Pilot Season 101 for 2010

So pilot season is wrapping up in LA with maybe a couple of weeks to go. For those beginners out there, pilot season is the time of year (typically from January to April) when the networks shoot a bunch of television shows to see what they will introduce in their fall lineup.

Each network used to shoot 100 or more pilots, but that's not the norm anymore with massive budget cuts. So how do you make the most of this time for next year? Here's how you can start now:

Now:
1. Move to Los Angeles. I've never understood people who come to LA for a few months or weeks and hope to make it big. Not saying it doesn't work, but it's very rare.

April-August 2009
2. Get a good or better agent. This is easier said than done but now is the time to put up a showcase, take meetings and schmooze your way into a better representation situation.

August-November 2009
3. Push to land co-star and guest star roles. This will put you in a better position for pilots if producers know you're currently working. Casting directors will also have you fresh in mind for projects.

December 2009
4. Take a pilot prep or scene study class. Remember how to do a great character analysis and brush up on cold reading.

January-April 2010
5. Pilot auditions! Send out postcards with reminders of recent work and push for your favorite casting directors to see you.

Good luck in 2010!