How to get a job at a Major Talent Agency

Want to get a job at a major talent agency? Learn how to stand out in the competitive entertainment industry job market with expert tips on networking, business skills, and clear communication.

How to get a job at a Major Talent Agency

Interview with Leslee Treleven, Director, Early Career Recruiting at United Talent Associates (UTA) from The AVA Connection

AvA: How can potential employees stand out in the application process?

Treleven: It’s all about intention and passion. Pay attention to the details. Tailor your resume specifically for the role you’re applying to, and provide clear, concise answers to any questions. Regardless of your degree, internships, or connections, make it crystal clear why you want this opportunity and why you’re the best fit.

AvA: What’s the best way to get your foot in the door to start a career in entertainment?

Treleven: Your network. If you’re still in school, this is the time to build it. Lean into your alumni community before you graduate, so you have relationships in place when it’s time to kick-start your career.

Your peers will be some of your biggest advocates, both now and in the future—especially in entertainment. Connect with people you admire, those who can teach you something, and those you can help in return. It’s not just about getting your foot in the door—it’s about staying in the room and building genuine relationships that last.

AvA: What skills or focus areas are becoming more important in the entertainment industry, helping candidates stand out from the competition?

Treleven: Business acumen and communication skills. There are always great ideas floating around, but those who understand how to bring those ideas to life and make them successful will stand out. While creatives drive the industry, those who can balance creativity with business strategy will go far.

Your ability to communicate your ideas is just as important. The pandemic created a noticeable drop in real-time communication skills, particularly among those just entering the workforce. To stand out, develop a clear point of view, and feel confident sharing it—whether in person, over the phone, or online. You never know when your “30 seconds” will come.

AvA: Do you think there’s value in hyper-focusing on a specific skill set, or is a more balanced approach better?

Treleven: At this point, it’s more about understanding that you don’t know what you don’t know. I often meet people convinced they want to work in a specific role or department, but when we dig deeper, they’re not entirely sure why—and that’s completely fine!

Focus on identifying your strengths and how they can be applied in different areas. Along the way, take every opportunity to learn and explore. You might discover a career path you didn’t even know existed.

AvA: Resume advice? Tips for the interview process?

Treleven: For resumes, less is more. One page is all you need at this stage. Keep it simple—black and white, Times New Roman. And double-check for spelling errors.

For interviews, prepare ahead of time, but don’t rely on a script—we can tell. Be yourself and show us that you’ve put real thought into finding the right fit for you. We’re rooting for you to succeed.

AvA: Podcast or book recommendations?

Treleven: 

• Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely. It’s a great read for understanding how people make decisions.
• Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer. Whether you’re selling an idea, trying to get a meeting, or handling rejection, this book breaks it down in a simple, digestible way.
• The Economist. I encourage new hires to read the summary pages or listen to a podcast covering global current events from a business perspective. Knowing what’s happening in the world gives you a competitive edge. Plus, it makes you feel smarter and more prepared to have meaningful conversations with anyone you meet.