A couple of weeks ago I had a conversation with my own life/career coach who challenged me to stop “beating around the bush” with you and really challenge you to either get serious about your career or “go home.”
So my question to you is this: Are you lying to yourself about how serious and committed you are to your career? Truth be told, I have no doubt that you think you want to be an actor. However, when it comes to the actual work involved in pursuing your career, I’m going to challenge you to be honest with yourself about how much you really want this.
Why do I say this? Because based on what I’ve experienced in working with my coaching clients over the past five years, as well as the five years I spent as a Hollywood agent, ninety-percent of them [actors] say they want this, but only ten-percent of them actually get down to business and do the work they need to do to make things happen.
If you are someone who calls yourself an actor but has nothing to show for it, here are just a few ways you may be sabotaging your career:
1) You don’t market yourself on a daily basis
2) You don’t take any acting classes
3) You don’t network with other actors
4) You don’t attend any industry events
5) You don’t go on any auditions
6) You don’t read the trades
7) You don’t have current headshots
8) You don’t have a professionally formatted resume
9) You don’t use Facebook
If you want to succeed in this business, you need to get serious about your career … Otherwise, go home and do something else with your life.
Now I’m sure I really ticked some of you off by that last sentence. But let’s get real: you HAVE to be doing all of the things I’ve listed above if you expect to have any success in this business. Here’s why:
1) Sending out headshots every couple of weeks isn’t going to cut it in this business. You need to be marketing yourself on a daily basis, otherwise you’re living in a dream world if you think one headshot submission is going to get you the audition or the job.
2) In order to be honing your craft, you need to be in class on a regular basis. It may take you a while to find the right class for you (i.e. the one you “click” with), but even celebrities go back to class on a regular basis just to tune up their skills.
3) Taking class will also enable you to network with other actors, and quite honestly, this business is less about how talented you are and more about whom you know.
4) Along those lines, you need to be attending industry events (like Actor Fest) on a regular basis. Join organizations like Women in Film so you can get out there and meet people. Again, this business is all about whom you know!
5) Go on auditions! I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve seen actors pass on audition, thinking that they should just be offered the part. However, unless you’re a very well known actor, or one with celebrity status, you need to be auditioning on a regular basis. Not only does it give you the chance to showcase your talent but you also never know what other projects a casting director is working on, for which you may be right.
6) The next thing you need to do is read the trades on a regular basis, because this is where you’ll be able to find our what projects are coming up, what shows have been canceled and the like. Reading the trades is the best way for you to know what’s really happening in the industry.
7) My next question for you is this: How current are your headshots? Honestly, there’s nothing that ticks a casting director off more than an actor who walks into an audition looking nothing like their picture!
8) Your next responsibility is to make sure that your resume is formatted to industry standards, and that you have one resume for theatre and one for film and television. The thing to remember here is that a professionally done resume makes you look like the professional that you profess to be, not an amateur with stars in their eyes.
9) Finally, get on Facebook and utilize it to let people know what you’re up to! Thank God for social media, as it’s a great way to connect with other industry professionals that you can’t meet in person. Casting Directors, Studio and Network executives, agents and managers are all on Facebook, so do yourself a favor and start utilizing this great tool!
Food for Thought: Pursuing a career in the entertainment industry involves a lot of hard work. Remember, this is a business and as such, you need to treat it that way. So, unless your commitment level is 200%, I would encourage you to be honest with yourself about how much you really want to do this. Honestly, it’s okay to quit this business if your heart really isn’t in it. I can’t tell you the number of actors I’ve worked with who, once they were honest with themselves, discovered that the happiness and fulfillment they thought they would get from being an actor was just not there, and so they left the business to pursue different careers and they couldn’t be happier!
Remember: Life is short, so make every moment of yours count!
P.S. Based on all of the requests I’ve received asking for help with the marketing piece of pursuing an acting career, I’ve decided to put together a very affordable program ($9.97/month) to help you, so stay tuned because I’ll be telling you more about it in the very near future!
Copyright © 2010 Sharon Moist, The Industry Coach. All Rights Reserved.
Showing posts with label Acting Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Acting Tips. Show all posts
Monday, October 11, 2010
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Dare to be Yourself
I recently received an email from a business colleague that really annoyed me. The problem wasn't that he sent me an email. The problem was that his email was "pitching" a seminar that he was attending, and he hadn't even written the email himself - someone else wrote it! (The reason I knew that is because I received duplicate copies of the same email from other business colleagues who travel in the same business circle.)
When I asked him about it, he told me that he just wanted to let me know what he was doing with his business. The problem with that is that the email he sent me had absolutely no personalization in it whatsoever. The opening line said "Hey There!" (as opposed to Hi Sharon, Dear Sharon, etc.), and after that it was nothing more than a generic sales pitch, with a personalized link that I could use to register for a seminar (from which he would then earn a commission).
In life, people seem to fall into two categories: leaders and followers. Leaders dare to be different and pave the way for change. Followers don't make waves; maintain the status quo and support the leaders whose visions they subscribe to. You can't have one without the other. However, there are also times when leaders need to maintain the status quo and followers need to make waves. The challenge often comes in discerning which time is which.
Each one of us was born with our own unique gifts and talents, so why are we so eager to be like everyone else?
When it comes to your career, there are times when you do need to conform to industry standards. For example: your headshot and resume need to be 8x10; you need to look like your picture and your website needs to be very easy for casting directors, agents and others to navigate. Beyond that, however, your look is your look, your audition is your audition; your talent is your talent; and so on and so on.
As I said earlier, the fact that this gentleman sent me an email wasn't the issue. The issue was that there wasn't one ounce of him in it!
For the next week, I would like to offer you a challenge, and my challenge is this: I dare you to be yourself every single day, no matter what! Are you up for it? I hope so!
And, for those of you who take me up on my challenge, drop me a note and let me know how it goes!
When I asked him about it, he told me that he just wanted to let me know what he was doing with his business. The problem with that is that the email he sent me had absolutely no personalization in it whatsoever. The opening line said "Hey There!" (as opposed to Hi Sharon, Dear Sharon, etc.), and after that it was nothing more than a generic sales pitch, with a personalized link that I could use to register for a seminar (from which he would then earn a commission).
In life, people seem to fall into two categories: leaders and followers. Leaders dare to be different and pave the way for change. Followers don't make waves; maintain the status quo and support the leaders whose visions they subscribe to. You can't have one without the other. However, there are also times when leaders need to maintain the status quo and followers need to make waves. The challenge often comes in discerning which time is which.
Each one of us was born with our own unique gifts and talents, so why are we so eager to be like everyone else?
When it comes to your career, there are times when you do need to conform to industry standards. For example: your headshot and resume need to be 8x10; you need to look like your picture and your website needs to be very easy for casting directors, agents and others to navigate. Beyond that, however, your look is your look, your audition is your audition; your talent is your talent; and so on and so on.
As I said earlier, the fact that this gentleman sent me an email wasn't the issue. The issue was that there wasn't one ounce of him in it!
For the next week, I would like to offer you a challenge, and my challenge is this: I dare you to be yourself every single day, no matter what! Are you up for it? I hope so!
And, for those of you who take me up on my challenge, drop me a note and let me know how it goes!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Lessons from George Steinbrenner
The first time I met George Steinbrenner was on the Chapel steps at my high school in Indiana. During the course of our conversation, he told me that if I ever needed help with my career I should call him, as he'd be more than happy to help me in whatever way he could.
At that point in time I really had no understanding of who he was in the business world, let alone the world of sports. However, his offer made a huge impression on me, and I've kept in touch with him ever since that meeting.
I realize that George Steinbrenner wasn't perfect (actually none of us are), and that he seemingly had a great number of enemies, based on his reputation as "the boss." However, I want to tell you about the man behind the mask. You see the man I knew was a father, a grandfather and a great humanitarian.
Here are three things I learned from Mr. Steinbrenner over the last 23 years that I'd like to share with you:
Live With Passion. Do you live your life with passion? Or, is everyday just another day on the calendar?
George Steinbrenner did, and his three biggest passions were sports, his family and the New York Yankees (although not necessarily in that order).
One of the things about which he and I communicated was his grandchildren, as one in particular is a very talented performer in their own right and is pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. After this grandchild performed at Radio City Music Hall, George was very excited to see what opportunities might lay ahead for them in the future.
You see, aside from being an astute - and sometimes tough - business man, George Steinbrenner was also a family man. He was a father, and a grandfather, who was extremely proud of his children, and his grandchildren, and he loved them passionately.
Set High Standards. When you wake up in the morning, do you expect the best day possible? Or do you expect the sky to cave in?
If you follow sports at all, then I'm sure you know that Mr. Steinbrenner shelled out a lot of money to get the best players in baseball for his Yankee team. However, when he brought these players onboard, he also let them know that he had very high expectations of them; not only around their playing skills, but also around the issue of their personal appearance and their personal character.
Each member of that team, and in that organization, was/is a New York Yankee and, as such, Mr. Steinbrenner expected them to act in a way that would bring pride to both themselves and the Yankees. As a result, his team has the championships to show for it.
Give Back to Your Community. Are you a "giver" or a "taker" in life? How would your friends describe you?
One of Mr. Steinbrenner's greatest attributes was that he was a big humanitarian who quietly gave back to both the community and the world-at-large.
He put kids he didn't even know through high school, college and graduate school; he gave millions of dollars to schools so that the students attending them would receive the best possible education, and he quietly went about meeting the unmet needs of others, about whom we will probably never hear, because he wanted to give back to others; not because he had to.
