Right place, right time? Sometimes ...

I received an e-mail from Nicole, a young actor, who is looking to get to the next level in the business, having recently graduated from college in the mid-west. She posed two important questions that apply to a lot of other actors, as well.


Nicole wanted to know “How to be in the right places" and "What to do” as she begins her career journey. Her newly acquired agent's advice: "Be patient." I hate that. Indeed, you must be much more than just "patient."

The requirement, from the Business of Acting philosophy, is that you are (or have to learn how to become) pro-active in every way possible. Being in the “right” places requires you to define and discover where those places are. Anywhere you can hone your craft, develop your skills and network with other like-minded people is the target.

If you are a SAG member (or as soon as you become one), you are eligible to participate in the many, varied and wonderful SAG Foundation events and seminars, all for free. If I were you, I’d be at every one I could possibly attend. L.A. Casting regularly offers free seminars for its members. I highly recommend both of these.

I would also look at some “private” groups that might also be beneficial for you to join, such as The Actors Network. I would also (if you don't already do this), make it a point to regularly read at least one of the two trades and Backstage every week. Knowledge is empowerment — and the more you know about the business in which you want to make your living, the better prepared you will be for every opportunity that comes your way.

If you haven’t read The Business of Acting, I think you will find a lot of helpful perspective contained in its chapters. In it, you’ll read that agents work for you. To be told by your agent to “be patient” isn’t good enough. The book teaches you how to take charge of your career and be the leader of your team. You might also find a lot of helpful advice and information on the Business of Acting Blog, accessible through a link on the home page at TheBusinessOfActing.com.

In an effort to be totally self-serving, as well as helpful, I would urge you to check out many of the interviews with working actors and other industry professionals now playing on-demand, for free, on our Web TV series Inside the Business of Acting.

Another book you might find helpful is Acting and How to Be Good At It, by veteran actor and acting coach Basil Hoffman. Basil writes from his many years of experience and serves up some very helpful advice for all young (and older) actors.

Go forth and become empowered. There will be a test on this. :)

Got a question about the business of acting? Post your question here or e-mail me directly at blemack@TheBusinessOfActing.com.

Brad Lemack