Talent Agent how-to

How to Negotiate a Booking Fee

Good deals build careers.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Good deals build careers. In short: know; know; ask, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Know the market rate.

  2. Know your floor.

  3. Ask for more than you expect.

  4. Trade, don’t give.

  5. Get terms in writing.

  6. Confirm with the client.

Safety reminders for talent agents

  • Follow agency laws
  • Avoid conflicts of interest
  • Protect client finances
  • Handle contracts honestly

Commission · Booking · Rate · Deal memo · Exclusivity · Packaging: see the full talent agent glossary.

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