Food for Thought: Whether or not you're a fan of George Steinbrenner, or the New York Yankees, is not important at this point in time. Instead, the important thing to remember here is that if we're open to it, we can always learn something from the lives and experiences of others, which, more often than not, we can apply to our own lives if we're willing to do so.
P.S. Want more inspiration like this? Then sign up for my free newsletter, the Industry News Digest today!
At that point in time I really had no understanding of who he was in the business world, let alone the world of sports. However, his offer made a huge impression on me, and I've kept in touch with him ever since that meeting.
I realize that George Steinbrenner wasn't perfect (actually none of us are), and that he seemingly had a great number of enemies, based on his reputation as "the boss." However, I want to tell you about the man behind the mask. You see the man I knew was a father, a grandfather and a great humanitarian.
Here are three things I learned from Mr. Steinbrenner over the last 23 years that I'd like to share with you:
Live With Passion. Do you live your life with passion? Or, is everyday just another day on the calendar?
George Steinbrenner did, and his three biggest passions were sports, his family and the New York Yankees (although not necessarily in that order).
One of the things about which he and I communicated was his grandchildren, as one in particular is a very talented performer in their own right and is pursuing a career in the entertainment industry. After this grandchild performed at Radio City Music Hall, George was very excited to see what opportunities might lay ahead for them in the future.
You see, aside from being an astute - and sometimes tough - business man, George Steinbrenner was also a family man. He was a father, and a grandfather, who was extremely proud of his children, and his grandchildren, and he loved them passionately.
Set High Standards. When you wake up in the morning, do you expect the best day possible? Or do you expect the sky to cave in?
If you follow sports at all, then I'm sure you know that Mr. Steinbrenner shelled out a lot of money to get the best players in baseball for his Yankee team. However, when he brought these players onboard, he also let them know that he had very high expectations of them; not only around their playing skills, but also around the issue of their personal appearance and their personal character.
Each member of that team, and in that organization, was/is a New York Yankee and, as such, Mr. Steinbrenner expected them to act in a way that would bring pride to both themselves and the Yankees. As a result, his team has the championships to show for it.
Give Back to Your Community. Are you a "giver" or a "taker" in life? How would your friends describe you?
One of Mr. Steinbrenner's greatest attributes was that he was a big humanitarian who quietly gave back to both the community and the world-at-large.
He put kids he didn't even know through high school, college and graduate school; he gave millions of dollars to schools so that the students attending them would receive the best possible education, and he quietly went about meeting the unmet needs of others, about whom we will probably never hear, because he wanted to give back to others; not because he had to.
Food for Thought: Whether or not you're a fan of George Steinbrenner, or the New York Yankees, is not important at this point in time. Instead, the important thing to remember here is that if we're open to it, we can always learn something from the lives and experiences of others, which, more often than not, we can apply to our own lives if we're willing to do so.
P.S. Want more inspiration like this? Then sign up for my free newsletter, the Industry News Digest today!
Monday, July 12, 2010
1-800-My-Agent
(From the book: 101 Tips for Actors)
Is there someone in your life whom you talk to on the phone every day? Maybe even three, four or five times a day?
Has there ever been a day when this person called you, and you actually ignored their call because you had already spoken with them so many times that you just needed some space? Have you ever called someone so often that they may have ignored your call?
As an actor, once in a while a situation comes up and there’s a reason for you and your agent to speak five, six, seven or even ten times in one day – especially if he or she is in the middle of negotiating a deal for you. For the most part, however, once a week is more than enough, particularly if the business is slow or there’s nothing going on.
Don’t call your agent or manager just to “talk,” because the more time they spend on the phone talking to you (especially if it’s nothing more than chit chat), the less time they have talking about you with the people who can hire you.
Which would you rather have: a nice, cozy, feel-good conversation with your agent? Or, a nice, juicy part in a fabulous movie or TV show that provides you with a big, fat paycheck, that came about as a result of your agent spending time on the phone promoting you?
The choice is up to you!
BREAKDOWN: You want your agent out there promoting you and talking about you, not with you. So, unless it’s been a while and you need to check in, or you’re returning their call, don’t call your agent 2 or 3 times a day – especially when it’s just to shoot the breeze.
******************
101 Tips for Actors:
Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know
Designed to provide you with practical information for pursuing your acting career, 101 Tips for Actors gives you an insider’s look at how to be successful in this business. To learn more, go to: www.101TipsForActors.com
Is there someone in your life whom you talk to on the phone every day? Maybe even three, four or five times a day?
Has there ever been a day when this person called you, and you actually ignored their call because you had already spoken with them so many times that you just needed some space? Have you ever called someone so often that they may have ignored your call?
As an actor, once in a while a situation comes up and there’s a reason for you and your agent to speak five, six, seven or even ten times in one day – especially if he or she is in the middle of negotiating a deal for you. For the most part, however, once a week is more than enough, particularly if the business is slow or there’s nothing going on.
Don’t call your agent or manager just to “talk,” because the more time they spend on the phone talking to you (especially if it’s nothing more than chit chat), the less time they have talking about you with the people who can hire you.
Which would you rather have: a nice, cozy, feel-good conversation with your agent? Or, a nice, juicy part in a fabulous movie or TV show that provides you with a big, fat paycheck, that came about as a result of your agent spending time on the phone promoting you?
The choice is up to you!
BREAKDOWN: You want your agent out there promoting you and talking about you, not with you. So, unless it’s been a while and you need to check in, or you’re returning their call, don’t call your agent 2 or 3 times a day – especially when it’s just to shoot the breeze.
******************
101 Tips for Actors:
Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know
Designed to provide you with practical information for pursuing your acting career, 101 Tips for Actors gives you an insider’s look at how to be successful in this business. To learn more, go to: www.101TipsForActors.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
How Clear is Your Vision?
Earlier this week I had a session with one of my own coaches, and on our call she said something that I’ve often said before, but had actually forgotten. Her comment was this: “You either create your day by design or default.”
She went on to say that “the more random your vision is, the more random your day will be,” meaning that if I don’t have a clear plan for my day, I’ll spend a lot of time doing miscellaneous things or wasting time, neither of which will most likely help me accomplish my goals.
What about you? Do you have a clear vision about where you’re going in your career, and a clear plan on how to get there? If not, here are three steps you can take to get started:
1) Start with the end result in mind.
In order to have a clear vision of where you’re going when you start something, the best way to proceed is to do so with the end result in mind.
For example, when you decide to take a trip, you usually know where it is that you want to go, and then you make plans to get there.
The same holds true when pursuing a goal. Once you know what it is that you want to achieve (Audition for Casting Director X; Land a role in a Broadway show; Become an agent or manager), you can create a map for yourself, in reverse order, so you know how and where to get started.
2) Break down the steps to your goal.
Once you know EXACTLY what it is that you want to achieve, and how to get started, the next step is to write down all of the steps or actions you need to take to get there.
For example, if your goal is to become a Hollywood agent, some of the steps that you’ll want to take to reach your goal will include: (1) Making sure your resume is current and geared towards working in a talent agency; (2) Contacting the agencies you’re interested in working for and finding out what the application process is for that company; and (3) Contacting everyone you know, letting them know what you’re trying to do and asking them if they know anyone who can help you.
This step is about creating a road map for yourself, from the end, to the beginning, and then simply staying on the path and following it through.
3) Delete the unimportant.
The third step in the process (which is actually the first step in creating a clear vision for yourself), is learning how to eliminate those thoughts, actions and/or behaviors that have nothing to do with your goal.
Often times, when things aren’t moving forward the way we’d like them to, or we can’t control the circumstances in our life, it’s very easy to get caught up in or focused on things that have nothing to do with our goals.
Examples of this include cleaning out files instead of sending out headshots; spending time on Facebook or going through emails instead of writing query letters to agents; watching TV or YouTube videos instead of checking out and going on open auditions listed in Backstage.
When that happens, try asking yourself this question: “Do I need to do this right now, or can I do it later?” Unless what you’re doing is an emergency, or has an immediate deadline, chances are pretty good that you can change your focus and take action towards your goal.
And, if your goal seems too big, or too overwhelming to deal with at that moment in time, then just commit to taking ONE action step. Before you know it, one small step will lead to two steps, then to three steps, and pretty soon you’ll find that you’re already halfway there, towards achieving your goal!
Food for Thought:
One day this week commit to spending sixty minutes to get clear around one goal you have in your life. Then go through the three steps listed above and get started on the path to success!
***
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Actors, Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching and consulting company.
The Industry Coach®
Actors Resource Center®
Industry News Digest
101 Tips for Actors
Facebook
Twitter
She went on to say that “the more random your vision is, the more random your day will be,” meaning that if I don’t have a clear plan for my day, I’ll spend a lot of time doing miscellaneous things or wasting time, neither of which will most likely help me accomplish my goals.
What about you? Do you have a clear vision about where you’re going in your career, and a clear plan on how to get there? If not, here are three steps you can take to get started:
1) Start with the end result in mind.
In order to have a clear vision of where you’re going when you start something, the best way to proceed is to do so with the end result in mind.
For example, when you decide to take a trip, you usually know where it is that you want to go, and then you make plans to get there.
The same holds true when pursuing a goal. Once you know what it is that you want to achieve (Audition for Casting Director X; Land a role in a Broadway show; Become an agent or manager), you can create a map for yourself, in reverse order, so you know how and where to get started.
