Becoming an actor looks glamorous from the outside, but behind every booking is a mix of discipline, resilience, and smart business decisions. Acting is both an art and a profession, and success often comes from treating it like a long-term career rather than a quick break. Whether your goal is commercials, theatre, film, or television, this guide walks through the realities of the industry and the steps that help actors stay working.
Prepare Mentally for the Realities of Acting
Rejection is not an exception in acting—it is the norm. You may audition dozens of times before landing a role, and even strong performances can be passed over for reasons completely outside your control.
Actors are often judged on:
- Physical appearance or “type”
- Height, age range, or look
- Chemistry with other actors
- Availability or last-minute schedule changes
Long stretches with no work are common, even for experienced performers. Preparing mentally means separating your self-worth from booking outcomes, developing routines that support confidence, and viewing auditions as opportunities to practice rather than verdicts on talent.
Balancing Acting With Second and Third Jobs
Most actors juggle other jobs, especially early in their careers. The key is flexibility.
Good side jobs for actors often:
- Allow shift trading or short notice time off
- Offer remote or freelance options
- Do not drain creative energy
Waiting tables, rideshare driving, freelance writing, virtual assisting, teaching, or gig-based work can all support an acting schedule. Treat your acting like the primary goal, even if another job pays the bills.
Build a Strong Portfolio (Online and Physical)
Your portfolio is your professional introduction. It should include:
Headshots
Professional headshots are essential. When hiring a photographer, ask:
- Do you specialize in actor headshots?
- How many looks are included?
- Will the lighting and background suit commercial vs. theatrical work?
- Do you allow wardrobe changes?
- What retouching is included?
Avoid over-editing. Casting directors want to see you, not a filtered version.
Resume
Your acting resume should list:
- Training
- Roles and productions
- Special skills (languages, accents, athletics, instruments)
Online Presence
Most actors maintain:
- A personal website or profile page
- Casting platform profiles
- A clean, professional social media presence
Consistency across platforms matters more than volume.
Finding Casting Calls and Auditioning Smart
Casting calls vary by medium:
Commercials
- Often shorter auditions
- Focus on personality, relatability, and timing
- Fewer lines, more emphasis on natural delivery
Theatre
- Live auditions with monologues or cold reads
- Vocal and physical presence matter
- Professionalism and preparation are critical
Film and Television
- Self-tapes are common
- Clear framing, lighting, and sound are essential
- Follow instructions exactly
Look for casting calls through reputable platforms, theatre companies, film collectives, and agent submissions. Avoid listings that require upfront fees just to audition.
Why Unions Matter (and When to Join)
Acting unions exist to protect performers’ rights, pay, and working conditions.
Pros of joining a union:
- Minimum pay rates
- Health and pension benefits
- Safer working conditions
- Contract protections
Cons of joining too early:
- Fewer available roles
- Limited to union productions
- Harder entry if you lack credits
Union membership does not guarantee work, but it can provide stability once you are booking consistently. Timing matters.
Hiring an Agent: What to Know
A reputable agent helps submit you for roles you may not access on your own. However, not all agents are legitimate.
Red flags include:
- Upfront fees to sign
- Mandatory paid classes or photographers
- Guarantees of work
- Pressure tactics
Legitimate agents earn money through commissions on booked work, not through sign-up costs.
Get Repeat Bookings by Building Relationships
Talent gets you in the room. Professionalism gets you invited back.
People who influence repeat work include:
- Casting directors
- Producers
- Directors
- Assistant directors
- Production coordinators
Show up prepared, take direction well, stay respectful, and be easy to work with. Thank-you notes and professional follow-ups can make a lasting impression.
Treat Acting Like a Business
Many actors overlook the business side of their career. That includes:
- Contracts
- Taxes
- Invoicing
- Legal protections
Bizee supports performers who want to formalize their acting career by:
- Helping form an LLC or business entity
- Handling registered agent services
- Assisting with compliance and paperwork
- Simplifying business setup so you can focus on auditions and bookings
For actors juggling multiple income streams, having a proper business structure can make taxes, contracts, and payments easier to manage.
Becoming an actor requires patience, resilience, and strategy. The path is rarely linear, and success often comes from steady growth rather than overnight recognition. By preparing mentally, managing finances wisely, building a strong portfolio, and treating acting as both an art and a business, you give yourself the best chance to build a sustainable career – one audition at a time.