Following on from Part 1, it’s also important to look at the attributes you need to be successful. You absolutely must stay on top of your admin! The amount of times I’ve seen talented people fail at the last hurdle because they weren’t organised.

• Save copies of projects

• Keep track of credits

• Update your showreel / maintain your portfolio

• Know where your documents, contracts and files are

Invoices, agreements, contracts and administration might not be the reason you wanted a career in film, but being organised means that when an opportunity appears, you’re able to respond to it immediately. You don’t want somebody asking for your showreel on Tuesday and still be editing one together on Friday.

Never assume you’ve finished learning; technology changes, platforms change, audiences and trends change, even the way content is produced and distributed changes. Following on from my point in Part 1 about doing more outside of the classroom; your education therefore shouldn’t end when your course does.

You want to remain curious because this is what compels you to take courses and watch tutorials, learn new software packages, experiment with free tools. Curiosity also extends to keeping an eye on what’s happening across the industry.

You don’t necessarily need to become an expert in every department, but understanding what the people around you do can make you better at your own job and better at collaborating with them. As I’ve worked in many different departments within the film industry (in pre and post production), I feel they have all contributed to me becoming a better performer.

Another thing is adaptability matters; as mentioned earlier about changes, the platforms and workflows you learn today may not be the one you’re using ten years from now.

Understanding that talent just isn’t enough. Of course it matters, but it’s essential to have other traits such as:

• Being punctual

• Doing what you said you would do

• Meeting a deadline

• Being able to work with other people when they’re tired or if something has gone wrong, especially if you’re tired yourself

It’s not just about technical ability, but also resilience, patience, curiosity, creativity, adaptability, work ethic, communication and collaboration all matters.

Productions often experience problems; locations change, equipment fails (or someone forgot to charge the batteries!), unfavourable weather, someone becomes unavailable, a shot doesn’t work, a deadline being brought forwards, the list goes on. If you’ve read my other articles. then you’ll know that I emphasise the importance of being able to remain calm, think critically and find solutions makes you valuable.

Doing things outside of the classroom can often expose you to those issues, which allows you to be able to respond well under pressure.

As mentioned earlier about your reputation, people not only remember the person who helped solve the problem, they also remember the person who created one. Your reputation isn’t something that suddenly appears once you’re successful; you’re building it from your earliest projects.

Dealing with rejection

Rejection really is part of a creative career; you won’t get every job, you won’t get a response to every email and not every film you submit to a festival will get selected. Every email won’t receive a response. You absolutely need a thick skin in this industry, which is why it’s important to treat rejection as redirection; not now never means not ever.

Not everything is personal either; sometimes you’re may not have been the right fit, there wasn’t enough budget, or they hired someone they already knew. So keep improving, keep creating and keep meeting people

…and of course, keep some perspective.

Don’t Quit Your Day Job

Certainly not yet. There can be a temptation, especially when you’re enthusiastic about a creative career or opportunity, to believe that commitment means going all in immediately. There is nothing shameful about having another job while establishing yourself. I worked full time, part time, evening and weekend jobs concurrently, like many others do. It’s a means to an end; in fact, removing some of the financial pressure can give you the time required to make sensible career decisions rather than accepting absolutely anything because you desperately need the money.

Taking care of yourself

Building a sustainable career can take time, so please take your time and look after yourself whilst you’re doing it.

This industry often involves uncertainty, rejection, long days and periods of intense pressure. Ambition is important, but so is knowing when to stop, breathe and reset. Your career matters, but it isn’t worth destroying yourself in pursuit of it. The final advice in my original lecture was deliberately simple; take good care of yourself. You can only donate money if you have money; you can only really give yourself if you first have yourself, so put yourself first.

You can’t control exactly when an opportunity will arrive. You can only control how prepared you are when it does. You can’t wing it (and those who do who get the job get found out eventually); you don’t rise to the occasion, you fall to the level of your training and preparedness.

