Hey there aspiring actor!
So, you’re looking to get your foot in the door of the acting world, huh? Well, you’ve come to the right place. As an acting school that has seen many talented actors come and go, we’ve picked up a thing or two about how to get work as an actor.
So, let’s dive in!
1 – Network
When it comes to networking in the entertainment industry, it’s important to remember that building relationships is key. Attending industry events such as film festivals, conferences, and premieres is a great way to meet other professionals in your field. Not only will you have the opportunity to learn from others and stay up-to-date on industry trends, but you’ll also have the chance to make meaningful connections with people who may be able to help advance your career.
But don’t just attend events for the sake of attending them. Be strategic in your approach. Research the event beforehand and find out who will be there. Make a list of people you want to meet and what you hope to gain from the interaction. This will help you feel more prepared and confident when you approach someone.
When you’re at the event, don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation. Introduce yourself and ask about their work. Show genuine interest and enthusiasm, and be sure to listen actively. People appreciate when you take an interest in their work and will likely remember you for it.
Remember that networking is a two-way street. It’s not just about what others can do for you, but also what you can do for them. Offer to help out on a project or make a connection for them if you can. By being a helpful and generous person, you’ll be more likely to be remembered and recommended to others in the industry.
Lastly, don’t forget to follow up after the event. Send a polite email or message thanking them for their time and reminding them of who you are and what you discussed. This will help keep the connection alive and could lead to future opportunities.
In summary, networking is crucial for actors who want to get work in the industry. Attending events, being strategic in your approach, showing genuine interest in others, offering to help out, and following up after the event are all important aspects of effective networking. By building relationships and staying connected, you’ll be more likely to land your next gig and advance your career.
2 – Get on the Socials
In today’s digital age, social media can be a powerful tool for networking and promoting yourself as an actor. When it comes to creating a professional social media presence, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, choose your platforms wisely. While it can be tempting to sign up for every social media platform out there, it’s better to focus on a few that you can actively maintain and engage with. Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn are all popular platforms in the entertainment industry, so consider starting with those.
Next, make sure your profiles are professional and polished. Use a high-quality profile picture and cover photo, and write a compelling bio that highlights your experience and skills as an actor. Avoid using slang or inappropriate language, and make sure your posts and interactions are respectful and appropriate for the industry.
Once you’ve set up your profiles, it’s time to start networking. Follow casting directors, agents, producers, and other industry professionals whose work interests you. Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing when appropriate. But don’t just be a passive follower – share your own content as well. Post photos and videos of your work, behind-the-scenes glimpses of your process, and updates on your projects.
It’s also important to be authentic and show off your personality. Social media is a great way to give people a glimpse into who you are as a person and as an actor. Don’t be afraid to show some humour or vulnerability, and let your unique voice shine through in your posts and interactions.
Finally, remember to stay active on social media. Post regularly, engage with others, and stay up-to-date on industry news and trends. By maintaining an active and professional social media presence, you’ll be more likely to catch the attention of industry professionals and land your next gig.
In summary, social media can be a powerful tool for networking as an actor. Choose your platforms wisely, create a professional and polished profile, engage with industry professionals, share your own content, show off your personality, and stay active. By using social media strategically, you can build relationships and promote yourself as an actor in the digital world.
3 – Get seen at Auditions and Casting Calls
Auditions are a crucial part of the acting process, and there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you’re prepared and confident when you walk into the room.
First and foremost, it’s important to stay informed about open casting calls in your area. Check industry websites, social media groups, and other resources to stay up-to-date on opportunities that are relevant to your interests and skills. When you find an audition that you’re interested in, research the project and the character you’re auditioning for. Try to get a sense of the tone, style, and overall vision of the project so that you can tailor your performance accordingly.
When it comes to preparing for an audition, there are a few key steps to follow. Start by carefully reading the script or sides you’ve been given, and make sure you understand the character and their motivations. Memorise your lines as early as possible so that you can focus on your performance and delivery. Practice your performance (preferably with a friend or acting coach), and make adjustments based on feedback.
It’s also important to consider your physical appearance and wardrobe for the audition. Dress appropriately for the character and the project, but also make sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. Avoid distracting jewellery or accessories, and make sure your hair and makeup are appropriate for the character and the audition.
Finally, it’s important to stay calm and focused during the audition itself. Take deep breaths, visualise your performance, and remind yourself that you’ve prepared as much as you can. When you enter the room, be polite and professional, and follow any instructions given to you by the casting director. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you’re unsure about something, and remember to stay present and engaged throughout the audition.
In summary, auditions are a crucial part of the acting process, and preparation is key. Stay informed about open casting calls, research the project and character, memorise your lines, practice your performance, dress appropriately, and stay calm and focused during the audition. By following these steps, you’ll be more likely to impress casting directors and land your next role.
4 – Create your own content
If you’re not getting called in for auditions, it can be discouraging, but there are still plenty of ways to get your work out there and showcase your talent. Here are some tips to help you create your own content:
First, decide on the type of content you want to create. Consider your strengths as an actor and your interests as a storyteller. Are you drawn to comedy, drama, or something in between? Do you have a specific message or theme you want to explore?
Next, gather a team. You may need a writer, director, producer, and other crew members depending on the scope of your project. Reach out to fellow actors or industry professionals you’ve met through networking to see if they’re interested in collaborating.
Once you have your team, it’s time to start developing your project. Brainstorm ideas, write a script, and plan out your production. Make sure to set realistic goals and timelines, and be prepared to adjust your plans as needed.
Once you’ve created your content, it’s time to get it out there. Submit it to festivals, post it online, and share it with industry professionals. You can also host a screening or showcase to invite people to see your work.
Creating your own content not only gives you a chance to showcase your skills, but it can also help you build your resume and reel. Plus, it shows industry professionals that you’re proactive and passionate about your craft. Who knows, your project may even lead to new opportunities and connections in the industry.
In summary, creating your own content can be a great way to get your work out there and showcase your talent. Decide on the type of content you want to create, gather a team, develop your project, and get it out there. Not only can it help you build your resume and reel, but it also shows industry professionals that you’re proactive and passionate about your craft. Don’t be afraid to take the initiative and create your own opportunities in the industry.
5 – Train your craft
Training is an essential part of any actor’s career, no matter how experienced you are. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your training:
First, consider the type of training you want to pursue. There are a variety of options, from traditional acting classes to specialised workshops in areas like voice, movement, or improv. Think about your goals as an actor and what areas you want to improve in.
Next, research your options. Look for reputable training programs, classes, or coaches in your area or online. Ask for recommendations from industry professionals or fellow actors. Make sure to read reviews or attend a trial class to get a sense of the quality of the training.
Once you’ve found a training program that suits your needs, commit to it. Attend classes regularly, participate actively, and give it your all. Take notes, ask questions, and be open to feedback.
In addition to formal training, make sure to keep practicing on your own. Read scripts, work on monologues or scenes, and experiment with different techniques or approaches. You can also practice with other actors, either in a formal setting or through informal readings or rehearsals.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Acting can be emotionally and physically demanding, so make sure to prioritise self-care. Get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and take breaks when you need them.
In summary, training is an essential part of any actor’s career. Consider the type of training you want to pursue, research your options, commit to your program, practice on your own, and take care of yourself. By investing in your craft and staying sharp, you’ll be better equipped to tackle auditions and succeed in the industry.
In conclusion, getting work as an actor takes a combination of networking, auditioning, creating your own content, and ongoing training. But above all, don’t give up. The road to success in the entertainment industry is rarely a straight line, but with hard work, determination, and a little bit of luck, you can achieve your dreams. Good luck out there, and break a leg!
