The Official Website of Chris Giovanni
Now Live! Check out my latest video with acting coach and my dear friend, Shari Shaw now live! Shari and I discuss the importance of finding passionate representation, navigating the show business industry in the beginning of your career, and other successful entrepreneur tips! Leave a comment below and subscribe to her channel!
SAVE THE DATE!
THE CGEM TALENT OPEN CALL RETURNS IN-PERSON AUGUST 21ST IN LOS ANGELES!
More details to come.
Exciting News!
Unfortunately due to COVID-19, all in-person interviews were canceled at my office.
I am excited to announce that on Saturday, April 11th 3P PST, I will be LIVE on instagram interviewing new talent across the nation. There are no fees — simply create an instagram account, follow @cgemtalent, and go live with your talent!
Sing, dance, act, rap — do whatever! You have 1 minute to show me what you got. See you soon!
Happy Thursday!
Wishing everyone tons of health and success during this time.
The entertainment industry has been strongly impacted by COVID-19 with nearly all studios and networks going dark for the time being.
Actors are out of work across the globe making it difficult for many to sustain comfortably in an already expensive market.
With the recent events, now is the time to keep your hustle strong. Your mind and resilience are your single most effective tools in overcoming struggle. You have the power of creating income right in your hands.
Below are a few ideas to help spark your creativity and embrace your independence from home:
1. Start an online blog or website with Google Adsense revenue.
Like many websites online, my website is powered with ads though Google Adsense. In exchange for free knowledge, Google sends me a check each month after calculating my clicks and viewership each month. Are you an expert in a particular field? Share it with the world and get paid by signing up through Google Adsense today.
2. Embark on a journey of voice-overs.
Voiceovers are still being rolled out despite most commercial and television productions being on halt. Turn the TV off, sit in your living room, and record various sound clips if you have an attractive voice. Scripts can be found online, or through a reputable talent agency such as DDO , KMR, or DPN.
3. Bring your expertise to videos.
Share a strong opinion on the current landscape of our world? Have a thought on breaking news, or how our entertainment industry is currently handling COVID-19? Hit the record button and share your thoughts. Spread viral awareness which can lead to sponsorship, or even national attention. Consistent content generates results.
4. Freelance websites if you’re looking for the extra cash.
Websites, such as fiverr or upwork, offer services for you to do quickly for money. Maybe someone needs a resume drafted, or a script translated and edited? Charge by the hour and watch the dollars rack up.
5. Create pay-per-view viewership. Become the movie theaters.
Have an interesting short film idea that involves your roommates, or family? If it’s intriguing enough, you may be able to rent it for 2.99 online. Content sites such as Vimeo offer rental services for you to turn your concept into dollars. Distribute independently, or share it online for the mass. Again, consistent content generates revenue.
6. Speak and write in multiple languages? Utilize your services for translation.
Many businesses (especially small) are seeking writers to translate press releases for them in handling COVID-19. Online listings on sites such as up-work can help you find these opportunities.
These are limited ideas but if you truly sit down and analyze all of your skillsets, you can easily turn it into money. Need help or guidance? Drop in the comments below and I will answer.
With love,
Chris Giovanni
twitter.com/chrisgiovannii
instagram.com/chrisgiovannii
Happy Thursday!
I am often questioned about my morning start as an entrepreneur, and how it is possible to establish a great routine. Being an entrepreneur is a 24-7 job, and these quick steps can help you get on the right track of mastering your day-to-day operation:
I am up every morning by 6AM.
Waking up early to me means being ahead of the competition. I am able to eat breakfast, get dressed, run and exercise, and prepare myself mentally for what is in store for today’s agenda. This is my “ME” time that allows me to efficiently carry out my day as a CEO.
“ME” time is EXTREMELY necessary.
In my profession, I’m talking to 50-100 people a day. My brain becomes scattered remembering names, casting offices, production numbers, social media accountants, clients, potential clients, my employees— the list grows daily as I grow in my business. I make it a MUST to have “ME” time one hour in the mornings, and one hour in the evenings. ME time may involve me going out with friends without talking about work, maybe just coming home to watch Disney+, or YouTube. Think of “ME” time as your phone charging at the end of the day to get back to 100%.
The first application that I check on my phone is MAIL.
I never check social media first. In fact, all social media notifications are disabled on my phone during the morning time. The first thing that I check when I wake up are my emails. I briefly skim through to find any urgent emails, or emails that are quick to respond to. I never boggle myself in the bed with emails that require LONG thoughtful responses. Instead, I mentally capture that email and think of my response as I get ready for the day.
I strategize my day during breakfast, or in the shower.
As a CEO, we’re prone to packed days. I can literally have back-to-back meetings from 10:00am-6:00pm. Being able to create boundaries and balance is the key to navigating a potentially hectic day. I will ask myself a variety of questions: Am I mentally prepared to tackle everything on my agenda today? Which meetings do I feel are going to bring the most passive income to my threshold? Which meetings today do I feel the least confident in, and how can I approve? Before I walk out the door for the day, I am as knowledge as possible for anything that I should encounter.