The route from passion to picture is rarely straight. There will be diversions, quiet periods and rejection along the way, so keep creating anyway. Ultimately, the objective isn’t simply to break into the industry, but rather to build the skills, relationships, reputation and resilience that allow you to stay in it.

This is based lecture slides I wrote specifically for Media students who are trying to get their foot in the door.

There is no single route into the film and media industry. Ask ten people working in film how they got their first opportunity and you may well get ten completely different answers. Some studied film or media at university, whereas others started making videos with friends. Some got work experience at a production company, whereas others volunteered, knew somebody who knew somebody, or simply sent an email at exactly the right moment.

That uncertainty can make starting a career in the industry feel daunting, so we’ll go through some things in this article to help make things seem more manageable.

• You don’t need to wait for somebody to give you permission to begin

  • Whether you want to work in directing, cinematography, editing, sound, production, animation, design, writing or another role behind the camera, there are things you can be doing now to improve your skills, build your body of work and give people a reason to hire you.

  • Don’t Wait for work to start working

  • One of the most useful things you can do at the beginning of your career is to create things

  • Start a YouTube channel, make short films, animations, design posters, even record a podcast, or experiment with different styles, genres and formats on social media.

Keep in mind that your early work doesn’t have to be brilliant. In fact, it probably won’t be. That’s part of the process; if you’re constantly working and progressing, looking back at your early work can often show you just how far you’ve come.

Creating regularly gives you an opportunity to experiment without the pressure of a professional production. You discover what you’re good at, what you enjoy and where the gaps in your knowledge are, which is your responsibility to patch.

I can’t state enough the importance of building a portfolio and providing that evidence of your interest as opposed to just declaring it; there is a real difference between saying that you want to be an editor and saying that you want to be an editor, whilst then proceeding to show the last few things you’ve edited.

Of course, your online presence can become part of that evidence too. Posting work and documenting your progress gives somebody the opportunity to see what you’re capable of before you’ve ever met them (I know so many people who got work because of their body of work, so you never know who may stumble upon your channels. I can attest to this from a personal perspective too). It’s also important to learn how different platforms work, specifically metrics and insights, which can teach you something about your audience and how people respond to your content.

I’ve often stated in interviews that when you’re not working in your craft, work on your craft. This doesn’t mean every waking hour needs to become productive, it means you don’t have to wait until somebody is paying you before you start becoming better at what you want to do. Put in the work now because you never rise to the occasion; you fall to the level of your training.

If you’re studying film, media or a related subject, your course gives you an environment in which to learn, but don’t allow your course to become the boundary of your experience. It’s important to get out of the classroom and make and do things.

Find the people around you who are equally enthusiastic and make something together. If somebody needs help with their short film, offer it. If somebody is putting together a shoot at the weekend, ask if they need another pair of hands. Not every project needs to be your project; helping somebody else can give you practical experience, another credit and perhaps most importantly, another relationship. Additionally, you may have to wear lots of different hats, which not only gives you experience in another skillset, but also the ability to handle yourself under pressure, whilst juggling multiple things at once.

In addition to social media, film festivals, competitions and online challenges can provide deadlines and motivation as well as opportunities for your work to be seen. Selection, recognition or an award can strengthen a portfolio, but even entering can teach you something about presenting your work professionally. At the same time, keep your portfolio up to date.

Networking

The film industry is intensely collaborative. A production involves people with different skills solving hundreds of problems together, often under significant time pressure. Learning how to work with other people is therefore not something separate from learning your craft. It’s part of your craft.

Look beyond your immediate circle as well; join filmmaking groups, online communities and local media organisations, volunteer at events or festivals and get involved with other students. Every project puts you around more people and every person potentially introduces you to another project. This is how a network begins.

Of course, networking is essential, but it doesn’t always mean walking into a room full of strangers and desperately trying to impress them. Instead, networking is really about building professional relationships. I would advise attending workshops, screenings, festivals and industry talks, where you can speak to people and ask them about what they do. You can also connect with your peers as well as people who are already established.

