Although acting is often described as a fiercely competitive profession, it is also a deeply collaborative one. Actors should strive to be professional, respectful, and flexible throughout the rehearsal process; this includes being prompt and prepared for rehearsal. A reputation for inflexibility or unprofessional behavior can seriously affect an actor’s career. Additionally, the best actors are as committed to their job offstage as they are onstage. They practice and research their role with dedication, and do whatever they can to support fellow actors in their processes. Additionally, this is a field in which professional networking is exceptionally beneficial; an outgoing or friendly personality and willingness to put oneself out there at parties and other events can be very helpful.
Generally speaking, actors’ work lives follow a cycle: audition, get a part, prepare, perform, and repeat. As they work on productions, all but the most successful actors tend to hold down one or more other jobs. In almost every major acting industry, the job means working long hours and late nights. Stage actors are generally called in the evening to avoid conflicts with day jobs, while film actors may be called for 12 hours or more. Working in the film industry often necessitates travel, whereas stage actors generally only travel if relocating to another city in order to participate in a specific production or touring.
