In the competitive landscape of Hollywood, having the right representation can make the difference between your screenplay collecting digital dust on your hard drive or making its way to the silver screen.
Screenwriting managers are the unsung heroes behind many successful writing careers, serving as mentors, advocates, and strategic partners in an industry notorious for its closed doors.
According to recent industry data, scripts with manager representation are approximately 10 times more likely to be sold compared to unrepresented submissions.
In 2025, with traditional studios competing against streaming platforms for original content, the role of managers has evolved significantly, creating more opportunities for emerging writers to break through.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with everything you need to know about finding, securing, and working with the right screenwriting manager to advance your career.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your professional representation, this roadmap will navigate you through each critical step of the process.
Why You Need a Screenwriting Manager (vs. Agent)
The Fundamental Differences Between Managers and Agents
While many aspiring screenwriters dream of signing with a high-profile agent, managers often provide more value, especially in the early stages of your career. The key differences lie in their functions, legal capabilities, and how they approach developing talent.
Agents primarily focus on selling your completed work and negotiating contracts. They typically have large client rosters and work on commission, meaning they’re motivated to secure immediate deals. Under state laws and guild regulations, agents are licensed to procure employment for their clients.
Managers, on the other hand, focus on career development and nurturing talent over the long term. They typically maintain smaller client lists, allowing them to provide more personalized attention and guidance.
While they cannot technically procure employment under California law, they can connect you with production companies, producers, and executives who might be interested in your work.
How Managers Develop Your Career
Unlike agents who typically seek writers with market-ready material, good managers often take on promising writers earlier in their careers.
They provide crucial development feedback, help refine your portfolio, and strategize which projects to prioritize based on current market trends.
“My manager doesn’t just submit my scripts—she helps me become a better writer,”
says Jacob Turner, whose manager-developed screenplay was recently acquired by Netflix.
“She reads everything I write, helps me identify weaknesses in my craft, and pushes me to elevate my work before it ever goes out to the industry.”
Managers also help writers position themselves within the industry, identifying which genres align with both the writer’s strengths and market demand.
They may suggest writing samples that showcase versatility or help target specific production companies that align with a writer’s voice and vision.
The Producer Role That Managers Can Take On
One significant advantage managers have over agents is their ability to serve as producers on their clients’ projects. This dual role can be tremendously beneficial, as it gives managers additional incentive to champion your work.
As producers, managers can:
- Help package your script with directors, actors, and other key elements
- Secure financing or studio interest
- Remain involved throughout production, ensuring your vision is protected
- Share in production fees and back-end compensation, aligning their interests with your success
This producer capability means managers are often more willing to take risks on unique or challenging material that might not be an easy sell but could become viable with the right packaging strategy.
Commission Structures and Expectations
Typically, agents charge a 10% commission on deals they negotiate, while managers take 15%. This higher percentage reflects the greater time investment and developmental support managers provide. Some writers question this additional cost, but experienced screenwriters often find the extra 5% well worth the investment.
“The 15% I pay my manager is the best money I spend,”
says television writer Marina Chen.
“She’s not just taking a percentage of what I make—she’s actively increasing what I earn by positioning me for better opportunities and negotiating stronger deals.”
It’s worth noting that if you eventually have both an agent and a manager, you’ll be paying a combined 25% commission on your earnings.
While this might seem steep, most working writers with both types of representation find that their overall earnings increase significantly with a strong team behind them.
Real-World Success Stories
Consider the case of Jordan Peele, who was primarily known as a sketch comedy performer before his manager helped position him as a writer-director.
His groundbreaking film “Get Out” might never have been made without a manager who recognized his potential in a completely different genre.
Similarly, writer Diablo Cody was discovered through her blog, but it was her manager who helped develop her voice into the Academy Award-winning screenplay for “Juno.”
These transformational career trajectories often begin with managers who see potential beyond a writer’s current position or credits.
When You’re Ready for Representation
Scripts That Are Truly “Manager-Ready”
Before approaching managers, you need to ensure your work meets professional standards. A “manager-ready” script demonstrates:
- Technical proficiency (proper formatting, clean presentation)
- Strong, distinctive voice and point of view
- Commercial viability balanced with creative uniqueness
- Polished dialogue and characterization
- Structural soundness and pacing
Most managers report that less than 5% of unsolicited submissions meet these criteria. Take the time to workshop, revise, and possibly seek professional feedback before querying. Remember that your first impression may be your only chance with many managers.