You never know, but your classmate today could be a producer, director, editor or cinematographer recommending you for a job five years from now.

One thing I would emphasise is not to approach every interaction by immediately asking what they can do for you. Instead, take an interest in them; help where you can, stay in contact, support other people’s projects, most importantly, be somebody people enjoy working with.

You will have heard the saying, ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’, but it’s also who knows you; when somebody needs a crew member, they are unlikely to conduct an exhaustive search of every talented person in the country. Instead, they ask ‘who do we know?’

I would also advise proactively reaching out, especially if you have a body of work behind you. Research production companies, agencies, post-production houses, studios and professionals doing the kind of work that interests you.

You don’t necessarily have to ask for employment either; opportunities could include:

• Shadowing someone for a period of time

• Asking for advice

• Any work placements or internships available

The worst outcome of many of these emails is simply that you don’t receive a reply, which can be disappointing, but it doesn’t leave you any worse off than you were before sending it.

Bear in mind that you don’t need to be looking at companies within the film industry to get opportunities; a lot of businesses will have a marketing department, where your skills may be directly relevant to the media they produce, where you can learn and gain more invaluable experience.

Performing on set is as much about mindset, awareness and professionalism as it is about skill. Here are some key tips to keep in mind, which are things I teach in my workshops:​

• Rest well beforehand. A good night’s sleep makes a huge difference, not just in your performance, but also in your mood and ability to work well with others.

• Manage fatigue and nerves. Slow your breathing to calm your nervous system to return it back to what it is when it’s relaxed. Fatigue and anxiety can affect both your performance and your attitude, so take a moment to centre yourself before action.

• Safety first. Always prioritise safety for yourself and everyone around you; check your equipment, communicate clearly and never take unnecessary risks to ‘look cool’. Remember, a safe performance is always a professional performance.

• Further to this, make sure you bring your pads with you; be aware that sometimes you may have to lend them to other performers or even the actors themselves.

• Intensity over speed. Slow down your movements slightly on set; your adrenaline will naturally speed them up. Controlled, deliberate movements not only reduce injury risk but also allow editors to make the shots look dynamic. Wide, clean actions read better on camera than rushed movements; when you slow it down, you can emphasise more on your performance and make those movements more aesthetic, which if needed, the editor can ramp up in speed; if you go too quickly, there is a tendency to cut the movements short, which will not look good.

• Your reactions must be proportionate to actions. Remember that screen fighting is still acting; don’t oversell hits or falls. Screen fighting is acting and your reactions should match the force and context of the scene.

• Expect multiple takes and direction. Be patient and adaptable. Directors and stunt coordinators may ask for small adjustments, so embrace feedback and refine your performance each time. It’s rarely personal, so make sure you don’t receive feedback too subjectively; there is a lot of pressure on set so the tone in which feedback is delivered to you may be more blunt, so keep that in mind,

• Be aware of the camera. Understanding angles and framing helps your movements sell, ensuring that punches, falls, and reactions look convincing without compromising safety.

• Focus amidst distractions. Between takes, there will be many things going on and many people around to make adjustments to you; hair and makeup, costume, audio, an assistant bringing you something to drink, the stunt coordinator/2nd unit director coming over to give you notes, so learn to filter out distractions and stay mentally present. Take this into account now so that you can drown out the noise and listen to what you need to do differently for the next take

• Stay hydrated and warm. Setups can take time, so use breaks wisely to maintain energy and reduce the risk of injury.

• Ask questions when unsure. Speaking up shows responsibility and professionalism; it’s far better to clarify than to risk mistakes or unsafe actions.

• Know your limits. Physical and mental self-awareness is key. Pushing past your limits can lead to injury or accidents. Further to this, always keep in mind that mental exhaustion can affect how you interact with others. Be aware of redirected aggression.

• Remember to pace yourself; it’s too easy to become complacent when you’re tired or frustrated, where your standards may drop. It’s important to realise that you may come to regret complacency when the final cut gets released and you know deep down that you could have done better.

• Punctuality, reliability, and respect. Arriving on time, ready and respectful sets a strong foundation for lasting relationships on set. As a stunt performer, you’re often taking hits, reactions, or falls and not ‘winning’ in the scene, always so keep your ego in check.

• Make a good impression. Skills will get you noticed, but your attitude and professionalism often get you hired again. Being courteous, approachable, and easy to work with can open doors just as much as your technical ability. People remember those who make the set a better place to work

​​​Booking stunt jobs is a big deal; in this industry, it can be very much up and down, so don’t be disheartened. Keep that dream alive; not now doesn’t mean not ever! Keep your head down for the grind but your chin up for a healthy mind. The world’s big enough for everyone to have what they want to achieve and more; the next big thing is just not on your radar yet. Remember, when you’re not working in your craft, you should always be working on your craft, so that you’re ready for when the next job calls. Stay patient, stay committed and stay humble; your persistence and attitude will open doors just as much as your talent.

Something I get asked for is tips on being a stunt performer. These are things I feel all performers should be doing and keeping in mind. This has been somewhat of a mind dump, so I’ll probably add to this at some point. So without further ado, I’ll just get stuck in:

• Start with foundations

  • Let’s talk Martial Arts. First of all, Martial Arts splits into 3 main categories; fighting, health and performance. For performance, there is an emphasis on holding poses, elongating those movements and maintaining a safe distance from your scene partners while still selling the hit. That said, you still want to train broadly. Boxing and kickboxing are great for learning how to throw convincing punches and kicks, but don’t stop there. Add more strings to your bow by exploring weapons from different disciplines. You don’t need to be an expert in all of them, but having a working understanding of various combat systems means you’ll never be starting from scratch when you’re on a job. Screenfighting classes are invaluable, but I personally feel that real Martial Arts training makes a huge difference. When you’re sparring for real, you’re under pressure, where learning to stay composed under pressure is crucial, not just in the stunts but in life in general. It builds fight IQ, improves your reactions and gives your performance a realism that can’t be faked. Not to mention, it’s exceptionally difficult to appropriate movement maturity; if the character you play is an expert and you as the stunt performer are learning the movements from scratch without a Martial Arts background, it really does show. So keep your Martial Arts training sharp, varied but consistent.

  • Strength and conditioning are key parts of your foundation as a stunt performer. This is a physical profession and your body is not only your tool, it’s also part of the visual storytelling. Depending on the types of roles or doubling jobs you’re aiming for, physical aesthetics can make a real difference. Incorporate weight training and general conditioning into your routine to build balanced strength, endurance, and resilience. A strong, well-conditioned body doesn’t just look good on camera; it helps protect you from injury and allows you to perform consistently across long shooting days. Focus on functional strength (explosive power, grip, core stability, mobility) rather than just size or appearance. If your training requires role-specific preparation, such as doubling an athletic superhero, your physique will need to reflect that. If you’re working on historical or creature performances, movement quality and adaptability might matter more. Either way, being in peak physical condition shows commitment and professionalism, which helps you bring authenticity to every role you take on.

  • Learn body control in how to fall, roll, recover and take reactions. Having spatial and body awareness is so important. This is why gymnasts are generally regarded to be the most well rounded in terms of their athleticism across all sports. Be sure not to neglect flexibility and mobility. They’re often overlooked, but essential for injury prevention and longevity in your career.

  • Get your nutrition in check; just as you train your body and skills, supporting it with proper fuel and recovery ensures you can perform consistently, safely and at your best.

  • Make sure that you are prioritising your rest and sleep. A well-rested body performs better, reacts faster and recovers more effectively from both training and stunts. Stunt work is physically intense and mentally demanding — without proper recovery, performance, focus, and safety can all be compromised.

