As a budding actor, you must have been told countless times that acting is a highly competitive field where only a few lucky people succeed! 

There are indeed several factors in this field that you cannot control — current trends, demands of the industry, union strikes, a tough economy, and timing.

However, there are ways to ride these storms. If you are looking around for actionable tips to set yourself up for success as an actor next year and beyond, then look no further! 

We have got you covered with 5 essential habits that you can put into practice and ace your acting journey. So without any ado, let's get straight into this:

Continuous Training and Education

One of the first and foremost steps to achieve success as an actor in 2024 has to be your eagerness to learn and polish your skills.

The Actor Strike in 2023 lasted 118 days and affected both Union and Non-Union actors.  

Acting is a craft that requires a diverse set of skills, including emotional range, vocal control, physicality, and improvisation. So committing to regular training helps actors refine and expand these skills, enabling them to take on a wider variety of roles. These skills are invaluable for actors seeking a well-rounded understanding of their profession.

Besides this, in a training environment, actors receive constructive feedback from instructors and peers. This feedback helps identify weaknesses and areas for improvement, leading to growth as a performer.

Beyond acting techniques, actors who invest in their education can market themselves as professionals committed to growth and excellence. This dedication can make them more appealing to casting directors and agents.

If you are looking forward to learning and evolving as an actor, you should consider: 

• Joining acting coaching classes and training

• Training under a professional  

• Getting feedback from your professional coaches and reps

Utilizing Online Learning Resources 

Since the pandemic, online learning resources have revolutionized the way actors can develop their skills, gain knowledge, and advance their careers. Whether you're an aspiring actor or an experienced performer, you can use these resources to master your craft. 

You can join an online acting class to hone your skills and discuss career goals with your private coach. Things to remember when working with an acting coach:

• The classes are what you make of them

• Your coach can guide you and provide support but isn’t a manager or agent

• It’s not always better to work with a well-known coach, find a coach that inspires you to be better

You can take advantage of online libraries and digital resources to study plays, scripts, and books on acting theory, theater history, and the performing arts. Discover websites to get monologues and scenes for practice. These resources provide a wide range of materials to help you prepare for auditions and performances. 

You can also utilize online casting and audition platforms to find opportunities and submit your auditions. These platforms connect actors with casting directors and production teams, opening doors to various projects.

When using online learning resources, it's essential to maintain: 

• Consistency in your training and digital persona

• Specific goals and objectives

• Create a schedule

• Keep track of your progress

Networking Opportunities

Success in acting does not solely depend on talent but it equally depends on your connections. Luckily for you, the entertainment industry is brimming with networking opportunities. 

Some easy ways to build a network are to attend acting workshops, film festivals, and local theater productions. Try to connect with fellow actors, directors, and casting professionals. It would be best if you also join online acting forums and communities where actors share their experiences, exchange information, and offer support. 

If you have an agent or a manager, use their industry connections for networking opportunities. They can introduce you to casting directors and other professionals.

Effective networking isn't just about accumulating business cards or connections on social media. It's about building meaningful relationships based on trust and mutual benefit. It is a long-term investment in your career, so nurture your connections and continue to expand your circle within the industry. Building connections and relationships in the industry can open doors to auditions and collaborations that can propel your career forward.

However, it is important to take care of the following while building your network: 

• Always be respectful towards everyone 

• Always be sociable and approachable

Online Presence

In an ever-evolving digital age, building a personal brand has become more important than ever. Your online identity can be your most powerful ally, helping you to stand out in a crowd of talented individuals. It enhances your ability to market yourself effectively which can also significantly impact your success as an actor. 

Therefore, it is crucial for budding actors to actively use social media, YouTube, and personal websites to showcase their talent and create a strong personal brand. Share your experiences, showcase your work, and engage with your audience. 

Don't be shy about sharing your experiences and achievements. 

Did you recently attend a workshop with a renowned acting coach? Are you part of an exciting new project? Let your followers know. It not only keeps your audience engaged but also invites industry professionals to take note of your progress.

If you become big on social, it will ultimately help you reach a broader audience and grab the attention of industry professionals. You never know who might come across your profile and offer you a golden opportunity that could change your life forever. 

Here are some great ideas for you to build a strong and authentic online presence:

• Leverage social media and create profiles on Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to reflect your unique personality. 

• Build a personal website that serves as your online hub, where you can showcase your portfolio and share your experiences. 

• Ensure a consistent brand across all your online platforms.

Persistence and Resilience

Last but not the least, believe in yourself. Once you believe in yourself, it becomes easy to navigate through rejections and challenges in your journey! 

The path to success in acting is rarely linear. Rejections and setbacks are part of every journey. 

However, the ability to persevere and stay resilient is what separates the successful actors from the rest. Every setback sets you up for a comeback. 

Keep auditioning, keep learning, and keep pushing forward. Every "no" brings you one step closer to the "yes" that could be a transformative experience and change your life. 

Key Takeaway

While the journey to become an actor might sound daunting and challenging, success in acting is not reserved for a few lucky people. 

You can be a successful actor too if you apply all of the above-mentioned tips with consistency!  

With consistent learning via training and online resources, building your community and network, and showing true determination along the way, you can always achieve success. 

It is also important to remember that success comes in many forms. It is not always about overnight fame or landing a lead role in a blockbuster movie. You can also find well-deserved recognition in supporting roles! 

We wish you all the best for your acting journey. Happy acting! 

Comment below what habits will you be adding to your strategy in 2024. For more make sure to follow the blog or sign up for classes with The Modern Actor coaching.