How can aspiring actors grow their career and start landing roles?

Getting started can feel like a massive, confusing and daunting task. So, lets explore a few things that any aspiring actor can do to help ensure a strong start.

We are often asked if we can guarantee work at the end of our courses. There is lots of work out there, but the truth is, if you're an unknown just starting out you can't just expect the phone to ring. You have to put the work in!  When we have seen people struggle to find roles its often because they aren't really dedicating time to marketing and promoting theselves, or because they have no portfolios or demo reels.  People can't hire what they can't see and they won't call who they don't know.

But, 'put the work in' isn't really a very helpful piece of advice if you don't know where to start. Where do you put the work in? How do you do that? What matters as you do?  It's confusing and often a bit daunting, especially if we are new to it all. That's, we wrote this article to give you some helpful advice and tips on getting started.  

As an aspiring actor just starting your career, getting noticed by industry professionals and finding work opportunities can be a daunting task. However, with the right mindset and approach, it is possible to promote yourself effectively and land your dream role. Here are some tips and advice to help you navigate the early stages of your acting career.

1. Develop Your Craft
   Before you start promoting yourself to casting directors and agents, it is essential to ensure that you have honed your craft. Attend acting classes, workshops, and seminars to learn new skills and techniques that will help you stand out from the crowd. Practice your acting regularly, whether it's by performing in community theater productions, student films, or creating your own content. The more you work on your craft, the better you'll become, and the more confident you'll feel about promoting yourself.
   
   
2. Create a Professional Portfolio
   Your portfolio should include your headshot, resume, and demo reel. A headshot is a professional photograph of your face that casting directors and agents will use to identify you. Your resume should highlight your acting experience, training, and special skills. A demo reel is a short video showcasing your acting abilities, which you can use to give potential employers a taste of your range.
   
   
3. Network, Network, Network!
   Networking is crucial in the entertainment industry, so get out there and start making connections. Attend industry events, film festivals, and other gatherings where you can meet other actors, casting directors, agents, and producers. Join acting groups and associations, and participate in online forums and social media groups dedicated to actors. The more people you know, the more opportunities you will have to be seen and heard.
   
   
4. Audition Frequently
   Auditioning is a vital part of an actor's career, so it's important to audition frequently. Check casting websites, industry publications, and social media pages for casting calls that fit your profile. Submit your portfolio and showreel to casting directors and agents, and attend open auditions whenever possible. Remember that every audition is an opportunity to showcase your talent, even if you don't get the part.
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5. Be Persistent and Patient
   The entertainment industry can be tough, and it may take some time before you land your dream role. Don't get discouraged if you don't hear back from casting directors or agents right away. Keep submitting your portfolio and attending auditions, and don't be afraid to follow up with people you've met or worked with in the past. Persistence and patience are essential qualities for success in the acting industry.

Breaking into the acting industry does require effort, dedication, and a fair amount of perseverance. You can't just give up after your first "No thanks" or because you don't hear back from someone.

Promote yourself effectively by developing your craft, creating a professional portfolio, networking, auditioning frequently, and being persistent and patient. With these tips and advice, you'll be well on your way to a successful acting career!