• Get proper and relevant training

  • Attending a screenfighting course or workshop will be invaluable for you to understand timing, distancing as well as endurance that will generally be required of you on set. So be sure to look up any courses that may be available, but also research into the background and experience of the course leader. It’s always advisable to learn from someone who has not only been there, but is current and active in the industry. Techniques, safety standards, and expectations evolve constantly, so learning from professionals who are still working keeps your knowledge relevant and up to date.

  • Screenfighting workshops don’t just help you refine your technical skills, they’re also a great way to network with like-minded performers. You’ll often meet people at different stages in their careers; some just starting out or others already working regularly on productions. This mix creates an environment where there’s always something to learn. Watching how more experienced performers move, communicate and prepare can be incredibly valuable. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek feedback; most people in the stunts are generous with their knowledge and you’ll often find that the connections you make in training can lead to future opportunities.

  • Workshops also give you the chance to practice professionalism in a semi-set environment: showing up prepared, taking direction well and collaborating safely with partners. Those habits will serve you long after the class ends.

  • If you’re based in the UK and training to join the British Stunt Register (BSR), your training will be broad and multidisciplinary. Whilst your schedule will be spread across many areas, it’s essential to stay on top of core skills such as combat.

• Creating a showreel

  • This industry is built on collaboration, so if you can find people to train with, it’s worth teaming up to film your own material, especially while you’re building experience. You can also include clips from productions you’ve worked on, but don’t wait for paid jobs to start creating. Some of the best reels come from well-planned training shoots where you can control lighting, framing and camera angles to really showcase your skills.

  • When filming, make sure your clips are clean and focused primarily on you. The goal is to highlight your range and abilities, not to make a flashy movie trailer. Use clear, well-lit environments and keep camera movement simple so coordinators can easily see your technique, timing and control.

  • It’s also important to show variety; hand-to-hand, weapons work, reactions, falls, flips, driving, wire work, whatever fits your skill set. Just make sure every clip demonstrates good form, safety and intention. One impressive, polished move is better than ten messy ones.

  • Keep your reel short and impactful, ideally 1–2 minutes and be sure to include your contact information at the end. Always keep it up to date as you gain experience or add new skills.

  • Remember: your stunt reel is often your first impression to those who don’t yet know you. It should show not only what you can do, but also how safely, professionally and creatively you do it.

  • This is why it is important to be able to shoot and edit; learning skills behind the camera will absolutely improve your skills as a performer in front of it.

• Networking and making a good impression

  • I spoke about this in another article on tips for actors, so I won’t go too much into this, however this industry thrives on reputation and relationships, so professionalism is everything. Being punctual, respectful, humble and easy to work with goes a long way. Always show gratitude, both during and after a shoot, whether that’s thanking the coordinator, your stunt team or other departments who helped make things run smoothly. A simple ‘thank you’ means a lot. When sharing behind-the-scenes moments or wrap posts on social media, take the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the people you worked with. It not only shows respect, but helps build a positive, collaborative reputation that people will remember the next time they’re hiring. Just remember to avoid posting spoilers, unreleased material or unsafe footage; always check what’s been cleared for public sharing before you post.

• Understand the business side

  • Research into unions as well as latest ongoings (for instance, the fact that unions may no longer offer insurance for performers), understand contracts, day rates and how residuals or credits work.

  • Make sure your admin is sharp and on point; if someone is asking for your stunt CV, showreel or if you’re having to send an invoice, make sure you’re in a position to send it off at a moment’s notice. Keeping your documents organised and up to date not only saves time but also shows you’re reliable, prepared, and professional; all qualities that make you stand out in a competitive industry.

• Building a positive social media presence

  • Having a social media presence can be a powerful way to stay visible, connect with others and showcase your growth. Posting clips of your training, behind-the-scenes practice or skill development helps others see your work ethic, consistency and professionalism. It’s not about showing off, it’s about sharing your journey and demonstrating your commitment to the craft.

  • Engage with other stunt performers, coordinators and film professionals in a positive and supportive way. Commenting on others’ work, celebrating their achievements and sharing useful insights builds genuine relationships and strengthens your network. The stunt community is relatively small and your online interactions can reflect your attitude just as much as your on-set behavior.

