3 Things to do When Work is Slow
There are 3 things all actors and models should do when work is slow.
Virtually all actors and models go through time periods when work is slow.
I was recently on a roll. Got cast in an ABC pilot, worked on a Steve Carell feature and then right after those jobs I had a 2-day commercial modeling booking.
Then I hit a two week stretch, where I had auditions, was sent up to the networks for consideration, but no immediate bookings. So, what did I do?
3 Things to Do When Work Slows Down
- 1. If you have been getting work on your own and don’t have representation, now is the time to begin searching for an agent. It is a great situation when actors and models continue to market themselves and search for work on their own, and have an agent helping them get auditions.
- Make Sure Your Materials Are Incredible
Head Shot
This is a great time to honestly look at your head shot, the most important marketing tool for an actor and even a commercial model. Is the head shot effective? Does it clearly allow people to see how you should be cast? Are you wearing anything (including jewelry) that stands out and grabs people’s attention? Do you have a plain background that will not take people’s eyes off of you?
Resume
Is your resume up to date? Do you have the correct contact information that will allow industry professionals to easily find you and see your work?
Is your educational information stated in a way that people will clearly understand what class you took? Some actors list things in a generic way that is not helpful to them. Having “acting class” on a resume, does not allow industry professionals to understand what you studied. For instance, “Acting for the Camera or TV Commercial Acting” will explain the class more clearly.
Do you have an accurate listing of your special skills? Think about what will help a casting director decide if you should be brought in for an audition. Can you drive a 5-speed? Have a valid passport? Are you a bartender, or proficient in sports, martial arts, speak foreign languages, ride a bike, etc…
If so, make sure they are stated on your resume.
Business Card
Once your head shots and resume’s are ready, another helpful tool is having an impressive business card. You never know when and where you will meet someone in the industry. You want them to easily remember and be able to contact you.
Have your head shot on your business card. This helps people remember you after meeting them. And, if they want to talk about you with others, they can show people what you look like.
Be careful with unusual fonts and colors that look cool, but make it difficult for others to easily read. List some of your credits, but make sure there is room for your contact information as well as social media links.
Marketing
Even if you have an agent, this is a great time to reach out to industry professionals whom you worked or have connected with in the past.
Staying in touch and letting people know what you have been doing is a great way of reminding people that you are around and available.
Send a still shot from one of your previous bookings in the note. And, have your head shot in the signature of your email.
I would avoid sending pictures as attachments. Many people are concerned about uploading a virus on their computer and are leery about opening up an unsolicited attachment.
Even if the industry professionals know you, sending them a note is a helpful way for them to remember to keep you in mind for their next project.
Classes
When there is not much work happening, now is a great time to take classes or private sessions. If you are not auditioning much, it is easy to get rusty so make sure you stay in audition shape.
Continue to stay sharp, get all of your materials together and let others know you are around and available.
These strategies have been very helpful to me.
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About the Author: Aaron Marcus
Aaron Marcus has been a full-time actor and commercial model for over 36 years.
His new book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model is an Amazon Best Seller.
Aaron has given his seminar: "Book the Job" over 800 times spanning 3 continents.
He also offers online workshops.
Aaron saves 5 days each month to give private on-line coaching sessions.
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