What To Expect in the Very Beginning of Your Career

If you have little to no experience in entertainment, you may be wondering what you can do to get started and begin building your resume. Of course, if you don’t have any prior experience, your options will be more limited. But as you begin to build a reputable base, more and more opportunities will open up. So, above all, it’s important to stay focused and accept positions that may not be your end-all dream job but will act as stepping stones in the right direction.

The Balance suggests taking temporary entertainment positions in the very beginning. This includes considering taking on grunt work and working for little to no pay in some cases. Interning at production studios or agencies is a great way to get your foot in the door, which should be your ultimate goal. You could also consider taking on some volunteer work where you want to ultimately end up.

While you’re trying to land your first gig, make sure to stay active in whichever gig you’re most interested in. This means signing up for workshops, attending improv groups, or taking on time-for-print photo shoots. Whatever you choose to become a part of, network and save contact information. Everyone you meet is potentially influential to your career.

If you’re hoping to start off in film, you might consider becoming an independent producer. This will allow you to gain some hands-on experience in a variety of positions as well as meet many industry players along the way. If you’re hoping to become the next supermodel, building your portfolio is an important place to start. The stepping stones you choose to take will depend on the specific direction you’re interested in heading.

Of course, it’s much easier to start your entertainment career in a locale that is in close proximity to where the action happens. If you don’t already live near an entertainment hotspot and have the means to relocate, doing so will make your path much easier. Living within walking distance of the area’s auditions and entertainment scene will keep you right in the middle of all of the action and you’ll be more likely to get noticed while you’re putting in the necessary groundwork.

Above all, confidence is key. You will likely not be offered your dream job when you’re trying to get your start. This doesn’t mean you’re not capable or you lack talent. Almost everyone, even Hollywood’s top players, have to work their way up from the bottom. You must maintain confidence in yourself and your skills to stay motivated to continue when you’re in an entry-level job. Patience is key, and practice makes perfect. Persistence will pay off!

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