Thoughts: You don't need a big contest placement to get a manager. I didn't. What I did have was a great log line and a script sample I polished and polished for over a year.

Said script, was different, and from the dozens of feedback/coverage I received it showed that I had a "voice".

People often ask "why do you need a manager"? Here's my thoughts... Coming from Oakland, Ca I had zero film connections.

Not that having a manager is going to instantly connect you to the world, but coming on year 1 of having a manager, here's a few things I've noticed:

1) having a manager is like having a license to drive. You are not special, hell you may not even be a good driver but you CAN DRIVE on the freeway.

I've noticed in numerous general meetings saying "I have a manager", changes the course of the meeting. From basic talk to "okay now we can really talk about some shit."

2) a manager can be a useful go between. Especially for writing assignments. Iet the manager talk business while I keep it creative. I also feel a manager can get a more honest opinion from someone then you would as a writer.

3) managers can reach out to people in the industry that you legally couldn't. Plus I noticed if you have a manager people are more likely to read your material.

4) it's good to have a manager to talk possible ideas with. Especially if they know where your trying to go in your career and what your goals are. I don't read the trades everyday, he/she does.