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Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes

SOC 13-1011.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers the full practice context of artist, performer, and athlete representation — from entry-level administrative and support functions within talent agencies through executive-level client strategy, deal-making, and agency leadership in entertainment, sports, and media industries.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Client contract terms and payment schedules — review and track under supervisor guidance within an established talent agency environment.
  2. Promotional materials and work samples — compile and distribute to potential employers following established agency protocols for audition submissions.
  3. Industry news, trade publications, and deal announcements — monitor regularly to build foundational awareness of entertainment and sports market trends.
  4. Candidate intake interviews — assist in coordinating and observing under senior agent direction during initial client evaluation sessions.
  5. Negotiation correspondence and meeting notes — document and organize under supervision to support senior agents in contract discussions with promoters and managers.
  6. Client career goals and agency actions — communicate updates clearly in scheduled check-in meetings under the guidance of a supervising agent.
  7. Professional contact databases using CRM software — enter, maintain, and retrieve records to support network-building efforts within the agency.
  8. Client performance and promotional engagements — assist in scheduling by coordinating logistics and confirming dates using calendar and email tools.
  9. Spreadsheet and accounting software — use to track commission payments, fees, and client financial records under direct oversight.
  10. Written correspondence including emails and client summaries — draft accurately and professionally using standard agency templates and style guides.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Commission fees and contractual payments — calculate, collect, and reconcile with reduced oversight using agency accounting software and contract terms.
  2. Work sample packages and promotional media — independently prepare and submit to targeted employers and sponsors to secure auditions and endorsement opportunities.
  3. Emerging industry trends and competitive deal structures — analyze and synthesize to inform client strategy recommendations in routine advisory meetings.
  4. Prospective client auditions and portfolio reviews — conduct independently using established evaluation criteria to assess talent fit and commercial viability.
  5. Contract terms and union obligations — negotiate directly with promoters and representatives in familiar deal contexts, escalating complex issues as needed.
  6. Client career development strategies — formulate and present in structured consultations, adapting recommendations to each client's goals and current market position.
  7. Professional networks across talent, media, and sponsorship sectors — cultivate proactively by applying relationship-building techniques in industry events and digital outreach.
  8. Performance and promotional booking calendars — manage end-to-end for multiple clients simultaneously, coordinating venues, media appearances, and contractual deadlines.
  9. Web page creation and video editing tools — use to develop and update digital promotional assets that enhance client visibility across relevant platforms.
  10. Complex client disputes or scheduling conflicts — assess, prioritize, and resolve by applying critical thinking and time management skills in a fast-paced agency setting.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Multi-party payment structures and royalty arrangements — negotiate and administer across complex contracts autonomously, ensuring full compliance with agreed terms.
  2. Comprehensive client promotional campaigns — design and execute independently, integrating work samples, digital media, and targeted outreach to secure high-value sponsorship and endorsement deals.
  3. Macro-level shifts in entertainment, sports, and media markets — evaluate continuously and translate into proactive, forward-looking strategic adjustments for client portfolios.
  4. Talent identification and evaluation — lead audition and interview processes for diverse candidate pools, applying nuanced judgment to assess long-term commercial and artistic potential.
  5. High-stakes contract negotiations with major studios, leagues, unions, and corporate sponsors — conduct autonomously, protecting clients' rights and maximizing deal value across non-routine situations.
  6. Long-term career architecture for clients at various career stages — develop and refine collaboratively, integrating market intelligence, personal branding, and financial planning considerations.
  7. Cross-sector professional relationships with executives, media buyers, and brand managers — leverage strategically to create tailored opportunities that align with each client's career trajectory.
  8. Full engagement booking operations for a diverse client roster — oversee end-to-end, resolving scheduling conflicts and contractual complications with minimal escalation.
  9. CRM and information retrieval systems — leverage at an advanced level to analyze relationship data, identify pipeline opportunities, and optimize outreach strategies across the client book.
  10. Ethical and legal dilemmas involving client representation, conflicts of interest, or contractual breaches — evaluate independently and resolve using sound judgment and industry best practice.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Agency-wide commission and revenue frameworks — design and implement to ensure sustainable business performance, aligning pricing structures with market benchmarks and client value tiers.
