by Michelle Hayes

The Agent’s Playbook

The Agent’s Playbook is more than just a book — it’s your step-by-step strategy to breaking into the entertainment industry. Drawing from decades of experience as a successful talent agent and entrepreneur, Michelle Hayes shares insider secrets, practical advice, and real-world strategies that have launched countless careers.

Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a creative professional looking to navigate Hollywood, this book is your roadmap to success.

Whether you’re an aspiring actor or a creative professional looking to navigate Hollywood, this book is your roadmap to success. This isn’t just another acting book. It’s the only guide that reveals how agents think—and gives you the exact blueprint to turn your dreams into reality.

Meet Michelle Hayes...

Michelle Hayes, a trailblazing entrepreneur and talent agent hailing from the vibrant city of Chicago. With a background in business from Hampton University and an MBA from National Louis University, Michelle is the proud owner of a SAG Talent Agency.She has Franchised agencies across Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

Michelle’s unwavering focus on showcasing Chicago’s immense talent has propelled her agency to prominence, with many of her clients landing coveted roles in hit shows like The Bear, The Chi, Power, Empire, and Insecure. Notably, her recent success with booking a series regular and eight recurring roles on Power Book IV…

The Agent's Playbook by Michelle Hayes:

Step-by-step Strategies to Break Into Acting and Master the Industry

Inside this guide, you’ll uncover the right way to launch your acting career—straight from a talent agent’s perspective—while steering clear of scams.

The myth of "overnight success" – and why professional training is a must.
What agents really want in headshots, reels, and resumes (with examples!).
Red flags to watch for – from fake "Disney auditions" to predatory acting schools.
Agents vs. managers vs. casting directors – who does what?
Step-by-step strategies to land legitimate representation without paying a dime.

TESTIMONIALS

Reviews From Readers

“I wish I had this book when I first started out. Michelle breaks everything down — from decoding industry lingo to spotting scams — in a way that’s both practical and empowering. It’s the real roadmap every new actor needs.”

Corey, Series Regular

“The Agent’s Playbook gave me a professional edge. From revamping my headshot and reel to understanding how agents and casting directors really think, Michelle’s guidance helped me stand out in auditions.”

Riley S., Commercial Actor

“Michelle tells it like it is. No fluff, no false promises — just real-world strategies that helped me avoid costly mistakes and land an agent the right way. This book is a total game-changer, Highly Recommended!!”

Marcus V., Film Actor

“There’s so much noise out there, but this book cuts through it. The section on red flags alone probably saved me thousands of dollars — and the audition tips are worth their weight in gold.”

Jamie L., Aspiring Actor

Clients body of work

Check out some of Michelle Hayes’ clients and actors featured in hit TV shows and blockbuster films — proof that her playbook works.

Get In Touch...

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