2) Break down the steps to your goal.
Once you know EXACTLY what it is that you want to achieve, and how to get started, the next step is to write down all of the steps or actions you need to take to get there.
For example, if your goal is to become a Hollywood agent, some of the steps that you’ll want to take to reach your goal will include: (1) Making sure your resume is current and geared towards working in a talent agency; (2) Contacting the agencies you’re interested in working for and finding out what the application process is for that company; and (3) Contacting everyone you know, letting them know what you’re trying to do and asking them if they know anyone who can help you.
This step is about creating a road map for yourself, from the end, to the beginning, and then simply staying on the path and following it through.
3) Delete the unimportant.
The third step in the process (which is actually the first step in creating a clear vision for yourself), is learning how to eliminate those thoughts, actions and/or behaviors that have nothing to do with your goal.
Often times, when things aren’t moving forward the way we’d like them to, or we can’t control the circumstances in our life, it’s very easy to get caught up in or focused on things that have nothing to do with our goals.
Examples of this include cleaning out files instead of sending out headshots; spending time on Facebook or going through emails instead of writing query letters to agents; watching TV or YouTube videos instead of checking out and going on open auditions listed in Backstage.
When that happens, try asking yourself this question: “Do I need to do this right now, or can I do it later?” Unless what you’re doing is an emergency, or has an immediate deadline, chances are pretty good that you can change your focus and take action towards your goal.
And, if your goal seems too big, or too overwhelming to deal with at that moment in time, then just commit to taking ONE action step. Before you know it, one small step will lead to two steps, then to three steps, and pretty soon you’ll find that you’re already halfway there, towards achieving your goal!
Food for Thought:
One day this week commit to spending sixty minutes to get clear around one goal you have in your life. Then go through the three steps listed above and get started on the path to success!
***
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Actors, Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching and consulting company.
The Industry Coach®
Actors Resource Center®
Industry News Digest
101 Tips for Actors
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Think Outside the Box!
This note was posted by a member of the Actors Resource Center and it was so good I wanted to share it with you!
***
This isn't really about goal setting but I thought some of you could benefit from reading it. Its a good metaphor to remind you that there is no one, set in stone path to success in life and success as an actor. Think outside the box.
You are driving down the road in your car on a wild, stormy night, when you pass by a bus stop and you see three people waiting for the bus:
1. An old lady who looks as if she is about to die.
2. An old friend who once saved your life.
3. The perfect partner you have been dreaming about.
Which one would you choose to offer a ride to, knowing that there could only be one passenger in your car?
Think before you continue reading...
This is a moral/ethical dilemma that was once actually used as part of a job application. You could pick up the old lady, because she is going to die, and thus you should save her first.
Or you could take the old friend because he once saved your life, and this would be the perfect chance to pay him back.
However, you may never be able to find your perfect mate again.
YOU WON'T BELIEVE THIS...................
The candidate who was hired (out of 200 applicants) had no trouble coming up with his answer.
He simply answered: 'I would give the car keys to my old friend and let him take the lady to the hospital. I would stay behind and wait for the bus with the partner of my dreams.'
Sometimes, we gain more if we are able to give up our stubborn thought limitations.
Never forget to 'Think Outside of the Box.'
***
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. Her website is: The Industry Coach®
To sign up for her FREE COACHING NEWSLETTER, go to: Industry News Digest
***
This isn't really about goal setting but I thought some of you could benefit from reading it. Its a good metaphor to remind you that there is no one, set in stone path to success in life and success as an actor. Think outside the box.
You are driving down the road in your car on a wild, stormy night, when you pass by a bus stop and you see three people waiting for the bus:
1. An old lady who looks as if she is about to die.
2. An old friend who once saved your life.
3. The perfect partner you have been dreaming about.
Which one would you choose to offer a ride to, knowing that there could only be one passenger in your car?
Think before you continue reading...
This is a moral/ethical dilemma that was once actually used as part of a job application. You could pick up the old lady, because she is going to die, and thus you should save her first.
Or you could take the old friend because he once saved your life, and this would be the perfect chance to pay him back.
However, you may never be able to find your perfect mate again.
YOU WON'T BELIEVE THIS...................
The candidate who was hired (out of 200 applicants) had no trouble coming up with his answer.
He simply answered: 'I would give the car keys to my old friend and let him take the lady to the hospital. I would stay behind and wait for the bus with the partner of my dreams.'
Sometimes, we gain more if we are able to give up our stubborn thought limitations.
Never forget to 'Think Outside of the Box.'
***
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. Her website is: The Industry Coach®
To sign up for her FREE COACHING NEWSLETTER, go to: Industry News Digest
Thursday, August 6, 2009
The Top 10 Mistakes Actors Make When They Sign a Contract
By Jeff B. Cohen, EsQ.
BackStage.com
July 30, 2009
1. They don't read it.
Your primary focus as an actor is your craft. So when you get that part and a deal comes your way, your first instinct may be to sign, sign, sign before the contract evaporates. But take a moment to read it. This thin piece of paper governs the relationship between your money, your art, and your career. In a business filled with puffery, the rubber hits the road with your contract. You worked so hard to get it, so read the damn thing!
2. They don't get the opinion of an attorney.
As an entertainment lawyer, I may be a bit biased here. But whether the contract is with a studio, network, or theater producer, you can be sure those on the other side will have a lawyer advising them. So should you. You may have no leverage to negotiate a better deal. Your agent may have already pushed the agreement as far as it will go. But you still need to read it and discuss it with an attorney. Why? So you'll fully understand the obligations you're agreeing to.
3. They don't check the exclusivity.
Exclusivity provisions can prevent you from performing in various commercials, television shows, films, and even Internet projects. Additionally, they're almost always subject to negotiation.
4. They don't confirm the union status.
The contract should clearly state if the agreement is covered by the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, or Actors' Equity Association. And on an independent film, the actor should call SAG to confirm that the producer really is a SAG signatory.
5. They don't get most-favored-nations language.
The producer may have assured you that all the actors are getting the same salary, the same credit, the same-size dressing room, and so on—this is often referred to as "most favored nations"—but the contract should clearly state that the actor's terms are on a most-favored-nations basis, just so the producer doesn't get cute.
6. They don't get a merchandising clause.
It's very common for producers to provide actors with profit participation with respect to merchandising—5 percent of the net profits associated with any merchandising that uses the actor's image. So ask for it!
7. They don't use a loan-out corporation.
If an actor is grossing in the ballpark of $150,000 annually, he or she may be able to save money in taxes by forming a corporation that contracts directly with the producer for the actor's services. This is commonly referred to as a loan-out corporation. Please consult with your attorney and tax adviser to see whether the benefits outweigh the costs in your situation.
8. They don't understand how long the contract may last.
In the case of a test option agreement for a television show, the broadcaster may have the option to engage the actor at a preset price for a number of years (six years is not uncommon). Make sure you understand how long the agreement may tie up your precious time.
9. They don't get pay-or-play language.
So let's say you don't get along with the director and you're unceremoniously fired for no good reason. What then? Well, if you have pay-or-play language, you still get paid. A pay-or-play provision means that even if the producer no longer uses your services, you still get paid your contractual rate.
10. They don't check the perks.
Who doesn't like perks? They're the fantastic swag bag in the gifting suite that is your deal. Keep your wardrobe, get first-class travel to the premiere of your film and a luxurious dressing room (no less favorable than those of your co-stars, of course), plus a dedicated assistant, a free DVD copy of the project when it's commercially available, a first-class ticket to the location for your significant other…. You work hard. If you have the leverage to get those perks, live it up!
BackStage.com
July 30, 2009
1. They don't read it.
Your primary focus as an actor is your craft. So when you get that part and a deal comes your way, your first instinct may be to sign, sign, sign before the contract evaporates. But take a moment to read it. This thin piece of paper governs the relationship between your money, your art, and your career. In a business filled with puffery, the rubber hits the road with your contract. You worked so hard to get it, so read the damn thing!
2. They don't get the opinion of an attorney.
As an entertainment lawyer, I may be a bit biased here. But whether the contract is with a studio, network, or theater producer, you can be sure those on the other side will have a lawyer advising them. So should you. You may have no leverage to negotiate a better deal. Your agent may have already pushed the agreement as far as it will go. But you still need to read it and discuss it with an attorney. Why? So you'll fully understand the obligations you're agreeing to.
3. They don't check the exclusivity.
Exclusivity provisions can prevent you from performing in various commercials, television shows, films, and even Internet projects. Additionally, they're almost always subject to negotiation.
4. They don't confirm the union status.
The contract should clearly state if the agreement is covered by the Screen Actors Guild, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, or Actors' Equity Association. And on an independent film, the actor should call SAG to confirm that the producer really is a SAG signatory.
5. They don't get most-favored-nations language.
The producer may have assured you that all the actors are getting the same salary, the same credit, the same-size dressing room, and so on—this is often referred to as "most favored nations"—but the contract should clearly state that the actor's terms are on a most-favored-nations basis, just so the producer doesn't get cute.
6. They don't get a merchandising clause.
It's very common for producers to provide actors with profit participation with respect to merchandising—5 percent of the net profits associated with any merchandising that uses the actor's image. So ask for it!
7. They don't use a loan-out corporation.
If an actor is grossing in the ballpark of $150,000 annually, he or she may be able to save money in taxes by forming a corporation that contracts directly with the producer for the actor's services. This is commonly referred to as a loan-out corporation. Please consult with your attorney and tax adviser to see whether the benefits outweigh the costs in your situation.