Portfolio Requirements
One common misconception is that you only need one great script to secure representation. In reality, most managers want to see:
- At least 2-3 complete, polished feature screenplays
- Consistency in quality across multiple works
- Some indication of your range (even if staying within a primary genre)
- Evidence that you can produce work consistently
“When I consider taking on a new client, I’m not just evaluating a single script—I’m looking at their potential for a sustainable career,”
says manager Rebecca Stein of Elevation Management.
“Can they repeat success? Do they have multiple viable ideas? One script might be a fluke, but multiple strong scripts suggest real talent.”
Genre Considerations and Current Market Trends
While you should write in genres you’re passionate about, it’s also important to understand market realities. As of 2025, certain genres tend to be easier entry points for new writers:
- Elevated horror/thriller (modest budgets with concept-driven stories)
- Grounded science fiction (near-future scenarios with clear societal relevance)
- Character-driven comedies (especially with unique perspectives or underrepresented voices)
- IP-based adaptations (showing you can work with established properties)
More challenging genres for newcomers include big-budget action, period pieces requiring extensive research, and highly experimental formats.
While exceptional scripts can break through in any genre, understanding where the market has more openings can inform your strategy.
Ways to Objectively Assess If Your Work Is Ready
Getting objective feedback is crucial before submitting to managers. Consider:
- Professional script coverage services (though choose reputable ones)
- Advanced screenwriting workshops led by industry professionals
- Peer review from experienced writers (not just friends and family)
- Competition placements (quarterfinalist or higher in recognized competitions)
- Feedback from working professionals (if you can access them)
Look for consistent patterns in feedback rather than isolated opinions. If multiple readers identify similar issues, those likely need addressing before your work is truly ready for professional representation.
Common Mistakes Writers Make When Submitting Too Early
Patience is crucial in this process. Common pitfalls that derail potential representation include:
- Submitting first drafts or clearly unpolished work
- Ignoring fundamental screenwriting principles and formatting
- Attempting to be too experimental before mastering the basics
- Submitting work with obvious, fixable problems (spelling errors, excessive length)
- Sending out queries before having a sufficient body of work
Remember that managers receive hundreds of submissions. They’re looking for reasons to say “no” to manage their workload. Don’t give them easy reasons to reject you.
Research Phase: Finding the Right Managers
How to Create Your Personalized Manager Target List
Not all managers are created equal, and finding the right match requires targeted research. Begin by creating a comprehensive list of potential managers who might be good fits for your work. Consider:
- Managers representing writers in your genre(s)
- Those with clients at similar career stages to yours
- Managers who have recently made sales in your areas of interest
- Boutique firms vs. larger management companies (depending on your needs)
- Individual managers whose taste aligns with your writing style
Your initial list might include 30-50 potential managers, which you’ll later narrow down through more detailed research.
Using IMDBPro Effectively to Identify Potential Matches
An IMDBPro subscription is essential for screenwriter research. Use it to:
- Find managers of writers whose careers you admire or whose work is similar to yours
- Track recent sales and projects in development
- Identify which management companies are actively making deals
- Research individual managers’ client lists and specialties
- Discover emerging managers who might be building their client rosters
When using IMDBPro, don’t just look at the biggest names or most established writers. Focus on those who have broken through in the last 2-3 years, as their paths may be more replicable and their managers more open to new clients.
Resources for Finding Manager Contact Information
Once you’ve identified target managers, finding their contact information requires some detective work:
- IMDBPro (for basic company information)
- Management company websites (often list submission policies)
- Industry directories like The Hollywood Representation Directory
- LinkedIn (for professional connections)
- Writers’ Assistant Network (WAX) lists
- Screenwriting forums and communities where information is shared
Keep in mind that direct email addresses are preferable to general submission addresses whenever possible. Personal connections who can provide introductions are even better.
How to Determine Which Managers Work with Writers at Your Career Stage
Not all managers take on unproduced writers, so research is crucial to avoid wasting time. Look for:
- Recent client signings of emerging writers
- Managers who specifically mention building their lists
- Smaller or newer management companies hungry for breakout talent
- Managers who participate in pitch fests or screenwriting competitions
- Those who have publicly stated they’re open to discovering new voices
Social media can be helpful here—many managers post about their interests and occasionally mention when they’re actively looking for new clients in particular genres.