  • Always keep things professional; again, avoid posting unsafe material, spoilers or anything that could breach confidentiality agreements. Treat your social platforms as an extension of your professional image; a space to inspire, connect and collaborate with others who share your passion for the industry.

One of the questions I get asked most often is how to get into acting, or how to progress in one’s acting career. Success in the film industry can take many different roads; one size definitely does not fit all, and I can certainly attest to that from personal experience. That being said, there are tips I can offer, which I’ll outline in this article. But first, let’s explore motivation. I feel that almost anyone could be an actor, but not everyone can (or should) aim to be a celebrity. It’s important to understand why you want to become an actor or performer. If your primary motivation is fame, that mindset can easily lead you down the wrong path, one where you risk damaging relationships and losing your sense of purpose along the way.

​However, if you love to perform, to explore the human condition, to tell stories that matter, to inspire, entertain, comfort and connect with others, then this is a far healthier and more fulfilling foundation to start from. Once you’ve reflected on your motivation, the next step is to look at how to actually begin or continue your journey. The truth is, there’s no single ‘right’ way to build an acting career, but there are definitely practical steps that can help you grow both as a performer and as a person. These steps aren’t about chasing perfection or instant success; they’re about developing consistency, resilience, and self-awareness, all qualities that will serve you no matter where your path leads.

It’s also worth noting that not everyone takes up acting to become a professional. Some do it to build confidence, express themselves more freely, or feel comfortable in everyday situations like conversations or presentations. With that in mind, here are 20 essential tips for aspiring actors (and perhaps act as a reminder for those already in the game):

• Use your life experience as fuel for your craft

  • First and foremost, everything you’ve done in life so far is valuable preparation for acting. Every job, relationship, and challenge gives you material to draw from. Real-world experience helps you bring authenticity and truth to your performances. For example, if you’re cast as a supermarket clerk and you’ve worked behind a till before, you already understand the rhythm, tone and small gestures that make that role feel real. Acting is, in many ways, about paying attention, to yourself, to others and to life itself.

• Don’t quit your day job just yet

  • It’s important to be realistic in the early stages. Acting can be unpredictable and it may take time before it becomes financially sustainable. There’s absolutely no shame in having another job alongside your creative pursuits; in fact, it can provide stability, reduce pressure and give you the freedom to make better artistic choices. Treat acting as an enjoyable and fulfilling part of your life at first; a craft to nurture rather than a race to win. As your experience and network grow, you can decide if and when it makes sense to transition more fully into it.

• Connect with local film schools or universities

  • Many local colleges and universities run film or media programmes and often need actors for student projects. Getting involved can help you build valuable on-camera experience while also creating material for your showreel. It’s a great way to start learning the language of film sets and collaborating with emerging filmmakers who might one day become key industry players.

• Sign up with extra or supporting artist agencies

  • While being a supporting artist isn’t a direct path to acting, it provides an invaluable introduction to how film and TV sets operate. You’ll gain first-hand experience of professional environments, meet crew members and other performers and start building a network of like-minded people. Plus, it can be an enjoyable way to stay close to the work while developing your own craft.

• Define your casting type and invest in headshots

  • Think about the kinds of roles you naturally connect with, for instance, whether it’s comedic, dramatic, contemporary or period. Professional headshots are your calling card; they should reflect who you are and how you might be cast. A good photographer can help you capture a range of looks that feel authentic and true to you.

• Attend film festivals and networking events

  • Festivals and industry events can be great places to meet filmmakers, casting directors, and other creatives. Do your research beforehand; find out who will be there, study their bodies of work and think about what you genuinely appreciate about it. That preparation helps conversations flow naturally and shows you’re genuinely engaged with the craft, not just looking for an opportunity. If you’ve made a connection and impression with someone at such an event, be sure to follow up down the line via email or social media.