8. They don't understand how long the contract may last.
In the case of a test option agreement for a television show, the broadcaster may have the option to engage the actor at a preset price for a number of years (six years is not uncommon). Make sure you understand how long the agreement may tie up your precious time.
9. They don't get pay-or-play language.
So let's say you don't get along with the director and you're unceremoniously fired for no good reason. What then? Well, if you have pay-or-play language, you still get paid. A pay-or-play provision means that even if the producer no longer uses your services, you still get paid your contractual rate.
10. They don't check the perks.
Who doesn't like perks? They're the fantastic swag bag in the gifting suite that is your deal. Keep your wardrobe, get first-class travel to the premiere of your film and a luxurious dressing room (no less favorable than those of your co-stars, of course), plus a dedicated assistant, a free DVD copy of the project when it's commercially available, a first-class ticket to the location for your significant other…. You work hard. If you have the leverage to get those perks, live it up!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Coaching Corner: Do You Talk a Good Game?
I recently had a conversation with a potential client who talks a really good game.
The challenge with this person is that I’ve “been there and done that,” so I’m very familiar with the “talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk” syndrome. Up until two years ago, I could talk just about anyone under the table with all of my big plans. Unfortunately, all I did was talk. I never took action on anything. Just ask my former trainer; he’ll tell you just how true that statement really is!
Fortunately, that’s not the case anymore. Now I talk the talk AND walk the walk, and my life has changed 360 degrees because of it.
So what changed? Just one thing: I stopped talking and started walking. (i.e. I actually took the first step on something.)
For example: When it came to exercise, I started working out at the gym for just 10 minutes at a time. (This area is definitely a challenge for me, as I’m not a big fan of exercising, but I’m getting there!) When it came to nutrition, I drank one extra glass of water. (Soda is my preferred beverage of choice!) When it came to getting my office organized, I set the timer for 10 minutes and worked on a pile of papers. (My assistant lives in Canada, so when it comes to keeping my office straight, it’s really up to me!)
See how simple it was? The most important thing was to make each step I took small enough for me to succeed and feel like I had actually accomplished something. After that, momentum built on momentum, and the steps I took got a little bit larger each time, until I was no longer talking, but actually walking!
Now, let’s be honest: The exercise thing and the water thing are still a challenge for me, as I’d still rather sit on the couch reading a good book and drinking a can of soda, than working out, drinking a bottle of water. But, I’m working on it!
I don’t think that most people who talk a good game intend to just talk. I really do think they want to accomplish the things they talk about. I know I did. I’ve also come to realize that the reason I wasn’t getting anywhere was two-fold: (1) I wanted to do it perfectly and (2) If there was too much to do, I became completely overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start.
Finally, after many conversations with one of my own coaches, I realized that perfection was never going to happen. After that, she helped me break things down into bite-size pieces, which gave me a place to start.
So what about you? Do you talk the talk or walk the walk?
If you discover that you’re doing more talking than walking, I would encourage you to take an hour or two and figure out exactly what’s holding you back from actively pursuing your goals. And if you can’t figure it out on your own, talk to your friends or even consider hiring a coach, like myself, to help you.
Then, once you have the answers you need to break through your stuck spots, the sky is the limit on what you can achieve, so go for it!
Copyright © 2009 Sharon Moist. All Rights Reserved.
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, then I'd invite you to subscribe to my free email newsletter, the Industry News Digest. The next issue comes out this Thursday, May 14th and you can subscribe at: http://www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. For more information, or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: http://www.TheIndustryCoach.com
The challenge with this person is that I’ve “been there and done that,” so I’m very familiar with the “talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk” syndrome. Up until two years ago, I could talk just about anyone under the table with all of my big plans. Unfortunately, all I did was talk. I never took action on anything. Just ask my former trainer; he’ll tell you just how true that statement really is!
Fortunately, that’s not the case anymore. Now I talk the talk AND walk the walk, and my life has changed 360 degrees because of it.
So what changed? Just one thing: I stopped talking and started walking. (i.e. I actually took the first step on something.)
For example: When it came to exercise, I started working out at the gym for just 10 minutes at a time. (This area is definitely a challenge for me, as I’m not a big fan of exercising, but I’m getting there!) When it came to nutrition, I drank one extra glass of water. (Soda is my preferred beverage of choice!) When it came to getting my office organized, I set the timer for 10 minutes and worked on a pile of papers. (My assistant lives in Canada, so when it comes to keeping my office straight, it’s really up to me!)
See how simple it was? The most important thing was to make each step I took small enough for me to succeed and feel like I had actually accomplished something. After that, momentum built on momentum, and the steps I took got a little bit larger each time, until I was no longer talking, but actually walking!
Now, let’s be honest: The exercise thing and the water thing are still a challenge for me, as I’d still rather sit on the couch reading a good book and drinking a can of soda, than working out, drinking a bottle of water. But, I’m working on it!
I don’t think that most people who talk a good game intend to just talk. I really do think they want to accomplish the things they talk about. I know I did. I’ve also come to realize that the reason I wasn’t getting anywhere was two-fold: (1) I wanted to do it perfectly and (2) If there was too much to do, I became completely overwhelmed and didn’t know where to start.
Finally, after many conversations with one of my own coaches, I realized that perfection was never going to happen. After that, she helped me break things down into bite-size pieces, which gave me a place to start.
So what about you? Do you talk the talk or walk the walk?
If you discover that you’re doing more talking than walking, I would encourage you to take an hour or two and figure out exactly what’s holding you back from actively pursuing your goals. And if you can’t figure it out on your own, talk to your friends or even consider hiring a coach, like myself, to help you.
Then, once you have the answers you need to break through your stuck spots, the sky is the limit on what you can achieve, so go for it!
Copyright © 2009 Sharon Moist. All Rights Reserved.
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, then I'd invite you to subscribe to my free email newsletter, the Industry News Digest. The next issue comes out this Thursday, May 14th and you can subscribe at: http://www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. For more information, or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: http://www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Monday, March 23, 2009
Coaching Corner: Monthly Acting Tip
(From the book “101 Tips for Actors”)
Tip #91: AEA
Do you know what the letters AEA stand for?
If you do, then the chances are pretty good you’re either a member or that you do a lot of theatre. If you don’t, then you need to know that AEA stands for: Actors’ Equity Association, the governing union for theatre actors.
So many actors today just want to do film, with the hope of becoming a huge star. Television is usually their second choice, but only if they can work on the bigger name shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Army Wives and the like. Unfortunately, many times the idea of doing theatre isn’t even on their radar.
Our agency always looked at the resumes of theatre-trained actors before we looked at those without theatre training or experience. Why? Because theatre trained actors are usually better actors. They’re more disciplined; they understand the craft of acting better, and often times they are more committed to their careers.
In fact, one of our agency’s Tony® Award-winning clients has no interest in doing film or television, even though she’s as cute as a button, is in the most desirable twenty-something age bracket, and has networks and studios pursuing her, wanting to make her a star.
The great part about this young woman’s story is that when she first started out, she was cast as the Understudy to the lead actress in a musical that was premiering in Orange County, California. The week before the show opened, the lead actress was sick one day and this young lady went on in her place. The rest, as they say, is history: the producers fell in love with our client and fired the other actress. After that, the show went to Broadway, and not only did our client receive her first Tony® nomination (against other well-seasoned theatre veterans), she also won!
So if you’re an actor who wants a place to practice your craft, and connect with other actors who are also committed to practicing their craft, then theatre is a great way to accomplish that goal. You’ll meet other actors, make connections, and, sometimes, you may even replace the show’s lead and win a Tony® Award!
BREAKDOWN: Do theatre. Not only will it strengthen you as an actor, it will also make you more appealing to agents and managers.
Copyright © Sharon Moist. All Rights Reserved.
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, then I'd invite you to subscribe to my free, full-length, email newsletter, the Industry News Digest. The next issue comes out this Thursday, March 26th and you can subscribe at: http://www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. For more information, or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: http://www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Tip #91: AEA
Do you know what the letters AEA stand for?
If you do, then the chances are pretty good you’re either a member or that you do a lot of theatre. If you don’t, then you need to know that AEA stands for: Actors’ Equity Association, the governing union for theatre actors.
So many actors today just want to do film, with the hope of becoming a huge star. Television is usually their second choice, but only if they can work on the bigger name shows like Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, Army Wives and the like. Unfortunately, many times the idea of doing theatre isn’t even on their radar.
Our agency always looked at the resumes of theatre-trained actors before we looked at those without theatre training or experience. Why? Because theatre trained actors are usually better actors. They’re more disciplined; they understand the craft of acting better, and often times they are more committed to their careers.
In fact, one of our agency’s Tony® Award-winning clients has no interest in doing film or television, even though she’s as cute as a button, is in the most desirable twenty-something age bracket, and has networks and studios pursuing her, wanting to make her a star.
The great part about this young woman’s story is that when she first started out, she was cast as the Understudy to the lead actress in a musical that was premiering in Orange County, California. The week before the show opened, the lead actress was sick one day and this young lady went on in her place. The rest, as they say, is history: the producers fell in love with our client and fired the other actress. After that, the show went to Broadway, and not only did our client receive her first Tony® nomination (against other well-seasoned theatre veterans), she also won!
