Career Guidance for Actors: Navigating the Business Side of Show Business

So you’ve got the monologue, you’ve got the self-tape setup, you’ve even read Respect for Acting twice and highlighted it like you were studying for the SATs. But here’s the thing — being a working actor isn’t just about the art. It’s also about the business.

And if you ignore the business side? That’s how you end up with an inbox full of “opportunities” from sketchy “agencies” who want $500 for headshots, a “guaranteed Netflix audition,” and maybe your soul.

Agents & Managers: Who’s Who in Your Corner

An agent gets you auditions. A manager helps guide your career. Both take a commission (usually 10–15%). Neither should ask you for money upfront. If they do? Block them faster than you block that one classmate who posts their self-tape on Instagram every day.

How to find legit reps:

• IMDbPro — search actors similar to you and see who represents them.

• SAG-AFTRA Signatory List — these agencies are cleared to work with union talent.

• CastingAbout — great for keeping track of industry contacts and who’s casting what.

  
  

Unions 101

SAG-AFTRA (film/TV/radio) and AEA (theatre) are your two big unions. Joining means better pay, protections, and benefits — but it also means you can’t take certain non-union jobs anymore. Translation: don’t rush to join the second you book one student film.

Headshots & Resumes: Your Calling Card

• Headshots — must look like you on your best day, not your LinkedIn profile picture from 2017. Invest in a photographer who understands actors.

• Resume — list credits, training, special skills (but please don’t write “accents” unless you actually sound like you’re from Liverpool).

  
  

Networking Without Being Weird

The best networking isn’t “networking” — it’s showing up and being part of the community. Attend play readings, short film screenings, and acting classes. Support other actors. And when you meet someone in the industry? Lead with curiosity, not “Can you get me in the room for Stranger Things?”

Taxes & Paperwork: The Glamorous Side

You are a small business. Keep receipts for training, travel to auditions, and gear. Consider setting up a separate bank account for acting expenses. And yes, you’ll probably need to do quarterly estimated taxes once you’re working regularly (I know — thrilling).

Final Takeaway

Your acting career is part artistry, part entrepreneurship. Treat it like both, and you’ll have a much better shot at building something sustainable instead of burning out after one bad pilot season.

Resources Mentioned:

• IMDbPro

• SAG-AFTRA Signatory Agencies

• CastingAbout