PREPARING FOR PILOT SEASON

One of the most exciting times of the year for actors is pilot season. If you’re new to the industry, you’re probably wondering what the heck I’m talking about. Let me explain.

A lot goes into launching a new network series. So much so, that many series actually never make it to the primetime lineup. A pilot episode is an episode of a new series that’s taped so that networks can submit it to advertisers, test audiences and the media to begin gauging responses and building a buzz.

Pilot season refers to the time of year that networks begin casting for pilot episodes. While pilot season generally begins in January, some shows can begin casting even earlier. Casting for pilots is a huge deal for actors for several reasons. First, dozens of pilots are shot each season, so there are lots of opportunities to get in front of top casting agents and producers. Secondly, if you’ve ever dreamed of landing a job on a major television network series, pilot season is by far your best shot. And third, if you book a show that doesn’t get “picked up” (selected to air during the upcoming season), simply booking the pilot is a major career accomplishment! When you tape a pilot, casting directors and producers will often remember you when other opportunities arise, which often means a really great shot at other major roles in the future.

In 1999, Busy Phillips (White Chicks) booked a pilot entitled, Saving Graces. Although the pilot was never aired, she got a lot of great exposure and later went on to book a number of really great roles on various television series like Malcolm in the Middle, Dawson’s Creek, How I Met Your Mother as well as several roles in major motion pictures. Sure it was a bummer when Saving Graces didn’t make the fall lineup, but despite that one little bump in the road, Busy went on to become a popular, working actress.

Pilot season could be a great opportunity for you to get your foot in the door so make sure you’re ready! As casting directors gear up for this busy time of the year, be very vigilant about checking updated casting notices and audition information on our website. You never know, I might be watching you on a major network series next fall! Good luck!

Check back tomorrow, I’ll be talking about the reality of show business.

TURN YOUR NEW ROLE INTO REPRESENTATION

Guess what! I’ve got some really exciting news to report. We’ve done the math and you won’t believe how many members on our site have been contacted by casting directors and agents.

381,373 members were contacted in the last year
22,164 members were contacted in the last 30 days
7,074 members were contacted in the last 7 days

And our members shared some really great success stories. I just wanted to take a moment to congratulate everyone who got an audition or booked a job this past month! I’m really happy for you guys. Please keep sharing your success stories. They truly make my day!

Now on to today’s blog…

So you’ve been scouring the internet and industry publications for auditions and it’s finally paid off! Congratulations! But guess what? You’ve still got work to do. Your hard work has landed you a job, but now’s the time to leverage your new role and get representation.

Whether you’ll be featured in a live stage, television or film production, it’s important to get the word out to the people who can help you take your career to even greater heights. Now’s the time to let agents and managers know that you’re a bankable talent and you’re ready to take the industry by storm.

How do you do this? It’s actually quite easy. Most people send mass mailings to agents and managers when they are looking for representation. You can apply the same principle when you’ve landed a role. Sending a simple postcard to announce your new role to agents and managers can greatly improve your odds of getting representation, compared to simply sending a headshot and a cover letter that may or may not be opened or given substantial consideration.

The front of the postcard should be a full color headshot with your name and the role you’re appearing in. On the back, you can include more information about yourself and about your new role. Be sure the info is short and concise and that your photo is engaging. If it’s a live performance, invite the agent or manager to attend. If it’s a television or film role, invite them to tune in or check it out.

Be advised that the manager or agent will probably not come to your live performance. However, what’s most important is that they 1) See your face, and identify you as someone they may want to work with, 2) See that you’re able to book work, and that a relationship with you could be a profitable one and 3) Call you to schedule an appointment for you to come in and meet with them.

So what are you waiting for? Start sending out those postcards today! Not sure where to send your postcards? Visit our site today for a list of agents and managers in your area!

Remember to check back on Monday for information on how networking can help to boost your career. Have a great weekend!