So if you’re an actor who wants a place to practice your craft, and connect with other actors who are also committed to practicing their craft, then theatre is a great way to accomplish that goal. You’ll meet other actors, make connections, and, sometimes, you may even replace the show’s lead and win a Tony® Award!
BREAKDOWN: Do theatre. Not only will it strengthen you as an actor, it will also make you more appealing to agents and managers.
Copyright © Sharon Moist. All Rights Reserved.
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, then I'd invite you to subscribe to my free, full-length, email newsletter, the Industry News Digest. The next issue comes out this Thursday, March 26th and you can subscribe at: http://www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company. For more information, or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: http://www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Friday, August 29, 2008
What Are You Afraid Of?
When I was 10 years old, my mom enrolled me in formal swimming lessons. Up until that time, I had always loved the water and was a bit of a fish, but now it was time for me to learn the proper way to swim.
The lessons lasted about 4 weeks and soon after that, the head instructor came to my parents and asked them if he could put me on the swim team. By the end of that summer, I was the regional conference champion in backstroke, and by age 12 I was training for the Olympics.
For the next 7 years, I set swimming records and remained the regional backstroke champion. No one could beat me. Then, at the age of 18 (my last year of eligibility on this particular swim team), as we were driving to the final conference championship, a single thought crossed my mind that had never crossed it before: “What if I lose?”
For 8 years straight I had won this event. And in those 8 years I had never even considered the possibility of losing this race. Now, however, I found myself thinking about the fact that this was my last year on this team; I started getting sad about that fact, and I started thinking about how I would feel if I lost.
It wasn’t a good feeling and I did my best to shake it, as I swam the other 2 individual events in which I was entered (50 yard Butterfly and 100 yard Individual Medley). Then it came time for MY RACE, the 50 yard Backstroke. We got in the pool, the gun went off and the race was on. The first 45 yards of the race were fine, but as I took my final three strokes, the thought of losing once again crossed my mind, and sure enough, my mind took hold of that fear and I lost the race by .01 seconds. Unbelievable!
I think I may have won a couple of other events (I was entered in 5 altogether), but honestly, as far as I was concerned, this was the ONLY race that mattered. And after 8 straight years of being the best swimmer in this event, all it took was one moment of fear, and I now found myself in the spot of “second best.” I was crushed.
The power that fear can have over us can be enormous, if we let it be. The key, however, is that it can only have the amount of power that we give to it. If we give it a lot of power, it can keep us frozen and prevent us from moving forward.
On the other hand, if we acknowledge it, but don’t allow ourselves to dwell on it, and instead choose to continue moving steadily forward, we can get past the fear.
There’s no question about the fact that pursuing an acting career is a scary concept. As actors, some of the fears we face including: being too old; not being good enough; not knowing where to start in pursuing our career; not having an agent; not getting the job; not living in LA or NY in order to pursue a career; blowing the audition; not knowing where to take class; not succeeding; not becoming famous, and the list goes on and on and on.
So, how does you get past the fear? The first step is to acknowledge it, because you can’t deal with it until you actually acknowledge that it’s present.
Secondly, you list it, in order to know exactly what it is. Auditions? Money? Lack of representation? Make a list so you know exactly how many fears, and what fears, you’re dealing with.
Next, you name. That’s right – give each one of your fears a personal name, so that every time it rears its ugly head, you can call it by name. Afraid of not being good enough when you audition for something? Call it George, so that when you’re on an audition and that fear comes up, you can say something like: “Oh, that’s just George, stopping by to say Hello. Hi George! Bye George.”
And finally, create a phrase or mantra for yourself (mine is “Cancel That”) so that anytime you feel fear coming on, you can continue to tell yourself to “cancel that” (or whatever your mantra is), until the fear goes away. It may take 50 times of saying your mantra, but eventually it WILL go away, and as time goes on, it will begin to get easier and easier to eliminate the fearful thoughts that cross your mind.
Dealing with fear will take some work on your part. And while it won’t happen overnight, you CAN find a way to start taking control of your fears and letting them go. You can do this. I know you can. So start today and let me know how it goes!
To Your Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
The lessons lasted about 4 weeks and soon after that, the head instructor came to my parents and asked them if he could put me on the swim team. By the end of that summer, I was the regional conference champion in backstroke, and by age 12 I was training for the Olympics.
For the next 7 years, I set swimming records and remained the regional backstroke champion. No one could beat me. Then, at the age of 18 (my last year of eligibility on this particular swim team), as we were driving to the final conference championship, a single thought crossed my mind that had never crossed it before: “What if I lose?”
For 8 years straight I had won this event. And in those 8 years I had never even considered the possibility of losing this race. Now, however, I found myself thinking about the fact that this was my last year on this team; I started getting sad about that fact, and I started thinking about how I would feel if I lost.
It wasn’t a good feeling and I did my best to shake it, as I swam the other 2 individual events in which I was entered (50 yard Butterfly and 100 yard Individual Medley). Then it came time for MY RACE, the 50 yard Backstroke. We got in the pool, the gun went off and the race was on. The first 45 yards of the race were fine, but as I took my final three strokes, the thought of losing once again crossed my mind, and sure enough, my mind took hold of that fear and I lost the race by .01 seconds. Unbelievable!
I think I may have won a couple of other events (I was entered in 5 altogether), but honestly, as far as I was concerned, this was the ONLY race that mattered. And after 8 straight years of being the best swimmer in this event, all it took was one moment of fear, and I now found myself in the spot of “second best.” I was crushed.
The power that fear can have over us can be enormous, if we let it be. The key, however, is that it can only have the amount of power that we give to it. If we give it a lot of power, it can keep us frozen and prevent us from moving forward.
On the other hand, if we acknowledge it, but don’t allow ourselves to dwell on it, and instead choose to continue moving steadily forward, we can get past the fear.
There’s no question about the fact that pursuing an acting career is a scary concept. As actors, some of the fears we face including: being too old; not being good enough; not knowing where to start in pursuing our career; not having an agent; not getting the job; not living in LA or NY in order to pursue a career; blowing the audition; not knowing where to take class; not succeeding; not becoming famous, and the list goes on and on and on.
So, how does you get past the fear? The first step is to acknowledge it, because you can’t deal with it until you actually acknowledge that it’s present.
Secondly, you list it, in order to know exactly what it is. Auditions? Money? Lack of representation? Make a list so you know exactly how many fears, and what fears, you’re dealing with.
Next, you name. That’s right – give each one of your fears a personal name, so that every time it rears its ugly head, you can call it by name. Afraid of not being good enough when you audition for something? Call it George, so that when you’re on an audition and that fear comes up, you can say something like: “Oh, that’s just George, stopping by to say Hello. Hi George! Bye George.”
And finally, create a phrase or mantra for yourself (mine is “Cancel That”) so that anytime you feel fear coming on, you can continue to tell yourself to “cancel that” (or whatever your mantra is), until the fear goes away. It may take 50 times of saying your mantra, but eventually it WILL go away, and as time goes on, it will begin to get easier and easier to eliminate the fearful thoughts that cross your mind.
Dealing with fear will take some work on your part. And while it won’t happen overnight, you CAN find a way to start taking control of your fears and letting them go. You can do this. I know you can. So start today and let me know how it goes!
To Your Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Do You Trust Your Intuition?
As I mentioned in my opening note to you, even after making the decision to cancel my trip to Chicago two weeks, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I needed to come home. So, I trusted my intuition; booked a ticket and hopped on plane.
Why did I need to make this trip? I have no idea. I just knew that I needed to be here, so here I am.
One of the biggest challenges we often face is the idea of trusting our intuition on something; especially when the “facts” tell us something different. However, as Bill Gates (Founder and Chairman of Microsoft) said, “Often you have to rely on your own intuition.”
So what is your intuition telling you today? I know it’s telling you something!
Maybe it’s to submit to the Casting Director of a movie you just saw and loved. Maybe it’s to pick up a trade you never read. Maybe it’s to try out a new acting class; do a private session with a new teacher; or hire a career coach, such as myself. Maybe it’s to step out of a theatre company that’s not working for you. Or, maybe it’s telling you to look for a new agent.
If you will take a few minutes to stop what you’re doing, take a deep breath and still your mind, your intuition will make itself known to you.
After all, if the third richest man in the world does it, maybe you should try it sometime!
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
Why did I need to make this trip? I have no idea. I just knew that I needed to be here, so here I am.
One of the biggest challenges we often face is the idea of trusting our intuition on something; especially when the “facts” tell us something different. However, as Bill Gates (Founder and Chairman of Microsoft) said, “Often you have to rely on your own intuition.”
So what is your intuition telling you today? I know it’s telling you something!
Maybe it’s to submit to the Casting Director of a movie you just saw and loved. Maybe it’s to pick up a trade you never read. Maybe it’s to try out a new acting class; do a private session with a new teacher; or hire a career coach, such as myself. Maybe it’s to step out of a theatre company that’s not working for you. Or, maybe it’s telling you to look for a new agent.
If you will take a few minutes to stop what you’re doing, take a deep breath and still your mind, your intuition will make itself known to you.
After all, if the third richest man in the world does it, maybe you should try it sometime!
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Do You Know What To Do To Succeed?
In last week’s article, I discussed what it takes to succeed as an actor. This week, I want to look at what you have to DO in order to succeed in your career.
Simply put, your most important job, as an actor, is to market yourself.
In its most basic form, marketing involves:
1) Knowing Your Type
2) Picking Your Target Market
3) Sending Out Your Materials
Are you the best-kept secret in the industry? If you’re not doing anything to market yourself, you probably are!