  2. Organizational promotional strategy and brand positioning — direct at the agency level, setting standards for how client work is packaged and presented to industry decision-makers.
  3. Industry trend intelligence programs — establish and lead, institutionalizing knowledge-sharing systems that keep the entire agency ahead of market disruptions and emerging opportunities.
  4. Talent acquisition and client roster strategy — define selection criteria and oversee evaluation processes to build a diversified, high-potential client portfolio aligned with agency growth goals.
  5. Complex, precedent-setting negotiations with major industry stakeholders — lead personally while coaching junior agents, establishing the agency's reputation as a formidable deal-making force.
  6. Agency-client relationship philosophy and career management doctrine — articulate and champion organizationally, ensuring all agents deliver consistent, strategic counsel across the client base.
  7. Strategic alliance and partnership development — initiate and sustain at the executive level with studios, leagues, brands, and media conglomerates to generate exclusive opportunities for agency clients.
  8. Agency booking operations and scheduling infrastructure — architect and govern, implementing systems and staffing models that support high-volume, multi-client engagement management at scale.
  9. Technology adoption and digital capability roadmap — lead for the agency, evaluating and deploying CRM, analytics, and media production tools that enhance competitive intelligence and client service.
  10. Organizational culture, talent development, and succession planning — drive agency-wide, mentoring emerging and developing agents and establishing performance standards that elevate the profession.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Contract-term summaries — uses an AI assistant to extract key dates, payment clauses, and obligations from standard client agreements, then manually reviews each clause before acting Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Industry trend monitoring — delegates initial scanning of trade news, deal announcements, and market reports to an AI tool, then curates the findings for client strategy sessions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Promotional package drafting — directs an AI assistant to generate first drafts of pitch emails, bio copy, and sample submission cover letters, then edits for voice and relationship context before sending to potential employers Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Client evaluation prep — uses AI-generated research briefs on prospective clients' prior work, audience metrics, and market positioning to inform audition and interview criteria Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Commission tracking — sets up AI-assisted workflows to reconcile payment schedules, flag overdue fees, and surface contract discrepancies, retaining final approval on all financial decisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Negotiation intelligence — synthesizes AI-produced analyses of comparable deal benchmarks, union rate tables, and competitor offers to anchor contract positions, while relying on personal judgment and social perceptiveness to navigate the human dynamics of the negotiation Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Endorsement deal scoping — orchestrates an AI pipeline that screens sponsorship inquiries against client brand criteria, outputs ranked opportunity shortlists, and drafts initial response language, with the agent making all relationship-level decisions Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Workload orchestration — manages a high volume of concurrent client engagements by routing routine correspondence and deadline reminders to AI automation, freeing attention for persuasion-intensive conversations that AI cannot replicate Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Strategic deal architecture — directs multi-step AI agents to model contract scenario outcomes, simulate counter-offer sequences, and flag regulatory or union compliance risks, then applies negotiation expertise and relational capital to close terms the AI cannot influence Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. AI capability governance — evaluates which agent tasks warrant AI autonomy versus human judgment, establishes firm-level protocols for AI-assisted client representation, and trains junior agents on responsible handoff boundaries within the practice Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 2619
Augment share: 95%
Time saved: 83.2%
AI autonomy: 3.20
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Persuasion
Score: 57.3 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Data Science and Analysis
data_science_and_analysis
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication13 statements
Emerging
  1. Client intake communication — elicits career goals and background through structured initial consultation while establishing rapport with prospective talent clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Promotional outreach communication — drafts basic cover letters and transmittal notes accompanying client work samples sent to potential employers or casting contacts O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Verbal clarity — conveys contract terms and commission structures to new clients using plain language during onboarding conversations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Pitch communication — presents client portfolios and highlight reels to promoters and booking agents using tailored talking points that align client strengths to buyer needs O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Active listening in negotiation — identifies unstated priorities of opposing parties during contract discussions by reflecting and paraphrasing key concerns before responding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Career strategy communication — explains actions taken on a client's behalf, including deal outcomes and missed opportunities, using clear summaries after each negotiation cycle O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-audience communication — adapts messaging tone and detail level when addressing union officials, brand marketing teams, media outlets, and talent clients within the same deal cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sponsorship communication — constructs compelling endorsement proposals that articulate a client's brand alignment, audience reach, and commercial value to prospective corporate partners O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Contract term communication — translates complex legal and financial language from talent agreements into accessible summaries that enable informed client decision-making Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  4. Media-facing communication — prepares clients and responds on their behalf to press inquiries, ensuring consistent public messaging that supports career positioning O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Thought leadership communication — authors industry commentary and speaks at entertainment or sports business forums, elevating agency reputation and attracting high-profile talent Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Crisis communication — orchestrates messaging strategy during client controversies, coordinating statements across legal counsel, publicists, and media outlets to protect client standing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentorship communication — coaches junior agents on pitch construction, active listening techniques, and negotiation dialogue through live deal observation and structured debrief sessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership11 statements
Emerging
  1. Client advocacy initiative — takes ownership of a single client's scheduling calendar and tracks follow-up tasks independently without requiring manager direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Relationship building initiative — proactively contacts new industry connections identified at events to expand the agency's network on behalf of assigned clients O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Deal leadership — leads negotiation calls with promoters or licensors for mid-tier clients, setting the agenda, managing pace, and closing action items without senior agent intervention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client career direction — convenes quarterly strategy sessions with clients to set measurable career milestones, assign responsibilities, and review progress toward booking and revenue targets O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Vendor and partner coordination — directs publicists, stylists, and tour managers engaged on behalf of a client, aligning their work to the agent's overarching career strategy O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Portfolio leadership — manages a roster of multiple clients simultaneously, prioritizing deal opportunities, allocating negotiation effort, and ensuring no client's career momentum stalls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Agency process leadership — establishes submission and audition tracking workflows adopted by the broader team to improve consistency of client promotional outreach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Talent development leadership — identifies emerging artists or athletes at auditions or showcases and makes evidence-based signing recommendations that shape the agency's future talent mix O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Agency strategic leadership — sets the agency's market positioning, target client demographics, and deal-type priorities for a two- to three-year horizon, aligning team capacity to strategic goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Industry leadership — represents the agency in trade association committees or union negotiations that shape standard deal structures and commission norms across the talent representation sector O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Successor development — mentors a cohort of developing agents through progressive deal exposure, structured coaching, and delegated client responsibilities that prepare them for independent roster management Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition10 statements
Emerging
  1. Deal self-assessment — reflects after each client negotiation to identify where persuasion tactics succeeded or broke down, documenting lessons in a personal deal log Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Knowledge gap recognition — identifies unfamiliar contract clauses or industry terminology encountered during submissions and seeks clarification before acting on incomplete understanding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Strategy monitoring — evaluates midway through a client's campaign whether the promotional approach is generating auditions or sponsorship inquiries at the expected rate and adjusts tactics accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Bias awareness — recognizes personal preference for certain talent genres or deal types and deliberately auditions or pursues clients outside comfort areas to test assumptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Learning strategy selection — chooses targeted methods such as attending industry showcases, reading trade publications, or consulting entertainment attorneys to close specific knowledge gaps identified through self-assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Negotiation self-regulation — pauses during high-stakes contract discussions to evaluate whether the current approach is advancing or stalling agreement, then consciously shifts tactics based on real-time self-monitoring Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Career planning metacognition — periodically examines personal career trajectory as an agent, comparing current client roster composition and deal complexity against professional development goals Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Client strategy evaluation — reviews the outcomes of career strategies developed with clients against initial projections, extracting transferable insights to refine planning for other roster members O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic self-reflection — conducts formal retrospectives on the agency's annual deal outcomes, identifying cognitive patterns in deal selection and negotiation behavior that constrain performance, and redesigning practice accordingly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Teaching metacognitive practice — structures onboarding programs for junior agents that include explicit self-monitoring exercises, deal reflection protocols, and feedback loops that build durable self-assessment habits Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking11 statements
Emerging
  1. Contract term analysis — identifies key financial and performance obligations in a standard talent agreement and flags clauses requiring attorney review before client signature Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Trend monitoring — surveys trade publications and deal announcements to distinguish meaningful industry shifts from short-term noise when advising clients on career direction O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Deal evaluation — weighs competing offers for a client by analyzing financial terms, creative control provisions, exclusivity restrictions, and reputational implications before recommending acceptance or rejection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client viability assessment — evaluates a prospective client's market positioning, competition, and commercial trajectory during audition or interview to determine whether signing aligns with agency capacity and strategy O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Assumption testing — challenges a client's self-assessment of their marketability by cross-referencing comparable talent deal histories and current buyer demand data before setting commission targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Evidence-based negotiation — constructs arguments for improved client compensation using documented comparables, performance metrics, and market rate research rather than positional bargaining alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Risk analysis — evaluates reputational, financial, and legal risk in endorsement or appearance agreements by systematically examining exclusivity conflicts, morality clauses, and cancellation terms Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Career strategy reasoning — develops multi-year client career plans by analyzing industry trend data, client skill trajectory, and competitive positioning to identify the highest-probability pathways to sustained commercial success O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Market intelligence synthesis — integrates data from deal databases, union rate schedules, audience analytics, and competitor agency activity to generate agency-wide strategic insights that improve deal outcomes across the entire client roster Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Complex dispute resolution — applies structured logical analysis to multi-party contractual disputes involving clients, promoters, and unions, identifying the core interests beneath stated positions and constructing resolutions that survive legal scrutiny Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Predictive talent evaluation — develops and refines a systematic framework for assessing prospective client commercial potential that outperforms intuitive judgment, grounded in historical signing outcomes and deal performance data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. Internal coordination — shares client scheduling information and deal status updates with agency colleagues to prevent booking conflicts and duplicated outreach efforts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional network engagement — participates constructively in industry events and trade gatherings, contributing to shared relationship-building that benefits multiple agents across the agency O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-functional deal collaboration — coordinates with entertainment attorneys, publicists, and accountants during complex deal structuring, integrating each party's expertise into a unified recommendation for the client O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client co-planning — works alongside the client to co-develop career strategy, incorporating the client's creative vision and personal priorities into promotional and booking decisions rather than imposing agent-driven plans O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Union and guild collaboration — engages constructively with union representatives to navigate collective bargaining requirements, treating the relationship as a long-term professional partnership rather than an adversarial constraint O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-agent roster collaboration — coordinates across agents within the agency when clients share promotional opportunities or when one agent's deal creates scheduling implications for another's client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Promoter and buyer relationship management — maintains reciprocal, trust-based working relationships with repeat buyers and promoters by delivering on commitments and sharing market intelligence that benefits both parties O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Client team integration — aligns the work of a client's full professional team including coaches, managers, and media trainers by establishing shared goals, communication norms, and decision rights at the outset of each engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Industry ecosystem collaboration — builds coalitions with agents from competing agencies to advocate collectively for improved standard deal terms, rate floors, or industry practices that benefit talent representation broadly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentored collaboration — designs collaborative deal structures in which junior agents co-lead negotiations with guidance, treating the process as a developmental scaffold while maintaining client outcome quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Fiduciary responsibility — accurately accounts for all fees, commissions, and payments collected on a client's behalf and remits funds according to contract terms without deviation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Confidentiality — maintains strict discretion regarding client personal information, negotiation positions, and deal terms shared in confidence during the representation relationship Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Conflict of interest disclosure — proactively identifies and discloses to clients any personal financial interest or agency relationship that could influence deal recommendations, allowing informed client consent Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability in client outcomes — acknowledges directly to a client when a negotiation strategy or submission approach produced a suboptimal result and takes responsibility for the decision without deflecting blame Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Ethical persuasion — applies persuasion techniques that accurately represent client capabilities and track records, refusing to fabricate credentials or misrepresent a client's experience to secure engagements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Professional integrity under pressure — maintains honest client communication during extended dry periods or failed deals, resisting the temptation to overpromise outcomes to retain a dissatisfied client Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Commission transparency — provides clients with itemized accounting of all commissions, deductions, and expense reimbursements, proactively explaining calculations without waiting for client inquiry O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Equitable client representation — allocates promotional effort and negotiation attention across the full client roster in proportion to each client's contractual standing, not personal preference or relationship depth Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical standard-setting — establishes and enforces a written code of professional conduct for the agency that governs commission practices, client communication standards, and conflict of interest protocols Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Industry integrity advocacy — publicly champions fair representation practices and transparent commission structures within trade associations, elevating ethical norms for the talent management profession Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Promotional concept generation — develops basic creative ideas for client promotional packages, such as themed sample reels or novel submission formats, to differentiate clients in competitive audition pools Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Deal structure exploration — considers non-traditional compensation arrangements such as revenue sharing or back-end participation when standard fee offers fall below a client's market value O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Career pivot ideation — identifies unconventional market opportunities for clients whose primary performance category is saturated, such as transitioning an athlete into broadcasting or a musician into brand development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Sponsorship concept creation — designs original partnership concepts that connect a client's personal brand narrative to a corporate sponsor's campaign objectives in ways that go beyond standard endorsement templates O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Submission strategy innovation — invents new outreach methods for placing client work samples with decision-makers, such as curated digital showcases or invitation-only preview events O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Brand narrative construction — crafts a distinctive and commercially compelling personal brand story for each client that differentiates them in their category and anchors all promotional and media communications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Deal architecture creativity — structures multi-tiered agreements that bundle performance fees, licensing rights, merchandise revenue, and appearance guarantees into integrated packages that maximize total client compensation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Market creation — identifies and cultivates emerging buyer categories or platforms for client talent before competitors recognize the opportunity, generating first-mover advantage for the client and agency O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Business model innovation — develops new agency service offerings or revenue models, such as co-production arrangements or talent incubation programs, that expand the agency's value proposition beyond traditional commission-based representation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Industry trend creation — positions clients as pioneers in emerging talent categories or content formats, generating demand where none previously existed and establishing the agency as a thought leader in new market development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset10 statements
Emerging
  1. Industry learning — reads trade publications, follows deal announcements, and attends industry events consistently to build foundational knowledge of market rates, buyer preferences, and emerging talent categories O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Rejection processing — treats failed audition submissions or lost sponsorship pitches as data points for improving future outreach strategies rather than as indicators of permanent limitation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill development pursuit — seeks out opportunities to observe or co-lead negotiations in deal types outside personal experience, such as international rights licensing or digital platform contracts, to expand competency range Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Client feedback integration — solicits direct feedback from clients about the quality of career guidance and negotiation outcomes, and uses critical input to adjust approach in subsequent strategy discussions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Market adaptation — responds to disruptions in a client's industry sector, such as streaming platform consolidation or league policy changes, by actively acquiring new knowledge and reconfiguring client strategy rather than defaulting to prior playbooks O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous deal learning — systematically reviews the outcomes of closed deals against initial negotiation targets, extracting patterns that inform improved positioning and tactic selection in future comparable negotiations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional development investment — pursues advanced training in entertainment law, financial management, or digital media to deepen expertise that directly enhances the quality of client representation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Resilience through career cycles — maintains productive activity and strategic creativity during prolonged market downturns or client roster transitions, treating sustained difficulty as a context for skill building rather than retreat Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture creation — establishes agency-wide practices such as deal debrief sessions, guest expert briefings, and shared deal libraries that institutionalize continuous learning across the entire agent team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Pioneering adaptation — leads the agency into unfamiliar talent sectors or deal structures ahead of market consensus, modeling the willingness to learn under uncertainty that characterizes expert growth orientation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention management — maintains focus on client priorities during high-volume periods by using structured task lists and scheduled check-ins rather than reacting exclusively to the loudest immediate demand Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness — recognizes personal stress responses during contentious negotiation calls and pauses briefly to regulate before responding, preventing reactive concessions or counterproductive escalation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Intentional client presence — gives undivided attention during client career consultations, resisting interruption by other deal activity, to ensure clients receive fully considered strategic guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Negotiation composure — maintains calm and deliberate communication during adversarial contract discussions, using measured pacing and silence intentionally rather than filling pressure moments with premature concessions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Stakeholder perception — applies social perceptiveness to identify shifts in the emotional tone of buyer or promoter conversations, using those signals to adjust approach in real time O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-stakes regulation — manages personal anxiety during career-defining negotiations for major clients by grounding attention in preparation and process rather than outcome attachment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Roster attention balance — deliberately allocates focused attention across all clients on a regular cadence, preventing star-client bias from creating neglect of less prominent roster members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional deal pacing — structures negotiation timelines with deliberate intervals that allow all parties to reflect, preventing reactive decision-making that undermines optimal deal outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful leadership modeling — demonstrates and explicitly teaches emotional regulation, attentional discipline, and intentional communication practices to junior agents through observable behavior in live deal environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational mindfulness — designs agency workflows and meeting norms that reduce reactive busyness, protect deep-focus time for complex deal work, and sustain team well-being through peak booking seasons Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Rejection persistence — continues submitting client promotional materials to potential employers after repeated non-responses, maintaining outreach cadence based on strategic confidence rather than immediate results Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — proceeds with client career planning and deal development during periods of market volatility or industry disruption without waiting for full certainty before taking action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Negotiation endurance — sustains principled negotiation positions across extended multi-session contract discussions without capitulating prematurely under buyer pressure or timeline urgency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Client crisis support — remains a steady and action-oriented advocate for clients during reputational crises, personal hardships, or career setbacks, providing strategic guidance without being destabilized by the client's emotional state Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Career trough navigation — maintains productive deal-making activity and positive client communication during prolonged booking dry spells, modeling resilience that stabilizes client confidence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-conflict negotiation courage — directly confronts unfair contract terms, exploitative provisions, or bad-faith negotiating behavior from promoters or employers on behalf of clients, accepting relationship friction as a necessary cost of principled advocacy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Long-term roster building perseverance — invests sustained effort in developing emerging talent clients over multi-year timelines before commercial returns materialize, maintaining commitment through slow growth phases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Adversarial environment resilience — continues to advocate effectively for client interests within union disputes, arbitration proceedings, or hostile negotiation environments without withdrawing engagement or reducing quality of representation O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systemic adversity leadership — guides the agency through industry-wide crises such as entertainment strikes, pandemic-driven cancellation waves, or major regulatory changes, sustaining team morale and client retention through sustained organizational stress Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous industry advocacy — takes public positions on exploitative industry practices or unfair standard deal terms that create professional risk for the agency, acting from principle rather than commercial self-interest Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Acquisition Agent · Advance Agent · Agent · Artist Manager · Artist Representative · Artist's Manager · Artist's Representative · Athlete Manager · Athlete Marketing Agent · Athletic Agent · Author's Agent · Band Manager
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
PersuasionActive ListeningSpeakingReading ComprehensionNegotiationSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationCritical ThinkingTime ManagementWritingActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingService Orientation
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceSales and MarketingEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementFine ArtsCommunications and MediaAdministrativePersonnel and Human Resources
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionProblem SensitivitySpeech RecognitionSpeech ClarityDeductive ReasoningInductive ReasoningWritten ExpressionNear Vision
Work styles
Social OrientationSelf-ConfidencePerseveranceLeadership OrientationDependabilityAchievement Orientation
Technology
Graphics or photo imaging softwareOperating system softwareVideo creation and editing softwareCustomer relationship management CRM softwareData base user interface and query softwareElectronic mail softwareWeb page creation and editing softwareAccounting softwareInformation retrieval or search softwareSpreadsheet software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Collect fees, commissions, or other payments, according to contract terms.
  2. Send samples of clients' work and other promotional material to potential employers to obtain auditions, sponsorships, or endorsement deals.
  3. Keep informed of industry trends and deals.
  4. Conduct auditions or interviews to evaluate potential clients.
  5. Negotiate with managers, promoters, union officials, and other persons regarding clients' contractual rights and obligations.
  6. Confer with clients to develop strategies for their careers, and to explain actions taken on their behalf.
  7. Develop contacts with individuals and organizations, and apply effective strategies and techniques to ensure their clients' success.
  8. Schedule promotional or performance engagements for clients.
CIP education codes
09.090650.100150.100250.109952.0202

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.