EXERCISE.
Getting some form of exercise is a must when being an entrepreneur. When I run, it gives me the adrenaline rush needed to approach the day. I come back ready to tackle everything and get in BEAST mode. Treat your body right before you can help anyone else.
I do not return phone calls before 9:00AM.
Unless the phone call has been previously scheduled, I do not return or take calls before 9:00AM. This gives me the time necessary to prepare for a productive phone conference. I also don’t want to sound groggy or completely disinterested from not allowing myself to give myself “ME” time. If you ever wondered why I sound so bubbly on the phone, this is why! haha.
I’m not afraid to say NO, as well as receive the answer NO.
Being able to say NO sets boundaries, while being able to take NO sparks passion. Some people think that I’m crazy when I say NO is actually one of my favorite words. When I hear the word NO, it just pushes me to find the answer YES. I know what my purpose is as an entrepreneur, and no one can stop that.
“If someone tells you No, you’re talking to the wrong person.”
I’m also not afraid to say NO when it just doesn’t work for me or my schedule. It doesn’t mean that you don’t care, it means that you put your own well being before others.. and guess what? You are sparking the PASSION in that person to go find their yes somewhere else.
So start your morning right and put yourself first! You are #1!
With love,
Chris Giovanni
instagram.com/chrisgiovannii
twitter.com/chrisgiovannii
Happy Saturday!
From base value, it’s very easy to get discouraged competing with millions of entertainers here in Los Angeles. We all dabble back and forth with the small fear of rejection in this business.
Being a manager in a competitive city with hundreds, I prepare myself not only physically but mentally. Through exercise, through positive reinforcement, through knowing that what God has prepared for me, is for ME in his timing.
Arm yourself with these few tips to help propel your business in show business:
Understand your style as an entertainer, and your unique goal plan.
This requires thinking outside of the box. Sure, everyone wants to be an actor in Los Angeles on a TV series. What kind of television series? Name a few actors similar to you — what are these people NOT doing on the big screen that you can come in and shine? Create a personal goal plan that is in-depth to help you stand individual from others.
How you choose to deliver your lines.
Believe it or not, how you chose to deliver your lines in a room can become a central focus of your branding. Do you have a unique voice? Pronounce your ‘a’ and ‘e’ differently than others? You may easily become known from standing out by innovating how you choose to deliver your auditions.
Building your contacts.
One method that will always make you more marketable in Hollywood is by who you know in this town. You may say how? Everyone networks in Hollywood. Certain connections will provide unique opportunities. Say you meet a director and he/she just loves what you bring to the table. They’re working on an undisclosed feature film. He/She informs you via text to audition, versus waiting for it to come out from your manager/agents. That kind of value cannot be bought. You are light years ahead of those who may not even know this project is being conceived. Imagine these kinds of connections times one-hundred. You’re set.
Keep shining like the star that you are.
Love,
Chris Giovanni
Twitter.com/chrisgiovannii
instagram.com/chrisgiovannii
Happy Sunday!
I’m a proponent of spreading motivation to others. I made a personal goal with myself to motivate at least 3 people around me daily. Whether it’s through the form of knowledge, sending support to a fellow friend, or encouragement. However I feel it’s best to covey, I show it.
I’ve noticed that we often sell ourselves short due to the perception of something not being achievable. “Why start a fitness clothing line, when there is Nike & Adidas?” “Why launch an EP, when I don’t have money?” “Hollywood is impossible, why move to LA when it’s so expensive and there are A-listers?”
Now don’t get me wrong, I have my days. The thought of failure often crosses my mind. But I’m also not afraid to fail…. Not being afraid of failure allows me to grow with my business, in my personal life, and achieve what I’ve been put on this earth to do. I’m here to inspire and create careers.
Feeling down today? Here’s what I do to stay motivated when things are looking tough:
I have a firm grasp of my personal goals.
When things are feeling a little dim, I take time to myself and recite my goals verbally. I speak them into existence — “I am on a mission right now to further my career as an entertainment manager” — “I am on track to being listed in Forbes 30 under 30.”
The positivity of knowing yourself and where you’re going mitigates any form of stress that may come your way.
I keep my side hustles strong.
Yes, my full-time job is an entertainment manager, but I’m also very focused on what I can do extra during free time. Whether I’m consulting on branding, writing articles such as these, partnering with brands for public speaking — If you carry multiple streams of income, you are motivated and your career will flourish.
I am highly realistic with my goals and expectations for myself.
Sure, I’d absolutely love to have the 3.4 million dollar production studio, but I’m realistic on when I will achieve that. Break your goals down to make it easier on yourself. Maybe a short-term goal is to save $20.00. Get headshots. Enroll in training. Then work your way to middle-tier goals, and up. You can accomplish a lot being wise with your time.
