As a literary manager who also does consultations, one of the most common questions I get asked is “will you be my agent?” It’s a weird question (because I’m a manager) but I get what people mean. I thought I’d share some of the things I look for when signing a new writer.
First off, the majority of my clients come from referrals. Agents, producers, existing clients all refer people to us. I also look at pitchfests for potential clients. I get dozens of queries a week, and I don’t read them.
When I’m looking at a potential client, I’ll always want to read two fantastic pieces of material, and then I’ll set a meeting to chat. The things we look for when having that conversation are:
• Someone who always writes
• A person I can put in the room with producers, directors, execs, etc
• Someone who watches TV and movies, and is aware of what’s out there
• A writer who reads the trades
• Someone who is networking, and meeting people
• Of course, somebody I want to speak to. I have a “no a-hole” policy
There are always other nuances, but these are the big things I love to find in a writer client. Happy to answer any questions.
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Hey Spencer, I want to try the full screenplay read and 30 minute talk, with you. Would you like to read a high budget sci-fi action adventure or a low budget action thriller?
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What would be best pitchfests to submit to?
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Love this post Spencer Robinson! When you say “A person I can put in the room with producers, directors, execs, etc.” what specific qualities are you looking for, and do you see creators and writers as the same thing or different categories?
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Billy Kwack Which one is closer to being done? I would say either is great.
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I’m in Australia. what Trades should I be reading please?
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Hey Spencer, the sci-fi is ready, the thriller, I need a 30 to 45 more days
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Dwayne Williams 2 Creators and writers are the same, but there are some writers who want to staff and some who don't. I guess that could be the only difference. Someone who can give a great meeting, take notes, etc.
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Billy Kwack Great!
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Spencer Robinson When evaluating a potential client, do you prefer writers who have multiple completed scripts ready to go, or writers who have several strong series bibles and development-ready concepts?
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so if I'm a writer what does it take to be signed by you ?
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Hi Spencer, so I'll find you when I'm done, okay
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Thanks for the recent posts Spencer Robinson - very valuable for new-ish writers that are outside the eco-system looking for those illusive tasks to string together that will lead to success. It's a bummer personally that queries get overlooked by most as I spend a lot of time on those. Hopefully one day I will be that referral that we all hope to be.
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Spencer — really appreciated this breakdown. I’m a Chicago-based screenwriter building a feature slate in thriller/horror/sci-fi/rom-com and I’m currently seeking management. My feature BRIGHT is a grounded psychological thriller about a teacher whose recurring dreams put her inside the perspective of missing girls, leading her to uncover a trafficking network embedded in a school system. I also have a completed romantic feature, Wherever the Wind Takes Me, centered on friendship, reinvention, and second chances. I’d love to connect and book a 30-minute consultation if you’re open.
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Carolyn Boone Deadline, Hollywood Reporter, Variety
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Dwayne Williams 2 Finished scripts
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Victor Ameke That’s what this post is about
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That's rich, Spenser. I like the sound of it all.
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Hi Spencer Robinson, what is a good amount of scripts to have in your "script stack?" I have 6 feature scripts s far, a 7th in writing, and a short in writing.
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Michael Dzurak “A good amount” for what? To start looking for reps? At least 2.
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Sharda Crawford Sure, feel free to book through Stage32.
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Thank you Spencer, I appreciate it. Looking forward to speaking with you.
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This post is great. Thank you for the valuable advice!
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Really appreciate you sharing this perspective. The point about wanting to see two strong samples really resonates — it’s a good reminder that consistency matters just as much as having one great script. Writers sometimes focus so much on “the one script” that they forget the goal is building a body of work.
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Spencer Robinson, Do you prefer a writer who has several non-series/feature-film bibles with scriptments, or a writer who has several completed full scripts?
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Hi Spencer Robinson ! I have a question about something I’ve experienced several times as a writer.
Producers sometimes reach out to me saying they like my profile or my project. They ask to see my material, and after reading it they often give very positive feedback and compliments.
However, at some point they mention a fee and ask me to pay money for the next step (for example development, representation, or pitching).
Is this something that actually happens in the industry, or is it usually a red flag?
Thank you for your insight!
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Spencer Robinson I meant a good amount to start showing around. If it's at least 2, then I am well pass that mark. Thanks.
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Thanks for the clarity on this Spencer Robinson
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Sanna Peth Red flag
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Brett Wickman Yep, that “one script” prob won’t sell when you first take it out, so you have to have more.
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Spencer Robinson Thank you very much for your help! You saved me from wasting about $3200. It turned out that the profile was indeed fake. I’m really grateful that you let me know.
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Great insights here, Spencer Robinson. Could you expand a bit for the community on what you mean by “somebody I want to speak to” and your “no a-hole policy” when deciding whether to sign a writer?
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Dwayne Williams 2 Somebody who is not an asshole
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Good to know.
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"Hi Spencer, I couldn’t agree more. From my experience, building relationships with producers isn’t just about having a project—it’s about showing your vision clearly and demonstrating commitment to every aspect of the story. I focus on crafting compelling characters and world-building that make producers see the potential, while keeping professional communication consistent and respectful. It’s amazing how much credibility and trust this approach builds."
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Hi Spencer, just wanted to say here that your feedback on 'my horror script, Witch Mother', was incredibly insightful at just the right time. It really helped me refine the script -- I’m so grateful, especially as it went on to win the Mammoth screenwriting competition.:)
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Selma Karayalcin Oh that’s great! Love to hear that it won, and thank you for the kind words! I love a good notes session!
Hello, thank you for your post. It’s quite informative. I’ve run into your posts on Facebook as well, and I believe we talked about you representing multi-hyphenates. Out of curiosity, if a writer wrote a part for themselves in their film, how would that work from a managers standpoint? Would you still take on the writer as a client or would that reduce their chances?
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Yan Ju Zeng It would not reduce the chances of signing someone. I will say that it makes sense, if you're not an actor with a lot of credits, to write the best friend or sister, etc role for yourself, and leave a lead role castable with a star.