• Build an intentional online presence

  • Consider creating a dedicated social media profile, such as an Instagram account focused on your acting journey. Share updates about your training, projects and creative insights. Be mindful about what you post and remember that social media is also a marketing tool. Learning about engagement (when to post, how to interact, and how to support others) can help you build a positive and professional online presence.

• Learn the basics of filming and editing

  • Following on from the last point, understanding what happens behind the camera can make you a stronger performer in front of it. Experiment with filming yourself, paying attention to framing, lighting, and sound — these elements can dramatically change how a performance reads on screen. It’s also worth learning some basic editing skills; knowing how to put together your own self-tapes or short clips not only helps you showcase your work effectively but also teaches you how subtle changes in pace, angle, and tone can transform a scene. This awareness can elevate both your performances and your professionalism. Knowing how to cut together clips, adjust lighting, or frame shots can make your online content more polished and professional, giving you control over how you’re seen by others.

• Keep training - always be working on your craft

  • When you’re not working in your craft, you should be working on your craft; growth doesn’t stop between jobs. Training can take many forms, such as joining local acting groups, enrolling in community or online courses or studying performances you admire. YouTube and online masterclasses can be valuable tools for developing technique, exploring different acting methods, or simply staying inspired. Download scripts, film self-tapes and review your work. Becoming proficient at self-taping is essential in today’s industry, where auditions are increasingly digital. The more comfortable and confident you become with this process, the more control you have over how your talent is presented.

• Develop additional skills that complement your craft

  • Think about the types of roles you’d love to play and what skills might support them. If you’re drawn to action roles, for example, consider training in stage combat, martial arts or basic stunt workshops. If you’re interested in police or military roles, learning safe firearm handling or tactical movement can be really useful. Not only do these skills make you more versatile and employable, but they also help you feel more confident and capable on set. Plus, capturing footage of yourself developing these skills can add exciting, dynamic material to your showreel.

• Collaborate and create with others

  • Collaboration is at the heart of acting. Seek out other creatives; filmmakers, writers, photographers, or fellow actors and work together on small projects. This could mean filming short scenes, helping on someone else’s project or joining a local group. These collaborations don’t just build experience; they also build community. The relationships you form along the way can lead to future opportunities, creative partnerships, and lasting friendships. Remember, every great production begins with people who simply wanted to create something together.

• Be kind, patient, and understanding

  • The film industry can be an incredibly high-pressure environment where everyone, from the director to the runner, is working to tight deadlines and expectations. A little empathy goes a long way. Approach each project with patience, professionalism and kindness. Treat everyone on set with respect, regardless of their position. People will always remember how you made them feel, and that positive energy not only makes you a joy to work with, but it also builds a reputation that can open doors later in your career.

• Cultivate genuine gratitude

  • Be thankful for every opportunity you receive, no matter the size of the role. Small gestures of appreciation such as writing personalised thank you cards when a project wraps can make a lasting impression. Do this not to seek more work, but to show authentic gratitude for your colleagues, their efforts and the experiences you’ve shared together. When posting on social media, express your appreciation sincerely and humbly. Celebrate the people you’ve worked with rather than only your own accomplishments. Gratitude and humility build trust, foster authentic relationships and reinforce your reputation in an industry where connections are everything. Gratitude builds trust and fosters genuine relationships. Remember, this industry thrives on connection and reputation. It’s not always about who you know, it’s about who knows you and how you’ve made them feel. When your name comes up in a conversation, your kindness and professionalism should speak for you long before you do. Once you’re in the room, you’ll be able to showcase what you know and what you can do.

• Stay informed about the industry

  • The entertainment industry is constantly evolving, from changes in contracts and union rules to shifts in technology and casting practices. Staying informed helps you protect yourself and make smarter decisions about your career. Take time to read trade publications, follow reputable industry news sources and if you’d like to, engage in communities where updates are shared. Understanding your rights as a performer ensures you’re treated fairly and empowers you to navigate your career with confidence.

