Have you ever asked yourself “Am I destined to be a full-time actor”? As you embark on your acting career, it’s difficult to know whether you’re ready to pursue it full-time, or if you should keep your day job. There is no exact answer since it all depends on how serious you are about acting.

No matter what the case, you should always remain realistic. If you decide to pursue acting as your full-time career, take classes and commit yourself to your work 100%. If you love acting, but have other passions elsewhere, realize that you can do both. Even if acting doesn’t end up being your full-time career, it may always be a fulfilling addition to–and perhaps even a release from–your everyday life.

Click here to see if you have what it takes to be a full-time actor

We want you to make the most of your InstantCast membership. So, today I’m encouraging you to add a link to your InstantCast profile in the signature file of your email program. Go to settings in your email program and follow the instructions on how to customize your signature. Now, everytime  you email a casting director, friend etc. they will be able to link back to your InstantCast profile. Remember, networking & getting out there is EVERYTHING…so get going & use your InstantCast membership to your advantage!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

As we wrap up 2008 and enter a new year, it’s important to remember that you should always say yes to any entertainment opportunities: Be open to accepting unpaid work. While you won’t be instantly gratified with money, unpaid show biz gigs will help you build your resume, network, and learn insider tools of the trade! So, as we enter the new year, remember to keep an open mind! Click here to hear the 6 reasons why you shouldn’t turn down a job!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

Once again, I am going to stress the importance of “standing out” from the competition. When you’re speaking with a casting director–whether it be in a group or one-on-one–it’s crucial that you distinguish yourself from the crowd. How will a casting director remember you after he/she meets you? Click here for the tip of the day & learn 5 magic words that will get you in the door, and keep you there!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

Tip of the day: Prepare for your next audition and the stress will disappear!

We know auditions can be very emotional and scary, so make sure you’re prepared. Don’t be late, memorize your sides and monologues, and be yourself.

Click here for 5 stress busters that will guarantee success at your next audition!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

You’ve taken the first step to stardom by creating a virtual talent profile on InstantCast. Now, be sure you have the best profile so that you stand out from the competition. You should have photos that reflect your versatility. Be as detailed as possible about your work experience, physical appearance, and special skills. Remember, you want to make yourself STAND OUT from the crowd!

Click here for 10 steps to a star-quality InstantCast profile.

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

Want to be the next Oprah? Think you have what it takes to make it in Hollywood? The first step is major self-promotion!

It’s great to have dreams, but you need to make sure you’re taking active and practical steps to achieve stardom. Nothing is going to fall in your lap unless you work for it.

Start by promoting yourself any way you can – like on InstantCast – and always carry your headshot and resume with you.

Put as much info, photos, and videos on your online virtual talent portfolio on InstantCast. Remember, the more you do, the more you will stand out!

Click here for more tips on how to promote yourself to stardom!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

What’s one of the best ways you can stand out from the competition? Take a risk! Think outside the box and try something new in your show business career. Act in a one-man show, do stand-up comedy, or try improv! When you try something new you’re bound to become more comfortable as an actor. So, get yourself out there & take a risk!

Click here for more tips on how to challenge yourself!

Not all actors come from huge enterainment capitals like New York City and L.A.! In the spirit of this week’s theme, “amazing celebrity discovery stories,” I want to remind you that you can get discovered in your hometown!

That’s right–all you have to do is get invloved in your community theatres, local films, student films, or hosting jobs! Someone is sure to spot your star quality in no time!

Click here for more details on how to get discovered in your hometown!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

In the spirit of this week’s theme, “Hollywood star discovery stories,” it’s important that you always make the best impression because you just never know when you’re going to get discovered!

So, my tip to you: be yourself at all times! If someone spots your natural talent, you’re good to go! Just click here to hear Charlize Theron’s amazing discovery story & get inspired!

Click here for a few guidelines on how to make the best first impressions!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

In showbiz it’s of utmost importance that you’re always prepared for your audition! This rule applies especially to the genre of reality TV. Reality TV shows usually require you to download an audition form and fill it out prior to your arrival. Since reality TV show auditions are open to everyone, there’s a lot of competition and they can be quite hectic. So, make sure you read everything in the casting call before you go! Appear professional & reliable and you’re sure to stand out from the crowd!

Click here for more reality TV audition tips!

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor