HOW TO: Digest the Industry from a Rep's Perspective (w/ Arman Yaghmai)

This week, we’re joined by Arman Yaghmai, a coordinator at Verve, for a candid, nuts-and-bolts look at how the literary side of the industry actually works. We begin with discussing why coverage is such a crucial entry point for assistants—and how to know when you’re ready to graduate out of it. We then pull back the curtain on the inner mechanics of a lit-forward talent agency, from weekly Open Writing Assignment meetings to how information travels internally and jobs get chased. We also dive into what a signing pursuit really looks like, and why many writers land a manager long before they sign with an agent. Additionally, Arman shares what he looks for in emerging talent, what kind of pitching is most effective, and why the industry’s favorite question—“Why now?”—might be better reframed. We wrap up by defining what makes a great agent (reading, relationships, and genuine passion) and exploring how a shifting industry—and the rise of vertical content—could create new pipelines into traditional entertainment. VARIETY'S 10 ASSISTANTS TO WATCH 50/50 COMEDY FEST SUBMISSIONS