In the dynamic world of show business and hybrid media presentation, defined by social media, streaming, podcasting, gaming platforms, etc., standing out from the crowd is crucial. This guide equips aspiring performers and presenters with essential tools and strategies to craft compelling resumes, cover letters, and promotional materials that capture the attention of casting directors, agents, investors, and producers.
Crafting Your Story: The Modern Show Business Resume
The show business resume is a one-page snapshot of your talent, experience, and passion. It needs to be clear, concise, and visually appealing. Here's what you need to include:
- Bold Headline: Start with your name in a large, professional font.
- Contact Information: Include your phone number, email address, and a link to your online portfolio (if applicable).
- Skills: Showcase your strongest skills relevant to the industry you're pursuing (acting, singing, dancing, presenting, etc.).
- Training & Education: List any acting schools, workshops, or relevant degrees you've completed.
- Experience: List professional or notable performances, including specific roles, productions, and companies.
- Special Skills: Highlight any special talents or certifications that set you apart (musical instruments, accents, sports, etc.).
- Union Affiliations: Mention any union memberships you hold (SAG-AFTRA, AEA, etc.).
Targeting Your Audience: Cover Letters with Impact
Avoid generic cover letters that get lost in the pile. Your cover letter should be personalized and engaging. Here's how to make it shine:
- Tailor it to the recipient: Research the recipient's projects and interests to demonstrate your knowledge of their work.
- Highlight recent accomplishments: Briefly mention your latest projects or achievements that showcase your skills.
- Express your passion: Show your genuine enthusiasm for the industry and the specific role you're interested in.
- Call to action: Conclude with a clear call to action, such as requesting an interview or expressing your availability for an audition.
Beyond the Resume: Creating a Comprehensive Package
Your resume and cover letter are just part of the story. Consider these additional tools to create a well-rounded presentation:
- Headshots: Invest in professional headshots that showcase your personality and range.
- Website/Online Portfolio: Create a website or online portfolio to showcase your work, videos, and testimonials.
- Demo Reels: For actors, singers, or presenters, a short demo reel can be a powerful way to showcase your talent.
- Social Media: Leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter to network with industry professionals and build your presence.
Targeted Mailings vs. Digital Outreach
While traditional mailings still have a place in show business, the industry is increasingly moving towards digital outreach. Consider these strategies:
- Targeted Email Campaigns: Instead of mass mailing, create targeted email lists based on specific casting calls or production companies.
- Online Marketplaces: Use platforms like Actors Access or Casting Networks to submit your profiles and apply for casting calls.
- Networking Online: Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or other online platforms to build relationships and stay informed.
Stay Updated: Resources for Aspiring Show Business Professionals
The landscape of show business is constantly evolving. Here are some resources to help you stay informed and connected:
- Industry Publications: Subscribe to online publications like Deadline Hollywood or Variety for industry news and insights.
- Workshops & Conferences: Attend industry workshops and conferences to network, learn new skills, and gain exposure.
- Professional Associations: Join relevant professional associations like SAG-AFTRA or the National Association of Broadcasters for access to resources and support.
Remember, success in show business takes dedication, persistence, and continuous learning. By using this guide and staying adaptable, you can effectively showcase your talent and pave the way for a fulfilling career in the exciting world of show business and media presenting!
CHECK LIST OF ELEMENTS THAT SHOULD APPEAR ON A MEDIA ARTISTS' RESUME |
- AGE RANGE, usually indicating the eight to ten year range that you could be cast as.
- AGENT, the person franchised by one or more of the major unions who represents and negotiates on your behalf.
- AGENCY, the office of your agent.
- BUSINESS MANAGER, meaning the person handling your business affairs.
- COACH, who guides your development in acting, singing or dancing.
- CONTACT NUMBER, traditionally the phone number of an answering service appointed to take important calls for you, but in today’s myriad messaging environment can be many things.
