Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes
Agents and business managers represent artists, performers, and athletes in their professional dealings. They negotiate contracts, handle business matters, and promote clients to employers and venues. This work takes place in offices, entertainment venues, and sports facilities across the country.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves negotiating contract terms with studios, teams, or venues; reviewing performance opportunities and endorsement offers; managing client schedules; and fielding inquiries from potential employers. Agents spend time on phone calls and meetings, reviewing legal documents, and strategizing career moves. They may attend performances or events to support clients and maintain industry relationships.
Who this work suits
Holland code ESC. Enterprising work is leading, persuading and making decisions. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy building business relationships and closing deals—the core of agent work. If you're energized by both the social aspects of working closely with creative or athletic talent and the strategic business side of negotiations and promotion, this career suits your mix of enterprising and social interests.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | $50,610 | $98,200 | $190,590 | 870 |
| California | $76,010 | $98,110 | $163,570 | 4,860 |
| Colorado | $56,100 | $95,530 | $154,960 | 80 |
| Texas | $68,210 | $82,920 | $102,390 | 320 |
| Michigan | $38,130 | $82,440 | $147,180 | — |
| New Hampshire | $60,970 | $81,690 | $103,340 | 40 |
| Connecticut | $78,330 | $81,470 | $102,850 | 170 |
| New Jersey | $63,920 | $81,190 | $134,680 | 170 |
| New York | $57,000 | $79,620 | $128,630 | 2,660 |
| Arkansas | $75,100 | $78,560 | $157,130 | 30 |
| Ohio | $61,190 | $76,790 | $84,050 | 100 |
| Tennessee | $51,310 | $75,390 | $123,950 | 730 |
All 17 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.