Professionalism in the business of Acting

I spoke about professionalism Saturday afternoon at an industry conference because its an industry where we are all freelancers, even those of us with an agency.  We are all self-employed.  So what do we know about the business world, and how do we properly behave to get hired?

If you think it doesn't make a difference, think again! I think the #1 reason I get hired and RE-HIRED is because of professionalism.

I come from a corporate background, so to me, professionalism comes second nature.  But what I found in the acting world, is so many people do not come from that environment, they get a bad wrap simply because they don't know any better.

How do you change old habits?

Pretend your in an office environment!  This is a job, not a hobby.
I used to work for CEO's and Vice Presidents.  We are actors, we can "Act" professional.  What does that mean?  It means I am going to sound like your mother for a minute, but these things will make a difference.

• Dress professionally and bring required wardrobe
• Pay attention to details on call sheet about hair and makeup as well
• Show up on time, plan on 15 min early if you aren't familiar with the area or its during rush hour
• Call if there is a traffic issue
• Take the call sheet with you!
• No complaining, drama, or unnecessary chatter
• Be courteous to ALL cast and crew
• Bring your script and study, study, study!
• Need a scene partner?  Listen for the Director, but get far enough away from others as not to disturb anyone.
• No cell phones/cameras on set.  
• If you bring one in, set to silent before filming then turn off completely once filing begins. 
• Its usually ok to take non-production photos in holding areas, etc, but make sure its NOT while they are filming (non-production) and ask permission when taking photos with other actors.  Especially stars!
• Do not take production photos without permission. 
• If it is ok, with permission, keep flash off and keep to a minimum
• If your too tempted, leave in the car or at home.
• Its never ok to bring your cell phone on a Union set.  
• Listen more than talk, follow on set instructions and make sure you understand what is said
• Don't be chatting with your neighbor when the Director is trying to tell you what they need you to do.
• Go above and beyond when you can - think outside the box
• Bring extra clothes
• Always bring makeup/curling iron in case MUA doesn't show
• Grooming is important!
• Bring something to read, not electronic devices if possible.  (no iPods, iPads, or Laptops, but Kindles are ok) 
• Besides being disruptive, they can get stolen!
• Smile!  This is fun, right?!  J J 

I don't have all the answers, please add your own in the comments section.  Just doing my part to help you.

Give yourself a break.  I still make plenty of mistakes, all of us do - we are all human.  Just learn and do better the next time.  Be the absolute best you can and you will be a professional before you know it!  Just remember, professionals want to hire professionals.

Thanks and good luck!
Deb
https://www.facebook.com/DebbieJenningsActor
https://twitter.com/ActressDeb
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4824944/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1
http://debbiejennings.biz/