Referral: an act of referring someone or something for consultation, review, or further action.
In our industry, you will see an agent, manager, or sometimes even a coach use the term 'referral only'. What that usually means to some... is that their doors are closed to the general public but if someone refers you to them they may look at your materials.
OMG OMG OMG! I want to be with this agent/manager... I NEED a referral ASAP... Let's go get one... mmmmm ... it's not that easy.
My personal opinion is that an industry referral is given to those whom I already have a close professional/personal bond with. I know your work, I know your work ethic, I know what you bring to the table, I literally put my stamp of approval on you and decide to say "Yes! This person is amazing!". That doesn't happen too often with me. In my 25 years of being a professional actor, I think I can count maybe 7 times I have given a true referral to someone.
I also think there is a HUGE difference between a recommendation and a referral. I can recommend an agency or a manager because "I've heard good things" but that doesn't mean I'm signing off on you or them.
The best way to get a referral from someone:
Make a list of everyone in your inner circle. Keep this list small. Concentrate on your closest relationships. Casting directors who know your work, teachers, mentors, and fellow actors who you look up to and respect. This isn't a list of acquaintances or strangers... this is a list of people you know.
Talk to those people individually. Since you have that close bond don't be afraid to ask for that referral. Worst case scenario they say no... Which brings me to a good point... If they say no... don't take it personally. They may not be in a position to refer you.
With all that information... Start a target list and do your research.
Don't lie about a referral... Trust me... If someone goes to my reps and said "Tony referred me to you" the first thing my reps are going to do is reach out to me and have a discussion about you.
Don't let a lack of referrals stop you from pursuing what you want. If you don't have the referral but wanna give it a shot.. go ahead. A cold submission may be just fine. Stuart K Robinson of BBR said agents usually won't pass up an opportunity if they see the money. You may be exactly what they are looking for.
You Got This!
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