What a Comedy Talent Manager at Framework Entertainment Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Talent Management Industry
Rachel learned that the initial allure of working with "a-list comedy people" at large agencies like ICM and Stein wasn't as rewarding as anticipated, discovering a greater sense of fulfillment in nurturing "up and coming voices" at smaller companies. Rachel wishes that early in their career, they'd focused less on the "ego" of working at the "top dog" companies and more on finding a place where they could thrive and experience real growth and flexibility.
Career Paths, Company Culture, Personal Fulfillment, Industry Experience, Ego vs. Growth
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Rachel Heffler
Comedy Talent Manager
Framework Entertainment
Syracuse University
N/A
Film, Media Arts, Visual Arts
Arts, Entertainment & Media
Sales and Client Management
Honors Student, Greek Life Member, LGBTQ
Video Highlights
1. Working with A-list talent may not be as rewarding as working with up-and-coming voices.
2. There can be a lot of ego involved when starting out, with a desire to be at the 'top dog' company, but smaller companies can offer better growth and flexibility.
3. Don't let the allure of big names or ego influence decisions about where to work; focus on finding a place where you can thrive.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
When I was first starting out, I began at ICM, one of the biggest agencies. My first role after college in management was at Stein, a major management company.
At the time, I thought I'd thrive at a big firm, working with prominent figures. I did end up working with A-list comedy talent at my last couple of jobs.
However, I found that working with already established stars was far less rewarding for me. My career path led me to leave those companies and join a smaller one.
I wanted to focus on emerging talent, not already big names, because I found working with up-and-coming artists to be much more fulfilling.
Looking back, I wish I knew there's a lot of ego involved when you're first starting out. You might want to be the "top dog," but you eventually realize that might not be the best fit for you.
A smaller company where you can truly thrive can be equally, if not more, beneficial for growth and flexibility. Don't let big names or ego prevent you from finding the right place for your career.