Re-locating = a lot of hard work! I know from experience, having just made the leap from NYC to Denver. It is exciting, daunting, and exhilarating all at once… just like this industry! The most important thing when re-locating is to keep in touch with old contacts while making every effort to create new contacts.

You’ll need to network so that you can find people who are going to help you on your path to stardom.

You simply can’t do it all alone. Here are some ways to find new contacts:

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Your first step on the road to great self promotion is right in your local bookstore!

These days, it’s all about killing two birds with one stone. In between browsing the latest bestsellers and doing some soul searching in the self-help section, take a look at your bookstore’s event calendar.

Bookstores, especially large chains like Barnes and Noble, often host networking meetings, book clubs, and readings by high-profile authors and celebrities.

Take your headshot, your comp card, or just your business card along and don’t be shy to make a new connection!

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Productions, shows and the entertainment industry goes on hold for a couple of weeks, it’s always a little slow. But that gives you a great opportunity to devoted some time to giving back.

You can do your part by researching charities and charitable organizations that hit close to home and help out! A little tight on money this year? Giving your time as a volunteer is a great way to take part.

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December and early January are the perfect times to reach out to friends and family that you haven’t spoken to in months or years. The same can be said for casting directors, agents, producers, and fellow actors.

Even with economic difficulties and the unrest within SAG, everyone is still taking time out during the holiday season to think on the positive side of things. That’s the best time to remind people that you’re there and you appreciate everything they’ve done for you in the past.

1. It’s never too late for cards with holiday greetings. Send a quick “Season’s Greetings” or “Happy New Year” card to people in your life who have or could help you. Enclose a postcard with your headshot on it.

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One of the things I love most about the entertainment industry is the feeling of community it brings. Whether you are an actor, camera operator, casting director, editor, or screenwriter, we are all part of the same community.

No one can function with one part missing, so teamwork is important, as well as embracing each piece of the puzzle. That means staying informed about what is happening in the entertainment industry as a whole. So how do you do that?

1. It’s awards season, so pay attention! The nominees for the SAG awards were just announced. Go see the nominated movies to get a taste of this year’s best and know what the industry is doing creatively.

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Brush up your hosting skills by organizing social and networking parties! You’ll not only refresh and expand your list of contact, but you’ll get some awesome practice in the meantime.

Gather your friends and anyone you have come in contact in within the last two years and invite them as well. Use your connection at bars, clubs, or catering options to see if anyone could help you out with planning and organizing.

Are you already an expert host? Consider party planning as a side job. You’ll make even more connections, and some of them may be A-listers looking for the next big thing!

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How many times have you heard the phrase, “It’s all about who you know.”

Well, that’s the truth. Networking is important in all careers, but it’s absolutely essential for actors and models.

It’s easiest to do if you live in Los Angeles or New York City, but that doesn’t mean the opportunities aren’t out there…nowadays, films are shot all over the country!

Here are some unexpected places you might just meet someone who can help you along with your career.

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Are you an entertainer trying to get yourself working? If your answer is yes, then you should definitely attend ActorFest NY this Saturday, November 15th!

It’s a one-day event that provides actors, singers, dancers, and performing artists “the unique opportunity to embrace free-flowing and honest advice from agents, casting directors and successful actors.”

At ActorFest NY you will attend great workshops, get advice from acting panels, and best of all you will network with top industry professionals!

Over 4,000 attendees in New York City come to ActorFest NY, so make sure you’re one of them! Talent like you will get the chance to meet face-to-face with dozens of acting teachers, vocal coaches, headshot photographers, and other professionals who will help advance your career! What are you waiting for?! Get out there, InstantCasters!

Click here to register for ActorFest NY now!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

You’ve chosen to become an actor. This means you are in complete control of your career… and that can be a good or bad thing. Whether tou may succeed or fail, you’re the one making every moment happen.

Only A-list actors have the choice to sit back and let parts come to them. Everyone else has to keep their eyes and ears open for good scripts and auditions – even if you’ve got an agent or manager.

Here are a few things you can do to keep pushing yourself forward:

1. Send your headshots and resumes to agents and casting directors. Make sure you follow up with a postcard, especially if you are looking into a specific part. Be pro-active, but not pushy.

2. Market yourself. Start your own personal website or MySpace page, that’s updated frequently. Keep your IMDB profile up-to-date. Network with industry professionals at parties or premieres.

3. Expand your knowledge. Take classes. Go to hear producers/actors/casting directors talk about the industry. Participate in workshops. Get involved in local theater.

4. If you are not getting calls for auditions, don’t be afraid to make a change. It could be location, physical appearance, or your headshot choices.

By Casting Director Renee Godbout