Some agents/promoters learn their trade by managing their own performing career initially, or by helping friends. Most gain experience in a variety of arts administration or other commercial jobs before setting up their own licensed agency.
The majority of agents/promoters work in London but there are increasing numbers of agents based across Britain – see the Agents' Association website.
There are no set qualifications for becoming an agent – the key is relevant experience which you could get through volunteering or temporary work, e.g. helping with student/community drama, community events such as street carnivals, and working in front of house or box office in arts centres, cinemas or theatres.
Visit the Arts Council website for relevant volunteering/temporary work and get information from arts officers in your local authority and from Voluntary Arts Network.
You would need general administration skills, and you may find it useful to have qualifications or experience in areas such as word processing, book-keeping, public relations and marketing.
You may be able to start as an assistant or secretary in an arts organisation and work your way up.
A degree could be an advantage, although not essential. Relevant subjects include arts management, arts administration options in other arts-related degrees, events and entertainment management, and business studies, but relevant experience is more important than having a degree.
Some postgraduate courses include work placements in arts organisations, and can be useful for developing contacts.