So how did I get my current agent? I landed an offer to direct a series and another offer from a network for one of my shows. I called him and asked him if he would like to negotiate my deals for me.

One of the biggest mistakes I have seen when people get an agent is that they think they are on easy street and stop schmoozing, promoting themselves and pitching. They expect their agent to do everything. Then the offers stop coming.

Work smart and hard as hell and prove yourself as a good risk for agents. Learn how to pitch your ideas so you get offers. Don't rely on anyone else, but if you get a good agent, you can make a great team and everyone prospers.

Mark Simon is an award-winning animation director. He is co-founder of www.SellYourTvConceptNow.com, the ultimate resource for TV show creators. His animations may be seen at www.FunnyToons.tv. Join his TV Pitch blog at www.Facebook.com/pitchtv.