- DANCE, the training and/or performances you have had in the field.
- DEMO, meaning 1/2" or 3/4" demo tape of one to five minutes showing excerpts of your most recent television and/or film roles.
- DIALECTS, the different speech patterns found regionally and internationally.
- EDUCATION, your training, college or otherwise, that is particularly concerned with theatre, dance, voice, commercials etc.
- EYES, or more precisely, the color of your eyes.
- EXPERIENCE, encompassing: Broadway, children’s theater, chorus, classical theater, co-starring roles, commercials (listed upon request), community theater, dance performance, day players, extra work (listed upon request), featured roles, film work, first national tour, game shows (especially since many now hire actors to be contestants), guest starring roles, improv, industrial films, lead roles, modeling, musical theater, music videos, repertory theater, representative roles, series regular, showcase, sit-com, soap opera, special business (a small role in a production that is unique or specialized, usually interacting with a principal), stage combat, starring roles, summer stock or straw hat, under five (U/5) television roles of 5 lines or less.
- HAIR, the actor’s hair color.
- HEIGHT, the actor’s height.
- NO CURRENT CONFLICTS, meaning you do not currently have a commercial running or one that you are on hold for.
- PRODUCTION COMPANY, or the name of the entity that puts together or heads the project you appear in.
- PR PERSON, or persons who get your name and likeness out to the media and public.
- RECENT ADDITIONS, includes space at the bottom of a resume in order to accommodate new credits without reprinting the entire resume.
- TRAINING at various institutions, or with well placed individuals, to gain the requisite knowledge of the craft, and which is usually regarded as an indicator of serious intent.
- TRAINING at various institutions, or with well placed individuals, to gain the requisite knowledge of the craft, and which is usually regarded as an indicator of serious intent.
- UNION AFFILIATION, the most common of which include: Actor’s Equity Association (AEA), American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA), American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), Screen Actors Guild (SAG), Associated Actors and Artists of America (AAAA), and to which all the above belong.
- WEIGHT, which would be considered one important aspect of the actor’s type.
TERMS TO KNOW |
Acting Resume. Focuses exclusively on acting and establishes your credibility as an actor by listing your acting experience and training as well as promoting you as an actor to agents and casting directors.
Biography. A concise account of an artist or group’s industry-related experience or background.
Press Kit. A presentation including newspaper clippings, review of movie, television, musical and theater productions, a biography, headshot and resume given to the media and interested industry professionals. Also called a press package.
Relevant Job Search Correspondence Associations
Entertainment Community Fund (formerly Actors’ Fund of America)
729 Seventh Avenue (48 & 49 Streets), 11 Floor
New York, NY 10036
Phone: 212-354-5480
Los Angeles: 323-933-9244 ext. 50
Career management and counseling mostly for sideline and second careers; educational grants for retraining and education. Their career counselors can support you in gaining the knowledge, attitude, and skills to navigate your career decisions today and in the future. Learn about the latest job search trends, and join workshops to gain cutting-edge employment tips and resources.
Email (NY/LA):
http://www.actorsfund.org/human/work.html
Association of Talent Agents (ATA)
3019 Ocean Park Boulevard, #344
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: 310-274-0628
The Association of Talent Agents (ATA) is the official trade association of talent agencies across the U.S. It was founded in 1937. It provides its members with a variety of services, including best practices, a voice in talent-agency related legislation, education, seminars, networking events, conferences, news bulletins, expert opinions and day-to-day support. It also provides negotiation, interpretation, construction and advice concerning talent representation agreements.
Email: contact form
http://www.agentassociation.com/
Casting Society of America
35 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 850
Chicago, Illinois 60601
Phone: 323-472-1172
The Casting Society of America is a global organization of casting professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards of casting within the entertainment industry. Casting Society Members are Casting Directors, Associate Casting Directors, Casting Executives, and Unscripted Casting Producers.
Email: contact form
http://www.castingsociety.com/