#23: Know That You Need A Regular Job
Unless you’re coming out to Hollywood with a ton of money already in the bank, it’s most likely that you will need to financially sustain yourself with a regular job to pay the bills. A lot of actors don’t necessarily like the fact that they have to work while trying to establish an acting career, but this is reality. It’ll probably be your reality as well, so be prepared. It’s a humbling experience but what else are you gonna do? Move back home? Go back to where you came from when you run out of your savings? A lot of actors do that. But, I encourage you not to give up so easy.
Finding a job should be one of the first things you do when you arrive in Los Angeles. The important thing is to find a job that’s flexible enough to allow you to go on auditions. Working at night may work but be careful as you’ll want to be awake for your auditions! And remember, being late to an audition is a big no-no.
So what do you do? Be up front on your job application from the beginning. Let the hiring person know that you are an aspiring actor and may have to go on auditions. Inquire about the occupation’s schedule. What are the hours? Will you be able to make your auditions? Is it a part time job? Is the hiring manager willing to work around your schedule? Anyway, below are some jobs that may be somewhat flexible. There are a ton of other flexible jobs to choose from out there; these are just a few, so don’t get discouraged. Just make sure you can pay your bills and keep your lights on when you get out to L.A. Do what you gotta do.
1. waiter
2. working in a fast food restaurant
3. extra or background work
4. casting assistant
5. production assistant
6. personal trainer
7. sales person
8. make-up artist
9. home-based business
10. care provider or babysitter
