Planning Ahead
If your contract is coming to an end then you need to be discussing options 3 months from the contract ending.

Looking Elsewhere
Speak to Senior Players, Coaches and trusted contacts who will have your best interests at heart. Do not instruct more than one party to act on your behalf as it is clear in the RFU code of conduct that a player can only appoint one agency to handle their affairs.

Expectations
If you decide an agent is for you talk through the process before agreeing to commit. Discuss your expectations your strengths and weaknesses, what's important to you. This should be agreed with your agent. You need to have your agreement in writing - if you don't have a true understanding from the outset how can you expect a good working relationship and a favourable outcome. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask for the right to be able to terminate the agreement.

Clarify what and how the agent is being paid for their work in writing - they should not be receiving payment as a service to the club as well as charging you.

Agreement
Keep your side of the bargain - if you've agreed to work exclusively with an agent, don't undermine your position by working with others or directly with a club yourself. If you feel your needs are not being serviced raise the issue and/or terminate the deal. Treat others as you expect to be treated yourself.

If you're not sure then ask - An agent should keep you informed of what is happening.

Any contract or written agreement should be taken away and read carefully whilst discussing the content with your agent. Initial each page and take a photocopy of anything you sign.

Your Agent
What is vital for a player is being given honest advice and this is where relatives who represent players sometimes struggle. Your agent must have faith in their ability and the ability of the player to walk away from the negotiating table when the arrangement being suggested by the club is not right for the player. Too often relatives will agree contracts on behalf of the player because of their emotional attachment; professionally this can be the wrong decision.

Picking an agent can be difficult but MC Sports would suggest you look around, talk to people, or better still contact the players being represented and ask them for some honest feedback.

We wish you well in your decision.