Asking for Advice: BE SPECIFIC!

I think it's so important to ask other industry professionals for advice --- it's the reason I created this blog! I (and a number of actors I know) get lots of emails asking for advice about everything from getting an agent to photographers to classes to audition advice (all of which I've covered in this blog, so check those entries out!).

Although I try to respond to every email, it's tough to answer queries in which people want to know EVERYTHING about the business. I just don't know how to answer broad questions like "How can I become famous?" or "Do you have any advice for me?" I would advise people to instead ask ONE specific question. It's easier to answer "How long have you been with your current agent?" or "How did you get your current agent?" (Answers by the way: 2 years, referral from my manager). Everyone's path is SO different, so I always just say FOLLOW YOUR PASSION and you can never go wrong!

And just keeping it real here -- an actor you don't know (not just me, any actor) is not likely to refer you to their own agent or meet with you in person. Be realistic with your expectations. An answer to a question is one thing, but asking for an actor to meet with you and outline your career path is entirely another. :-) Plus, this is an adventure and it wouldn't be any fun if you didn't do it your own way!

Thanks for reading!