Needing The Cash Flow!

Clark Kent during the day, Superman by occupation

Hello Avid (or non-avid) Readers!

I apologize for not having posted in quite a while, however, like most actors who are waiting for the work to pick up, I've had to commit to a day job.

For those that are considering acting as a career, this is where things get real. Regardless of your standing in the industry, there are always going to be times where the work isn't as plentiful as we'd like.  So while we'd all love to have a full time career performing, it's normally imperative for most actors to have a side job or even a second career to help supplement the bills.

The cliche side job for an actor is normally waiting tables. HOWEVER, there are TONS of jobs you can get during the day that are also flexible with your audition schedule. Sometimes you just need to be creative. 


Actors and Entertainers have a leg up on competition because we've been trained to have excellent communication skills. So normally jobs that require any type of face-to-face or over the phone contact with customers or clients is a great option. 

Some of my resources to find side-work:

Craigslist - No, I'm not telling you to buy furniture. Craigslist has ads for all types of talent needed (as well as other side jobs). I personally find gigs as a promotional model and listings for band gigs! Now, craigslist does have it's shady side, so please be smart when going through the ads. Don't responds to anything that says nude! Also there are ALWAYS listings for film students that need actors for their projects (they don't pay, but it's good experience). 

Temp Agencies - There are hundreds of agencies out there that can help you get temporary work where needed. A lot of the jobs can be receptionist/assistant work (which is great and give you lots of study time for roles), substitute teaching work (if you have the qualifications), children's parties, etc. They understand that you have to be flexible to accommodate your auditioning schedule.  

Newspaper Want Ads - The want ads are a great resource for local gigs. Don't ever fall for the "You can make thousands just sitting on your ass" listings (they're normally crap scams). 

Extra Work - There are ALWAYS television shows and movies being filmed around the country and the world! Who do you think they get to be in the background of all those shots? YOU! Extra work is good to meet other in the business and really get our name out there. However, be forewarned that the hours are long (sometimes up to 15-18 hours) and the pay can be very little ($75 or 12 hours). If you do a google search for Background Extra work in your city, you're sure to find an agency or two to sign up with.

Recycler.com - Cool website, almost a cross between the Newspaper want ads and Craigslist. 

Now, of course these aren't the only options. An actor is also trained to be a chameleon and really pick up on the environment they're in. So the options are truly limitless! 


Some other ideas:
1) Waiter/Bartender
2) Receptionist
3) Promotional Model
4) Photographer
5) Nanny/Babysitter
6) Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
7) Telemarketing


Again, if you have any other resources, please feel free to share and I'll mention them in my next blog.

What side-jobs do you have?