needs and preferences.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you evaluate potential commercial talent?
Expected Answer: Should discuss looking for marketable qualities, assessing versatility, checking professional presentation, and understanding current market demands.
Q: Describe your process for submitting talent for commercial castings.
Expected Answer: Should explain reviewing breakdowns, selecting appropriate talent, preparing submission packages, and follow-up procedures with casting directors.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between commercial and theatrical representation?
Expected Answer: Should explain that commercial focuses on advertising work (TV ads, print, voice-overs) while theatrical deals with film and television acting roles.
Q: How do you stay organized when managing multiple talents?
Expected Answer: Should mention using talent management software, maintaining updated client profiles, tracking submissions, and managing schedules.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of commercial casting process
- Client database management
- Submission preparation
- Basic contract knowledge
Mid (2-5 years)
- Negotiation skills
- Relationship building with casting directors
- Understanding of union regulations
- Portfolio development strategies
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced contract negotiation
- Industry network leadership
- Team management
- Strategic client career planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of industry standard rates and practices
- Lack of understanding of union regulations
- Poor communication skills
- No experience with talent management software
- Unfamiliarity with commercial casting process