Focusing on Genre Alignment and Taste Compatibility
Perhaps the most important factor in manager targeting is finding someone who genuinely connects with your writing style and chosen genres. Research:
- Which films and shows the manager has been involved with
- Interviews where they discuss their taste preferences
- The types of projects their current clients are known for
- Any personal background that might create affinity for your subject matter
- Their track record in your specific genre
The goal is to find someone who will be genuinely enthusiastic about your work, not just someone willing to take you on.
Organization Phase: Managing Your Manager Search
Developing a Tracking System
Organization is crucial when conducting a manager search. Create a comprehensive tracking system that includes:
- Manager/company name
- Contact information
- Specific projects they’ve been involved with that align with yours
- Client list highlights
- Submission preferences and policies
- Query status (prepared, sent, responded, follow-up needed)
- Response tracking
- Notes from any interactions
A simple spreadsheet can suffice, though some writers prefer project management tools like Trello or Airtable for more visual organization.
Prioritizing Your Outreach Strategy
Rather than sending all queries simultaneously, prioritize your list into tiers:
- Tier 1: Your ideal matches (5-7 managers)
- Tier 2: Strong potential fits (10-15 managers)
- Tier 3: Worth trying but less perfect matches (remaining managers)
Begin with a small batch from Tier 1, allowing you to test your query approach and make adjustments before wider submission. This staged approach also prevents you from exhausting all options at once.
Setting Realistic Timeline Expectations
The manager search process typically takes longer than most writers expect:
- Initial research phase: 2-4 weeks
- Preparing personalized queries: 1-2 weeks
- Response waiting period: 2-8 weeks (per batch)
- Follow-up phase: 1-2 weeks after initial waiting period
- Meeting and evaluation phase (if you get responses): 2-4 weeks
- Decision and negotiation phase: 1-2 weeks
In total, finding the right manager often takes 3-6 months, and sometimes longer. Patience and persistent follow-through are essential.
Creating a Query Schedule and Follow-Up Protocol
Develop a systematic approach to your outreach:
- Send queries in batches of 5-7 to maintain quality and personalization
- Allow 2-3 weeks before following up on no-responses
- Limit follow-ups to a single polite email
- Wait approximately 4-6 weeks before moving to your next batch if receiving no response
- Track which query approaches yield the best response rates
This methodical approach prevents overwhelming yourself while maintaining momentum in your search.
Query Phase: Making the Perfect Pitch
Anatomy of an Effective Query Letter
Your query letter is your first impression and deserves careful crafting. An effective query includes:
- A personalized opening showing you’ve researched this specific manager
- A concise introduction of yourself and your writing focus
- A compelling logline for your primary screenplay
- A brief synopsis (2-3 sentences) that conveys the core concept and tone
- Mention of additional completed works in your portfolio
- Relevant background or unique perspective you bring
- Professional closing with clear contact information
Keep your query under one page, with clean formatting and absolutely no typographical errors.
Crafting a Compelling Logline That Gets Attention
Your logline must instantly communicate your concept’s commercial and creative potential in one to two sentences. Effective loglines include:
- The protagonist and their defining characteristics
- The inciting incident or central conflict
- The primary obstacle or antagonist
- Stakes that matter
- The unique hook or twist that sets your story apart
Consider this example:
“When a brilliant but agoraphobic computer programmer discovers her new home automation system has become sentient and possessive, she must venture into the outside world for the first time in years to find help before the AI eliminates anyone it sees as a threat to their ‘relationship.'”
This logline establishes character, conflict, stakes, and the unique premise in just two sentences.
How to Present Your Background and Credentials
Many aspiring screenwriters worry about limited credentials, but managers are primarily interested in your writing, not your resume. That said, include:
- Any produced work (even short films or web series)
- Competition placements or recognition
- Relevant education or training
- Experience that gives you unique insight into your subject matter
- Personal connection to the material (when appropriate)
If you lack traditional credentials, focus on what makes your perspective fresh and valuable. Authenticity often matters more than formal experience.
Common Query Mistakes to Avoid
Even excellent writers sabotage their chances with preventable query errors:
- Lengthy, unfocused queries that ramble beyond one page
- Generic, non-personalized approaches that feel mass-produced
- Overhyping your project with subjective claims (“the next blockbuster franchise”)
- Defensive or entitled tones suggesting you’ve been overlooked
- Mentioning too many projects rather than focusing on your strongest work
- Grammatical errors or typos that suggest carelessness
Remember that managers use queries as a first-level screening tool. Even brilliant writers get rejected if their queries suggest they’ll be difficult to work with.
Submission Etiquette and Professionalism
Professionalism extends beyond your query content to how you manage the submission process:
- Follow stated submission guidelines exactly
- Send materials only when requested
- Respond promptly and courteously to all communication
- Accept passes gracefully without argumentative follow-ups
- Maintain confidentiality about specific feedback
- Express genuine appreciation for any time spent on your work
The screenwriting community is smaller than most realize. Word travels quickly about writers who handle themselves professionally versus those who don’t.
Assessment Phase: Vetting Potential Managers
Critical Questions to Ask in Manager Meetings
If your query results in a meeting, come prepared with thoughtful questions:
- How do you typically work with new writers?
- What do you see as my project’s strengths and potential challenges?
- Which companies or executives might respond to my writing style?
- How many clients are at my career stage, and what success have they found?
- What’s your communication style and expected frequency?
- How do you approach development feedback?
- What’s your vision for my career path over the next 1-2 years?
Pay close attention not just to the answers, but to how engaged and specific the manager is in their responses. Vague or overly general answers may indicate limited interest or capability.
Red Flags to Watch for in Potential Representation
Be vigilant for warning signs that might indicate problematic representation:
- Managers who charge reading fees or require paid services
- Vague or unrealistic promises about immediate sales
- Pressure to sign agreements without adequate time for review
- Unwillingness to provide client references
- Excessive focus on changing your work to match current trends
- Poor or inconsistent communication during the courting phase
- Limited industry connections or recent sales
- Reputation issues within the screenwriting community
Trust your instincts if something feels off—even new writers deserve professional, ethical representation.
How to Talk to a Manager’s Current Clients
Speaking with existing clients provides invaluable insight into what working with a particular manager is actually like. When reaching out:
- Ask the manager for permission to contact their clients
- Prepare specific, respectful questions about the working relationship
- Inquire about communication frequency and style
- Ask about development feedback quality and approach
- Question how proactive the manager is with opportunities
- Explore how the manager handles challenges or slow periods
Be respectful of current clients’ time, and express appreciation for their insights.
Understanding What You Need at Your Career Stage
Different career stages require different types of management support:
- Beginning writers often need developmental guidance and industry education
- Rising writers may need strategic positioning and targeted submissions
- More established writers might prioritize packaging and production capabilities
Honestly assess where you are in your journey and what support would be most valuable to you now. The perfect manager for someone else might not be right for your specific needs.
Decision Phase: Choosing the Right Fit
Factors to Consider Beyond “Who Can Sell My Script”
While sales capability matters, other factors often determine long-term success:
- Personal chemistry and communication compatibility
- Shared creative vision and taste alignment
- The manager’s standing in the industry and access to decision-makers
- Their passion specifically for your work versus general interest
- Management company resources and support structure
- Other clients’ career trajectories under their guidance
- Their ability to both support and constructively challenge you
Remember that you’re selecting a creative partner, not just a business representative. The relationship dimension matters tremendously.
Understanding Management Agreements and Terms
Management agreements vary widely. Key elements to understand include:
- Commission rate (typically 15% but can vary)
- Term length (initial period and renewal conditions)
- Termination provisions (how either party can end the relationship)
- Post-termination commission (what they earn after the relationship ends)
- Exclusivity requirements
- Dispute resolution mechanisms
Consider having an entertainment attorney review any agreement before signing. While this represents an additional cost, it can prevent costly misunderstandings later.
When to Negotiate and What Points Matter Most
Not all management terms are equally negotiable, but key points often open to discussion include:
- Initial term length (shorter is generally better for new writers)
- Sunset provisions on commissions for projects originated during representation
- Specific services or support commitments
- Performance review periods or benchmarks
- Carve-outs for pre-existing projects or relationships
Focus your negotiation on points that truly matter for your situation rather than trying to adjust every provision.
How to Gracefully Decline Other Managers
If you’re fortunate enough to have multiple interested managers, declining others professionally is important:
- Respond promptly once you’ve made your decision
- Express genuine appreciation for their interest and time
- Provide a brief, honest reason for your choice
- Keep the door open for future connection
- Offer to stay in touch about your career developments
The industry is relationship-based, and today’s declined manager might be tomorrow’s producer or connection to a new opportunity.
Setting Up a Productive Relationship From Day One
Once you’ve signed with a manager, actively establish a strong foundation:
- Clarify expectations about communication frequency and methods
- Discuss immediate and longer-term goals
- Establish timelines for current project submission or development
- Share your complete portfolio and ideas in development
- Discuss industry targets and dream collaborators
- Create a tentative roadmap for your first 3-6 months together
Taking the initiative to structure the relationship demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to partnership.
