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.

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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):

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• 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.

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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.

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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. 

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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.