One of the biggest mistakes most actors make is presuming that once they have an agent, their job is done and they no longer need to market themselves. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Getting an agent is just the first step. And while it can certainly help you get your foot in the door, it doesn’t mean that you will be submitted to all of the people your agent does business with.
Due to the nature of being a talent agent, more often than not your agent is focused on submitting you for projects they feel you’re “right for,” not on marketing you to all of the casting directors they work with. Is that how it should be? No. But that’s how it is.
When I first started as an agent I sat in on a meeting with my boss as he was interviewing a prospective client, and one of the most important things he said was: “Never leave 100% of your career in the hands of someone who ultimately has a 10% interest.”
Every time you book a job, 10% of your salary goes to the agency that represents you (not to your specific agent). Therefore, if 90% of your salary is going to you, then you’ll also want to take responsibility for 90% of your career, and that includes doing something to market yourself every day.
The more you can take control of your career, the more empowered you will feel; the more empowered you feel, the more confident you will be in yourself and your talent; and the more confident you feel, the greater your chance for success.
Are you ready to put on your marketing hat and let the rest of the world know you exist? You can do it, I know you can!
Ready. Set. Go!
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach.com
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips For Actors
Simply put, your most important job, as an actor, is to market yourself.
In its most basic form, marketing involves:
1) Knowing Your Type
2) Picking Your Target Market
3) Sending Out Your Materials
Are you the best-kept secret in the industry? If you’re not doing anything to market yourself, you probably are!
One of the biggest mistakes most actors make is presuming that once they have an agent, their job is done and they no longer need to market themselves. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Getting an agent is just the first step. And while it can certainly help you get your foot in the door, it doesn’t mean that you will be submitted to all of the people your agent does business with.
Due to the nature of being a talent agent, more often than not your agent is focused on submitting you for projects they feel you’re “right for,” not on marketing you to all of the casting directors they work with. Is that how it should be? No. But that’s how it is.
When I first started as an agent I sat in on a meeting with my boss as he was interviewing a prospective client, and one of the most important things he said was: “Never leave 100% of your career in the hands of someone who ultimately has a 10% interest.”
Every time you book a job, 10% of your salary goes to the agency that represents you (not to your specific agent). Therefore, if 90% of your salary is going to you, then you’ll also want to take responsibility for 90% of your career, and that includes doing something to market yourself every day.
The more you can take control of your career, the more empowered you will feel; the more empowered you feel, the more confident you will be in yourself and your talent; and the more confident you feel, the greater your chance for success.
Are you ready to put on your marketing hat and let the rest of the world know you exist? You can do it, I know you can!
Ready. Set. Go!
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach.com
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips For Actors
Monday, April 21, 2008
Do You Have What It Takes To Succeed?
One of the first questions my clients always ask me is: “What does it take to succeed in this business?”
Now, here’s the catch with that question: What It Takes to succeed as an actor, and What You Have To Do to be successful in this business are two different things.
Today we’ll look at what it takes to succeed, which primarily consists of two things:
1) Perseverance
2) A Positive Mental Attitude
Connections can certainly help - but only in helping you get your foot in the door. Then, the rest is up to you: your talent, your training, your knowledge, your persistence and your attitude.
It also helps to have an agent or a manager, but it is not a necessity (at least at the beginning), and agents and managers are not god. Believe me, I was an agent, so I know! The agency where I worked discovered Adam Sandler, Jack Black, Halle Berry, T.R. Knight, Gary Sinise, Tim Robbins and Josh Lucas, just to name a few actors whom you may recognize as having successful careers. We also passed on John Travolta and Russell Crowe, so obviously we don't know everything!
To paraphrase what Sir Anthony Hopkins once told soap opera actor Tony Geary (General Hospital), "success in this business is a 'numbers game' and it's just a matter of waiting for your number to come up." (A good definition of Perseverance!)
Talent also helps, but as one of my own acting teachers once told me, during the pursuit of my career, "... there are many actors out there working who are less talented than you are, and there are many actors out there who are more talented than you are, who are not working. It really comes down to how badly you want it, and how long you're willing to wait for it."
Personally, I didn't have the patience to wait for it (perseverance), and I certainly wasn't willing to share an apartment with 3 roommates and live on macaroni and cheese for months on end (positive mental attitude), so I moved over to production and worked as a development executive at one of the major studios, before becoming an agent.
I truly believe that anyone who wants to succeed can succeed in this business. I've seen it with my own clients who have accomplished their professional goals at an astonishing rate.
Look at World Class athletes. They are the perfect example of having what it takes to succeed. Before a swimmer ever reaches the Olympics, a tennis player ever reaches the French Open, or a golfer ever reaches the British Open, they have spent thousands upon thousands of hours swimming laps, hitting tennis balls or swinging golf clubs, because no one becomes a world class athlete overnight. Instead, they continue to persevere and stay positive, even when the end is nowhere in sight, because they know that each lap, swing or stroke will bring them closer to their goal.
Wanting an acting career is one thing. Persevering through the tough times, and staying positive when the auditions aren't coming and nothing seems to be working, is a whole other ball game.
Are you up for the challenge?
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: TheIndustryCoach.com
Newsletter: IndustryNewsDigest
Book: 101 Tips For Actors
Now, here’s the catch with that question: What It Takes to succeed as an actor, and What You Have To Do to be successful in this business are two different things.
Today we’ll look at what it takes to succeed, which primarily consists of two things:
1) Perseverance
2) A Positive Mental Attitude
Connections can certainly help - but only in helping you get your foot in the door. Then, the rest is up to you: your talent, your training, your knowledge, your persistence and your attitude.
It also helps to have an agent or a manager, but it is not a necessity (at least at the beginning), and agents and managers are not god. Believe me, I was an agent, so I know! The agency where I worked discovered Adam Sandler, Jack Black, Halle Berry, T.R. Knight, Gary Sinise, Tim Robbins and Josh Lucas, just to name a few actors whom you may recognize as having successful careers. We also passed on John Travolta and Russell Crowe, so obviously we don't know everything!
To paraphrase what Sir Anthony Hopkins once told soap opera actor Tony Geary (General Hospital), "success in this business is a 'numbers game' and it's just a matter of waiting for your number to come up." (A good definition of Perseverance!)
Talent also helps, but as one of my own acting teachers once told me, during the pursuit of my career, "... there are many actors out there working who are less talented than you are, and there are many actors out there who are more talented than you are, who are not working. It really comes down to how badly you want it, and how long you're willing to wait for it."
Personally, I didn't have the patience to wait for it (perseverance), and I certainly wasn't willing to share an apartment with 3 roommates and live on macaroni and cheese for months on end (positive mental attitude), so I moved over to production and worked as a development executive at one of the major studios, before becoming an agent.
I truly believe that anyone who wants to succeed can succeed in this business. I've seen it with my own clients who have accomplished their professional goals at an astonishing rate.
Look at World Class athletes. They are the perfect example of having what it takes to succeed. Before a swimmer ever reaches the Olympics, a tennis player ever reaches the French Open, or a golfer ever reaches the British Open, they have spent thousands upon thousands of hours swimming laps, hitting tennis balls or swinging golf clubs, because no one becomes a world class athlete overnight. Instead, they continue to persevere and stay positive, even when the end is nowhere in sight, because they know that each lap, swing or stroke will bring them closer to their goal.
Wanting an acting career is one thing. Persevering through the tough times, and staying positive when the auditions aren't coming and nothing seems to be working, is a whole other ball game.
Are you up for the challenge?
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: TheIndustryCoach.com
Newsletter: IndustryNewsDigest
Book: 101 Tips For Actors
Monday, March 17, 2008
Are You an Open or Closed Book?
Are you open to learning something you already know? They say that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” But what about people? Do you think it’s possible to teach someone something new, even if they feel like they already know it?
My father is a voracious reader, reading the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal every day, along with the stacks of books he has by his bedside. You see, my dad’s of the belief that just one good idea is the worth the price of the book. That philosophy has now stuck with me; thus the stacks of books alongside my own bed, as well! (In fact, I swear that between the two of us, we could open our own library!)
When I first started out in my career, I was always buying whatever acting book caught my eye. Yes, I probably had 2 or 3 others on the same subject already, but if I didn’t have this particular book, I would add it to my collection. Why? Because a new book often gave me a different point of view – especially if it was written from a different author.
For example: Right now I have about 4 or 5 books in my library, from different casting directors, on the casting process. Now some people may say, “Well, wouldn’t one book do the trick?” And my response would have to be “No” because there are hundreds of casting directors out there, all with different thoughts, opinions and processes they use in casting a project. Therefore, if I just read one book, from one casting director, I could (potentially) miss out on information from another casting director that may actually help me land a job. Make sense?
The same situation applies to workshops. I recently attended a workshop on marketing, and as I introduced myself to the two people sitting next to me, I experienced two very different conversations. The gentleman on my right told me that this was the third workshop he had attended this year on marketing, and that he was really enjoying these workshops because even though he knew most of this information already, he had gotten a couple of new ideas that he was now using in his business and these ideas had already doubled his rate of return – in effect more than covering the cost of the workshop and all of his travel expenses.
Next, I spoke with the woman on my left, and she, too, told me that she already knew all of this information. She also told me that the only reason she was there was because it was another tax deduction for her business and it was a great way to play hooky for a few days without having to do any work.