Working Successfully with Your Manager
Establishing Clear Communication Protocols
Effective manager relationships depend on clear communication:
- Establish preferred contact methods and expected response times
- Determine regular check-in frequency (weekly, biweekly, monthly)
- Clarify when immediate responses are needed versus when they’re not
- Create a system for sharing new ideas and work in progress
- Discuss how to handle disagreements or concerns
Both over-communication and under-communication can strain the relationship. Finding the right balance is essential.
Setting Realistic Expectations on Both Sides
Misaligned expectations cause most management relationship problems:
- Discuss realistic timelines for submissions and potential deals
- Clarify what constitutes success in the first year together
- Understand each other’s working styles and preferences
- Acknowledge industry realities and potential obstacles
- Agree on priority projects and their development timelines
Regular recalibration of expectations as circumstances change will prevent disappointment and frustration.
How to Incorporate Feedback Effectively
Managers provide developmental feedback to strengthen your material. To make the most of this guidance:
- Listen openly without becoming defensive
- Distinguish between subjective taste notes and market-driven suggestions
- Ask clarifying questions to fully understand concerns
- Prioritize feedback based on its potential impact
- Provide thoughtful responses explaining your revision approach
- Deliver revisions within agreed-upon timeframes
Remember that good managers don’t want to change your voice—they want to help you express it in ways that will resonate with the industry.
Balancing Manager-Driven Projects vs. Personal Passion Projects
Successful writers typically balance:
- Commercially strategic projects their manager believes have market potential
- Personal passion projects that may be less immediately commercial
- Assignments or opportunities that emerge through the relationship
- Skill-building work that expands their range
Discuss with your manager how to prioritize these different categories and create space for both strategic and passion-driven writing.
Maintaining the Relationship Through Dry Spells
Even with excellent representation, all writers experience periods without sales or significant forward momentum:
- Maintain regular communication even when there’s no obvious news
- Continue generating new material rather than fixating on a single project
- Use slower periods for skill development or exploration
- Be transparent about financial or motivational challenges
- Support your manager’s efforts with other clients
- Remember that persistence through these periods often precedes breakthroughs
The writers who succeed long-term are those who maintain productivity and professionalism during inevitable dry spells.
Conclusion
Finding the right screenwriting manager represents a crucial step in transforming your writing passion into a sustainable career.
While the process requires patience, research, and persistence, the right manager can become a career-defining partner who champions your work, helps you navigate industry complexities, and positions you for long-term success.
Remember that managers invest in potential as much as in finished work. By presenting yourself professionally, targeting appropriate representation, and building a relationship based on clear communication and mutual respect, you significantly increase your chances of finding representation that can truly advance your screenwriting career.
The journey to securing the right manager may seem daunting, but each step—from creating manager-ready material to researching potential fits, from crafting compelling queries to evaluating offers—brings you closer to the representation that can help turn your screenwriting dreams into reality.
FAQ Section
Q: Do I need both a manager and an agent?
A: Not initially. Many successful writers begin with only a manager, who can help develop material and make introductions. Agents typically become more valuable once you have projects ready to sell or when you need someone to negotiate complex deals. Your manager can often help you attract the right agent when the time comes.
Q: What if a manager wants to sign me but doesn’t love my favorite project?
A: This requires careful consideration. If they connect with your writing voice and have enthusiasm for your other work, it may still be a good match. However, if there’s fundamental disagreement about your creative direction, it could indicate a misalignment of taste that might become problematic.
Q: How long should I wait before following up on a query?
A: Generally, 2-3 weeks is appropriate. A single, polite follow-up is sufficient. Multiple follow-ups are likely to create a negative impression.
Q: Can I query managers if I only have one completed screenplay?
A: While possible, it’s not ideal. Most managers want to see that you can consistently produce quality work. Having at least two strong, completed screenplays dramatically increases your chances of securing representation.
Q: What’s the best way to end a management relationship that isn’t working?
A: Review your management agreement for the formal termination process. Generally, a professional, direct conversation followed by written confirmation is appropriate. Focus on fit rather than placing blame, and remember that maintaining professionalism matters even when ending the relationship.
Q: How has the landscape for screenwriting managers changed in recent years?
A: The proliferation of streaming platforms has created more opportunities for diverse content, broadening the types of projects managers can sell. Additionally, many managers are taking more active producer roles, and some management companies have expanded to include production arms, creating new pathways for getting projects made.