TIPS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

I’ve identified as a “person in the arts” since I was very young. Looking back at all the parts I played, the shows I was in, the acting and singing and music lessons, it seemed to fly by. One day you’re waiting for the high school play cast list to go up, the next you’re thinking about mortgages and salaries and all of the inevitable adult things that become a part of all our lives. These days, I’m more grateful than I can say that there is work to be had for me. There were years I doubted it. There were decades that I considered, possibly deep in the recesses of my mind, pursuing other things. There were times I came close to jumping in and trying something else. But I always reverted to my initial career instincts and stayed the perilous and certainly uncertain course. And now, in my early 50’s, I can almost confidentially say that I made the right decision (see how that nagging uncertainty still rears its ugly head…” ALMOST say…”)?

In this stage of life, I am sometimes contacted by friends’ children who are now the age I was when I almost aborted my mission. They ask for guidance. They hope I might connect them with potential employers or offer some bit of wisdom that will steel them for the difficult years ahead. And, as I answer each one, it occurs to me that perhaps some of my thoughts might help young people (or artists of any age) keep the flame burning. So, here they are:

-       Think of yourself as a business. Thoughtfully create your website, social media accounts and email signatures to represent what you do and the work you’re looking for. Although we’re artists, we must be accessible to those who might not really understand what we do, why we love it and why we would be an asset to work with.

-       Write back! Even if you are rejected for a role, an opportunity or position, thank the powers that be for their time and consideration. Being in the arts means building a network. People like to work with kind people, so have your manners take precedence over your disappointment. This could create a professional relationship and lead to an opportunity down the line.

-       Check to see what is online about you. Keep what you share to a professional and curated minimum, prioritizing your art. Make an effort to own your Google Knowledge Panel, which controls how you are perceived online.

-       When your work is being featured, whether you’re a painter or an actor, let people know about it, clearly and concisely. It seems as though many artists are hesitant to let friends, family and followers know how their work can be seen, where it can be seen and how to procure tickets, etc.

-       Don’t only rely on social media to update your followers about shows or productions. Create an email list of friends, supporters, followers and colleagues and offer information about what you’ve recently done and what you’re currently working on. Don’t send too many emails, though. Maybe 3-4 times a year. Keeping in touch might inspire someone to hire you.

-       Maintain relationships with college friends, co-stars, colleagues and professional acquaintances. You never know who is going to be a resource for your work in the years to come. Also maintain a relationship with your college, university or art school.

-       Stay curious and dig deeper into your art. Take classes, check out tutorials online, read books, whatever. Nobody will hand you a thing. You have to do the work.

-       Occasionally toot your own horn…humbly. When you’ve done something worthwhile with your career, share what you’ve done. The entertainment industry is competitive and difficult. If you’ve won an award, citation or produced a project that has garnered praise, let your network know. You’re entitled.

-       Finally, and I can’t preach this enough: Self-produce. Whether it’s a showing of your artwork, producing a table read or a staged reading, start being the gatherer. Spearhead projects. How can people know who you are as an artist if you don’t produce art? When a project is completed, you’ll have more than that project – you’ll have gone on a creative journey that will help to define your artistry.

The entertainment industry is among the hardest in the world. Some will always seem to have an upper hand, being offered opportunities perhaps easier than others. Your inner fortitude will be challenged. Your self-esteem can take a dive. But don’t forget that there are things you can do (see above list). Don’t forget why you love what you do. And remember: you don’t need permission to do your art, you just need to keep on doing it.

P.S. To all of those looking for inspiration, please contact me and I will send you a FREE copy of my book, The Self-Taught Producer.