Two very different people with two very different mindsets, and I would be willing to bet that you could guess which one of these people had a successful career and which one did not.
Remember: All it takes is one really great idea to change your life, and when it comes to your acting career, the one question you need to ask yourself is this:
Am I open to learning something I “think” I already know?
Only you can answer that question.
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
My father is a voracious reader, reading the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal every day, along with the stacks of books he has by his bedside. You see, my dad’s of the belief that just one good idea is the worth the price of the book. That philosophy has now stuck with me; thus the stacks of books alongside my own bed, as well! (In fact, I swear that between the two of us, we could open our own library!)
When I first started out in my career, I was always buying whatever acting book caught my eye. Yes, I probably had 2 or 3 others on the same subject already, but if I didn’t have this particular book, I would add it to my collection. Why? Because a new book often gave me a different point of view – especially if it was written from a different author.
For example: Right now I have about 4 or 5 books in my library, from different casting directors, on the casting process. Now some people may say, “Well, wouldn’t one book do the trick?” And my response would have to be “No” because there are hundreds of casting directors out there, all with different thoughts, opinions and processes they use in casting a project. Therefore, if I just read one book, from one casting director, I could (potentially) miss out on information from another casting director that may actually help me land a job. Make sense?
The same situation applies to workshops. I recently attended a workshop on marketing, and as I introduced myself to the two people sitting next to me, I experienced two very different conversations. The gentleman on my right told me that this was the third workshop he had attended this year on marketing, and that he was really enjoying these workshops because even though he knew most of this information already, he had gotten a couple of new ideas that he was now using in his business and these ideas had already doubled his rate of return – in effect more than covering the cost of the workshop and all of his travel expenses.
Next, I spoke with the woman on my left, and she, too, told me that she already knew all of this information. She also told me that the only reason she was there was because it was another tax deduction for her business and it was a great way to play hooky for a few days without having to do any work.
Two very different people with two very different mindsets, and I would be willing to bet that you could guess which one of these people had a successful career and which one did not.
Remember: All it takes is one really great idea to change your life, and when it comes to your acting career, the one question you need to ask yourself is this:
Am I open to learning something I “think” I already know?
Only you can answer that question.
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
Sharon Moist
The Industry Coach®
*********
Website: The Industry Coach
Newsletter: Industry News Digest
Book: 101 Tips for Actors
Monday, January 21, 2008
9 Tell-Tale Signs That You're Being Scammed
Upon request, I recently gave this presentation to a group of actors, and after reading many disturbing posts on a couple of Yahoo Group Forums, realized that it was time to make this information available to everyone.
Please be advised that the information I am giving you is intended for educational purposes only. I am a former agent; not a lawyer, accountant, business advisor or tax expert. Therefore, any decisions made in these areas should be discussed with the appropriate business professional.
In the forthcoming weeks, I will tell you about the “9 Tell-Tale Signs That You’re Being Scammed,” beginning with Number One:
1) Paying for Agency or Management representation BEFORE getting work.
It is illegal for a talent agency or management company to accept money before getting you any work.
A talent agency is the equivalent of a temporary agency. When someone is looking for temporary or full-time employment, they will often go and register with what is called a “temp” agency, which is an outside firm that is hired by a company to help them find employees. The outside firm either pays the temporary agency a set fee for their services, or a percentage of the salary of whomever they hire.
When it comes to talent agencies and/or management companies, the same rule applies. They agree to take you on as a client, either via a signed contract or a “hip pocket” arrangement, meaning there is no contract in place, but there is an “unspoken” agreement of representation on a trial basis. The agency or management company then begins to submit you (i.e. your headshot and resume) to projects for which they feel you are appropriate.
If you book a job that your agent or manager has submitted you for, a deal is negotiated and you are paid for the job, with the agency usually taking 10% of whatever fee is negotiated for you, and the management company taking 10 or 15% of the negotiated fee.
Your agent and/or manager do not get paid in advance – ever. THEY GET PAID AFTER YOU GET PAID. PERIOD
Unfortunately, there are many agencies and management companies doing business who, in addition to taking a percentage of their client’s negotiated rate, also require their clients to pay them a monthly or yearly representation fee.
This is NOT the way it works, regardless of what they tell you, which, by the way, usually goes something like: “This fee covers the cost of your submissions (either via mail or messenger);” “This fee is for office supplies or Xeroxing your resumes;” “This fee covers our overhead costs to represent you,” or some such story.
This is bunch of baloney! If they want to represent you, then the cost of submissions, postage, messenger services, office supplies, Xerox copies, rent and other overhead expenses are THEIR cost of doing business … not yours!
As an actor I realize how vulnerable we are, and how desperate we can sometimes be to have an agent or manager. However, don’t let anyone play on your vulnerability or desperation. With patience and perseverance your time will come and you will find the right person to represent you – someone who will NOT take any money from you until you book a job.
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
P.S. If this information resonated with you, please know that I will
be giving a lot more “insider” tips just like this one at my upcoming
Hollywood 101: The Basics™ Workshops, so stay tuned for more
information on how you can attend!
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company.
As The Industry Coach®, Sharon has clients from all areas of the entertainment industry who represent such projects as: 24, Desperate Housewives, Las Vegas, The Unit, Navy NCIS, and CSI: Miami, among others, as well as companies such as Industry Entertainment and HBO, and talent agencies, including Innovative, Endeavor and the William Morris Agency.
For more information or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: www.TheIndustryCoach.com
To subscribe to her bi-monthly newsletter, the Industry News Digest, visit: www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
To purchase a copy of her book, "101 Tips For Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know" go to: www.101TipsForActors.com
Please be advised that the information I am giving you is intended for educational purposes only. I am a former agent; not a lawyer, accountant, business advisor or tax expert. Therefore, any decisions made in these areas should be discussed with the appropriate business professional.
In the forthcoming weeks, I will tell you about the “9 Tell-Tale Signs That You’re Being Scammed,” beginning with Number One:
1) Paying for Agency or Management representation BEFORE getting work.
It is illegal for a talent agency or management company to accept money before getting you any work.
A talent agency is the equivalent of a temporary agency. When someone is looking for temporary or full-time employment, they will often go and register with what is called a “temp” agency, which is an outside firm that is hired by a company to help them find employees. The outside firm either pays the temporary agency a set fee for their services, or a percentage of the salary of whomever they hire.
When it comes to talent agencies and/or management companies, the same rule applies. They agree to take you on as a client, either via a signed contract or a “hip pocket” arrangement, meaning there is no contract in place, but there is an “unspoken” agreement of representation on a trial basis. The agency or management company then begins to submit you (i.e. your headshot and resume) to projects for which they feel you are appropriate.
If you book a job that your agent or manager has submitted you for, a deal is negotiated and you are paid for the job, with the agency usually taking 10% of whatever fee is negotiated for you, and the management company taking 10 or 15% of the negotiated fee.
Your agent and/or manager do not get paid in advance – ever. THEY GET PAID AFTER YOU GET PAID. PERIOD
Unfortunately, there are many agencies and management companies doing business who, in addition to taking a percentage of their client’s negotiated rate, also require their clients to pay them a monthly or yearly representation fee.
This is NOT the way it works, regardless of what they tell you, which, by the way, usually goes something like: “This fee covers the cost of your submissions (either via mail or messenger);” “This fee is for office supplies or Xeroxing your resumes;” “This fee covers our overhead costs to represent you,” or some such story.
This is bunch of baloney! If they want to represent you, then the cost of submissions, postage, messenger services, office supplies, Xerox copies, rent and other overhead expenses are THEIR cost of doing business … not yours!
As an actor I realize how vulnerable we are, and how desperate we can sometimes be to have an agent or manager. However, don’t let anyone play on your vulnerability or desperation. With patience and perseverance your time will come and you will find the right person to represent you – someone who will NOT take any money from you until you book a job.
To Your Acting Success,
Sharon
P.S. If this information resonated with you, please know that I will
be giving a lot more “insider” tips just like this one at my upcoming
Hollywood 101: The Basics™ Workshops, so stay tuned for more
information on how you can attend!
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company.
As The Industry Coach®, Sharon has clients from all areas of the entertainment industry who represent such projects as: 24, Desperate Housewives, Las Vegas, The Unit, Navy NCIS, and CSI: Miami, among others, as well as companies such as Industry Entertainment and HBO, and talent agencies, including Innovative, Endeavor and the William Morris Agency.
For more information or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit her website at: www.TheIndustryCoach.com
To subscribe to her bi-monthly newsletter, the Industry News Digest, visit: www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
To purchase a copy of her book, "101 Tips For Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know" go to: www.101TipsForActors.com
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Are Your Goals Too Big?
At the beginning of every New Year, I ask my clients to send me their goals for the year. Usually their lists are very long, their goals are very similar and they tend to look something like this:
• Get my SAG card
• Become President of a Studio
• Get an Agent
• Perform on Broadway
• Sell a Screenplay
• Open a Production Company
• Land a TV series.
• And so on, and so on, and so on …
Last year, however, one of my clients only had one rather simple goal: Send out 1 picture a week to 4 soap operas – The Bold & The Beautiful; Days of Our Lives; General Hospital and The Young and the Restless.
When I asked her to tell me more she said that in the past she’d always come up with huge goals that never lasted beyond the end of January. This time, however, she sat down and analyzed what she really wanted, what she was really willing to do and what was realistic for her to do, and she then wrote out her New Years’ goal as follows:
• What she really wanted: Land a part on one of her favorite soap operas
• What she was really willing to do: Send her headshot and resume out, but only to her favorite shows
• What was realistic for her to do: Spend 30 minutes a week marketing herself, which translated into sending out 4 pictures a week.
