Written for Casting Networks News by Terry Berland @berlandcasting.
Did you know what you were getting into when you decided you wanted to be an actor?
At the most basic level and simplest of terms, I venture to guess you thought being an actor meant majoring in acting in college and taking classes from established acting coaches in the field to build your foundation, which would be followed by the process of auditioning for roles.
However, once you begin working as an actor, you quickly realize that the profession is far more complex than it first appears. Let’s take a trip down this rabbit hole and explore what it truly takes to become a successful actor.
Learning the Craft
It is necessary to learn the basics of acting. However, when you start venturing out into the working world, you discover there are many genres of acting. These consist of drama, comedy, film, TV, theater and voiceover.
To take this a step further, each of these categories has its complexities and nuances.
Auditions
Your first audition will almost always be a self tape. To audition competitively, you have to be able to deliver a good self tape. This consists of the right equipment and other materials.
For self tapes, you’ll need a phone, computer, backdrop and proper lighting. In addition, you’ll need to be familiar with expected formats, which take very minimal editing. There are many workshops offered where you can learn how to do all of this.
Callbacks
Callbacks come with their own set of complexities. To have a successful callback, you need to know how to deliver variations of the read that initially got you called back.
At most callbacks, the director will stretch you in different directions to get a better sense of your range. As there are usually last-minute ideas or changes on the shoot day, the director will need to feel confident that your acting ability is flexible enough to stand up to the task.
Booking
My producer clients often tell me they like working with talent who can offer multiple variations on a role. On the other hand, they’ll sometimes say an actor is difficult to work with if they can only perform the role one way.
Patience
Patience is a virtue. I’ve watched actors starting their careers, and in hindsight, I see how much patience it truly takes.
Actors are facing disappointments, losing out on roles, struggling to secure representation, building their résumés from smaller to larger roles, and taking parts that may not pay off until years later, when these relationships can grow into bigger opportunities.
Running Your Own Business
Acting is your own business. Develop a support team that may consist of an agent, manager, accountant and even a photographer you like.
Think of your Casting Networks profile as part of your support team. Make sure your profiles are up to date.
Figure out a budget for your expenses. Obvious expenses are classes, photos, casting platforms and self-taping equipment. Build in a separate budget for unexpected costs.
Mental Resilience
Staying mentally strong is key. This career can challenge your confidence, so protecting your well-being is as important as honing your skills.
Develop a strong support system. Know who you can go to when you are feeling a little low. Also be aware of places, reading materials, podcasts and anything else you can turn to for inspiration and guidance.
Building a Reputation
Not only do you have to build your reputation in the craft of acting, but you also need to establish a strong professional reputation with the people you interact with. Casting directors, producers, directors, agents and fellow actors all take note of how you conduct yourself.
You want to be known as likeable, reliable, and easy to work with, as well as someone who takes direction well, shows up on time, is prepared, and brings a positive attitude to set or auditions.
Word travels in this business, and one bad interaction can affect future opportunities just as quickly as a good one can open doors. Your talent may get you in the room, but your reputation often determines whether you’re invited back. Building strong relationships and consistently demonstrating professionalism is just as important as your acting skills.
Final Takeaways
Starting your acting career is more than just learning lines and performing. It’s about mastering the craft, navigating auditions and building a professional reputation while managing your own business.
Success in acting comes not just from your skill but from your ability to navigate the industry thoughtfully and professionally every step of the way. The path requires patience, resilience and versatility both on and off the stage or screen.
Here’s a quick recap of the key steps to help you thrive in this complex industry:
- Invest in good equipment (phone, lighting, backdrop) and learn the proper formats to create polished self tapes.
- Be ready to adapt your performance with different variations. Flexibility shows directors your range and professionalism.
- Treat acting like a business by assembling a support team, budgeting for classes and materials, and keeping your casting profiles updated.
- Cultivate a strong support system and find sources of inspiration to maintain confidence through inevitable setbacks.
- Show up prepared, be reliable and easy to work with, and always maintain a positive attitude.
If you want to sharpen up on your commercial acting technique, follow this link to Terry Berland’s Commercial Acting workshop.