• Choose your company wisely

  • The people you surround yourself with will have a huge influence on your growth and reputation. Build relationships with those who share your values, professionalism and respect for others. It’s good to stay aware of who you can trust, so pay attention to people’s actions, not just their words. The industry is built on collaboration and your network can become one of your greatest assets. Being discerning about who you align yourself with helps protect your integrity and keeps your focus where it belongs - on the work and the art.

• Regard rejection as redirection

  • In this industry, ‘no’ will be far more common than ‘yes’, and that’s okay. Not every opportunity is the right one for you; sometimes a rejection is simply a redirection toward a better fit. Keep your head down for the grind, but your chin up for a healthy mind. Each “no” is not a reflection of your worth; it’s a stepping stone toward the role, project or collaboration that will truly align with your talent and vision. Be happy for whoever booked the role over you; their path is different to yours and this is an industry that will have more opportunities down the line that you just don’t know about yet. Even if you were shortlisted for a great role, it just means you’re on someone’s radar now and that you’re capable of being considered for such a role.

• Seek representation wisely

  • Before approaching an agent, you’ll want to make sure you have some experience, such as short films, student films, attend workshops, so you can create a strong showreel in addition to updated headshots. This ensures that you’re approaching agencies with something tangible that showcases your ability and dedication as opposed to approaching them with nothing to show. When looking for an agent, avoid the trap of desperation. Don’t sign with just anyone; it’s important to find an agency that resonates with your values and the direction you want your career to take. Do your research before reaching out; study their roster, understand the types of actors and roles they handle and tailor your communication to show that you’re informed and serious. A thoughtful approach positions you far better than sending out generic emails. When you do get in touch, introduce yourself briefly, mention your training, experience, and relevant skills, and include your headshots, résumé and a link to your showreel.

• Keep your admin sharp

  • Professionalism isn’t just about performance; it’s also about organisation. Make sure your resume, showreel and contact information are always up to date and ready to share at a moment’s notice. When sending invoices or managing payments, double-check details like names, amounts and deadlines. Impeccable administrative habits build trust, prevent errors and ensure that people know they can rely on you both on and off set.

• Honour your boundaries

  • Acting is about exploration and challenge, but it should never compromise your comfort or values. Learn to say no to anything you’re not comfortable with, whether it’s a role, a scene or a professional situation. Boundaries are not limitations; they’re a form of self-respect that ultimately makes you stronger, more confident and more sustainable as a performer.

• Keep curiosity and joy at the heart of your craft

  • Acting is as much about exploration as it is about discipline. Never lose your curiosity for human behaviour, stories or the art of performance itself. Stay open to learning from every experience, every project and every person you meet. Remember to find joy in the process, not just the outcome. The more you enjoy the journey; the auditions, the workshops, the collaborations, the more authentic, alive, and compelling your performances will be. Passion and joy are infectious, and they’re what will sustain you through the inevitable ups and downs of this career.

​The path to becoming an actor is rarely straightforward, and it certainly isn’t the same for everyone. There will be moments of doubt, waiting and rejection, but also moments of discovery, connection and joy. Not every opportunity is the right one for you, and you will hear many ‘no’s’ before that one ‘yes’ comes along. Regard rejection as redirection: a chance to learn, grow and move closer to the projects that truly align with your talent and vision.

​Even if you’re not yet a professional actor, be professional. Show up with respect, integrity, prepare diligently and treat every opportunity, no matter how small as a chance to learn and grow. Take action now to become the person you aspire to be in the future. It’s not fake it till you make it, because you’re actively working on acquiring the traits your future self already has. Remember that the habits you build today, the way you treat others and the care you put into your work all lay the foundation for the career you want tomorrow. I also want to add that the productions that will take you to the next levels are not yet on your radar; they’re still in pre-production, still being written and when they come to casting for it, you will have acquired enough experience to be the right person for them.

​Remember, acting isn’t just about performing, it’s about living with awareness, empathy, humility, and purpose. Whether you’re on stage, in front of a camera or simply navigating your everyday life, that commitment to authenticity is what makes you a true actor.