Sometimes we get so caught up in our goals that we forget to ask ourselves if a particular goal is something we really want or if we’re just pursuing it because all of our friends are or because we’re too scared to go after what we truly want.
We also get so caught up in the size of our goals, that when it comes right down to it, we forget to break them up into bite-size pieces that we can actually manage. My client’s honesty about what she was willing to do enabled her to stay on track because her plan was realistic and doable for her.
Now it’s your turn to ask yourself these same questions:
• What’s the one thing you’d really like to accomplish this year?
• What are you willing to do to accomplish that goal?
• What’s realistic for you to do?
By focusing on just one goal, asking yourself these questions, being honest with your answers and creating a doable plan for yourself that you can follow through on, the chances of you accomplishing your goal have just increased 100%!
To Your Success,
Sharon
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly
sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include
Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a
Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company.
As The Industry Coach®, Sharon has clients from all areas of the
entertainment industry who represent such projects as: 24, Desperate
Housewives, Las Vegas, The Unit, Navy NCIS, and CSI: Miami, among
others, as well as companies such as Industry Entertainment and HBO,
and talent agencies, including Innovative, Endeavor and the William
Morris Agency.
For more information or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit
her website at: www.TheIndustryCoach.com
To subscribe to Sharon's newsletter, go to: www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
• Get my SAG card
• Become President of a Studio
• Get an Agent
• Perform on Broadway
• Sell a Screenplay
• Open a Production Company
• Land a TV series.
• And so on, and so on, and so on …
Last year, however, one of my clients only had one rather simple goal: Send out 1 picture a week to 4 soap operas – The Bold & The Beautiful; Days of Our Lives; General Hospital and The Young and the Restless.
When I asked her to tell me more she said that in the past she’d always come up with huge goals that never lasted beyond the end of January. This time, however, she sat down and analyzed what she really wanted, what she was really willing to do and what was realistic for her to do, and she then wrote out her New Years’ goal as follows:
• What she really wanted: Land a part on one of her favorite soap operas
• What she was really willing to do: Send her headshot and resume out, but only to her favorite shows
• What was realistic for her to do: Spend 30 minutes a week marketing herself, which translated into sending out 4 pictures a week.
Sometimes we get so caught up in our goals that we forget to ask ourselves if a particular goal is something we really want or if we’re just pursuing it because all of our friends are or because we’re too scared to go after what we truly want.
We also get so caught up in the size of our goals, that when it comes right down to it, we forget to break them up into bite-size pieces that we can actually manage. My client’s honesty about what she was willing to do enabled her to stay on track because her plan was realistic and doable for her.
Now it’s your turn to ask yourself these same questions:
• What’s the one thing you’d really like to accomplish this year?
• What are you willing to do to accomplish that goal?
• What’s realistic for you to do?
By focusing on just one goal, asking yourself these questions, being honest with your answers and creating a doable plan for yourself that you can follow through on, the chances of you accomplishing your goal have just increased 100%!
To Your Success,
Sharon
*********
Sharon Moist, also known as The Industry Coach®, is a highly
sought-after professional career coach, whose clients include
Hollywood Power Brokers and A-List Celebrities. After 5 years as a
Hollywood Agent, Sharon left the agency to open her own coaching company.
As The Industry Coach®, Sharon has clients from all areas of the
entertainment industry who represent such projects as: 24, Desperate
Housewives, Las Vegas, The Unit, Navy NCIS, and CSI: Miami, among
others, as well as companies such as Industry Entertainment and HBO,
and talent agencies, including Innovative, Endeavor and the William
Morris Agency.
For more information or to work with Sharon directly, you can visit
her website at: www.TheIndustryCoach.com
To subscribe to Sharon's newsletter, go to: www.IndustryNewsDigest.com
Sunday, December 9, 2007
101 Tips for Actors
Hi Everyone!
After a very long incubation period, I wanted to let you know that I have finally finished my book, "101 Tips for Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know," and it's now for sale.
The book is for all actors, from the novice to the professional, and is designed to give them insider secrets about this business, in order to help them move forward in their careers.
The website for the book is: www.101TipsForActors.com
I’m even offering FREE HOLIDAY SHIPPING to family and friends … as well as friends of friends! So, if you know anyone who is pursuing an acting career, regardless of their skill level, I would ask you to please forward this message on to them!
The SPECIAL HOLIDAY CODE to receive free shipping is: 121507 and is good on all orders placed by midnight on Saturday, December 15th.
Here's hoping that 2008 is your most prosperous year, yet!
Happy Holidays,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
After a very long incubation period, I wanted to let you know that I have finally finished my book, "101 Tips for Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know," and it's now for sale.
The book is for all actors, from the novice to the professional, and is designed to give them insider secrets about this business, in order to help them move forward in their careers.
The website for the book is: www.101TipsForActors.com
I’m even offering FREE HOLIDAY SHIPPING to family and friends … as well as friends of friends! So, if you know anyone who is pursuing an acting career, regardless of their skill level, I would ask you to please forward this message on to them!
The SPECIAL HOLIDAY CODE to receive free shipping is: 121507 and is good on all orders placed by midnight on Saturday, December 15th.
Here's hoping that 2008 is your most prosperous year, yet!
Happy Holidays,
Sharon
www.TheIndustryCoach.com
Saturday, October 20, 2007
My Book is Done!
Just a quick note to let you know that my book, 101 Tips For Actors: Secrets for Success Every Actor Must Know, is finally done!
So mark your calendars for November 18th, because that is the official date of the book launch and you definitely WON'T want to miss it!
Inside 101 Tips for Actors, you'll learn:
- The Easiest Way to Get Your SAG Card
- The Best Time to Visit Your Agent
- What Happens When Your Agent Runs Out of Your Pictures
- Who the "Real" Hollywood Players are
- And much, much more!
After working as an actor and spending 5 years as an agent, I KNOW what it takes to be a successful actor, and now I'm ready to share it with you!
Don't forget: November 18th is the day when you, too, can find out all the insider secrets that will help you take your career to the next level!
101 TIPS FOR ACTORS: SECRETS FOR SUCCESS EVERY ACTOR MUST KNOW
I can't wait to share my secrets with YOU!
Sharon
So mark your calendars for November 18th, because that is the official date of the book launch and you definitely WON'T want to miss it!
Inside 101 Tips for Actors, you'll learn:
- The Easiest Way to Get Your SAG Card
- The Best Time to Visit Your Agent
- What Happens When Your Agent Runs Out of Your Pictures
- Who the "Real" Hollywood Players are
- And much, much more!
After working as an actor and spending 5 years as an agent, I KNOW what it takes to be a successful actor, and now I'm ready to share it with you!
Don't forget: November 18th is the day when you, too, can find out all the insider secrets that will help you take your career to the next level!
101 TIPS FOR ACTORS: SECRETS FOR SUCCESS EVERY ACTOR MUST KNOW
I can't wait to share my secrets with YOU!
Sharon
Friday, June 8, 2007
Your Acting Career
The first time one of my acting clients told me that she doesn't watch TV, I almost fell out of my chair!
We'd been working together for about 4 months, planning strategies for her career, and I (obviously) made the mistake of assuming that she watched television, especially since she told me that she wanted to land a series regular gig on a particular show on ABC. When she told me that even though she wanted to land a job on "show X," she didn't watch that show on a regular basis, I almost dropped her as a client. All I kept thinking was "How can you not watch it?"
After that conversation, I really had to wonder how much she wanted to be an actor and how dedicated she was to her acting career. Or, was she just talking a good game? It was only at that time when I discovered how many of my other clients were in the same boat.
As The Industry Coach and President of the Actors Resource Center, one of the things I do is work with actors to help them move forward in their careers. My clients have included those just starting out in the business, as well as those on Hollywood's A-List, and the truth of the matter is this: no matter where you are in your career, if you really want to be successful you need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
If you want to be a television actor, you need to watch television. If you want to do movies, you need to watch movies. And, if you want to do theatre (and every actor should do theatre at some point in their career - it will help them with their craft), then you need to go to the theatre and read plays on a regular basis.
Today is a new day ... What are YOU going to do for your career?
Cheers,
Sharon
We'd been working together for about 4 months, planning strategies for her career, and I (obviously) made the mistake of assuming that she watched television, especially since she told me that she wanted to land a series regular gig on a particular show on ABC. When she told me that even though she wanted to land a job on "show X," she didn't watch that show on a regular basis, I almost dropped her as a client. All I kept thinking was "How can you not watch it?"
After that conversation, I really had to wonder how much she wanted to be an actor and how dedicated she was to her acting career. Or, was she just talking a good game? It was only at that time when I discovered how many of my other clients were in the same boat.
As The Industry Coach and President of the Actors Resource Center, one of the things I do is work with actors to help them move forward in their careers. My clients have included those just starting out in the business, as well as those on Hollywood's A-List, and the truth of the matter is this: no matter where you are in your career, if you really want to be successful you need to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
If you want to be a television actor, you need to watch television. If you want to do movies, you need to watch movies. And, if you want to do theatre (and every actor should do theatre at some point in their career - it will help them with their craft), then you need to go to the theatre and read plays on a regular basis.
Today is a new day ... What are YOU going to do for your career?
Cheers,
Sharon
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