A talent manager is in charge of an artist’s career, whether it’s as a painter, actor, writer, or musician. He or she considers the artist’s long-term goals and guides him or her down the right career path. The exact responsibilities of a talent manager vary depending on the industry and artist, but they typically include counseling, advising, developing, and promoting.
When working with new artists, talent managers advise them on what they believe the most important steps in their career path should be in order to achieve the desired outcome. Two people who want to be famous actors, for example, may have very different objectives. One aspiring actor’s goal may be to win an Academy Award, while another’s goal may be to receive constant project offers. A workable goal-focused plan can be agreed upon between the manager and the artist by deciding on a career path and using the talent manager’s connections in the industry.
Although the job duties of a talent manager and an artist’s agent may overlap at times, it’s important to distinguish between the two. Only agents may finalize contracts for bookings at venues such as galleries, theaters, or production studios, depending on the country or region. As much as is permitted, talent managers are frequently involved in negotiating work deals for their clients. They frequently advise artists to avoid certain contracts while encouraging them to think about others. Because talent managers are well-connected in their field, they typically get to know agents and the work they do so that they can better assist their clients in selecting the best one.
Artists are developed by talent managers who guide them into projects that will most likely help them achieve their career goals. A talent or artist manager will introduce his or her client to industry insiders and set up shows or performances for them. After that, a talent manager provides feedback on art or performances, and he or she is usually present at the client’s shows, concerts, and other events.
It is an ongoing managerial task to promote the artist, his or her work, and events. The talent manager works to promote the artist by bringing his or her name to the attention of the general public as well as industry insiders. One of the first promotional tasks for talent managers is to arrange for professional photographs of the artist. They also write press releases, work to build the artist’s fan base, and organize public events such as CD signings and art shows.