I do not allow negativity to dictate my day.
That means terminating all factors that may destruct your progress in being successful. A bad relationship, the news in the morning, someone who isn’t as motivated as you are. Anyone that I’m around carries the same positive energy and wants to be successful. You are your circle.
I lack care for what others think about me.
Unless it has to do with improving myself or my business, the thought of what others think does not matter to me. You’re an artist — be YOU. Be as goofy and loving as you want to be!
In the end, enjoy life and accomplish goals on your own terms. You are your best source of motivation!
Happy Monday!
As I glance out of my office window this morning, I reflect on how far I’ve come and where I am today.
Sure — I’m not completely where I want to be in life right now. I want 7+ offices around the world. I want a team of 100+ employees. I want to be on Forbes Magazine. These are big goals and in due time… I will accomplish them at my pace.
As a person, I learned to be thankful for what I’ve already accomplished… and the biggest victory ever was mastering my mental health.
In an industry where rejection is prominent and life is uncertain, it took years to understand my most valuable lesson…. your mental health is your #1 asset in life. Positive thinking, approaching things optimistically, eating healthy and exercising — I began to notice the correlation to success was as simple as telling myself “You got this” every morning.
Before becoming in tune with my mental health, anything that seemed impossible — I resisted. "My business will never develop. I can’t contend with CAA and ICM. An office is too expensive, why make the jump to do something so big? Am I capable of being a great manager?”
The time wasted in thinking these things held me back from reaching my full potential… and as I made the jump into the river, I started to swim in tune with the other Hollywood Agents & Managers in this town. I’m now living my dream under a business in my name, that I created 10 years ago. Who knew?… I knew because I told myself “YOU GOT THIS.”
So if you’re getting ready at home right now wondering how will it happen.. understand that you are in control of your destiny, and that no person, job, or outcome can stop the success that has been set for you. Allow today to be the day you stop worrying, accomplish your goals, and remember — YOU GOT THIS.
I had the pleasure of participating in an interview about Mental Health in Hollywood. Feel free to take a listen and motivate yourself to be the best version of you possible.
https://smarturl.it/mhealthyinhwood
All love,
Chris Giovanni
Happy Monday!
I wanted to tackle a common question that I receive pretty often. What is a talent manager, the purpose of one, and I need a manager at this time of my career?
While managers are quite similar to talent agents, managers serve a different purpose in shaping the career of an artist.
A talent manager is responsible for developing and molding the career of an entertainer. For example, an actor seeks management whey they need help in the following:
The actor has booked substantial work in the short film and indie market, and needs to cross-over into network television and feature film.
The actor has reached a peak in television, (meaning tons of co-stars and guest stars), but is having trouble crossing over into series regulars and lead roles in feature film. They need help with branding to stand out from their name competition.
The actor is having trouble getting an agent to sign them, and seeks the help of a manager to help build their talent to get onto the radar of a talent agent.
Reputable talent managers also have the ability to submit clients on breakdowns (acting roles) to help secure auditions in collaboration with a licensed agent. A great manager will act as the support for the actor who may not be at the top of the list for their agent.
How do you secure a talent manager?
A talent manager is more likely to take meetings with actors who are just beginning. If you do not have network credits or a solid amount of work booked, it is best to include a strong tape of your acting to show off your chops. Although, it is highly advisable that you seek a manager when you are READY. This means having a solid reel of indie work that you have earned on your own.
Do I need a talent manager?
Yes and no. This answer truly depends on where you are at currently in your career. If you are a series regular, a manager is helpful in the guidance of your career from hereon. An agent’s sole job is to get you the job. What is next for you is at the hands of a manager and/or publicist to develop. If you are just beginning in your career, a manager can help support you through getting network auditions and feature films.
Happy Friday!!
Unlike most of my blog post relating to acting and show business, I wanted to take a shift on this one. I want to talk about something that has been on my mind lately, and that is reprogramming your mind to stop accepting no as the final answer.
Growing up, I never felt I had a voice. While I was very extroverted and happy on the outside, deep down I second-guessed everything that came across my mind. I didn’t feel confident, and it showed in my personal relationships and in my work ethic. Even as I merged into my late-teens and early twenties, it took me a while to realize my worth and I found it in various steps:
I learned to be confident in what I bring to the table.
In any work or personal relationship, there will be highs and lows. I learned to prepare my work in the best way possible for MYSELF, and not in comparison with others who I felt were perfect. There is no perfect anything! It’s the best of what you can bring to the table.
I learned to acknowledge all milestones both small and large.
All small victories lead to a bigger one. I learned to praise myself for everything accomplish. non-union commercial, sag commercial, co-star, series regular. Great energy generates consistent success.
I learned to surround myself around those who are just as motivated.
The saying “You are who you surround yourself around” never really meant much to me until I was able to put it to the test. Having friends who are entrepreneurs, or fellow agents and manager sparked a drive in me to build and be successful.
I learned to stop accepting no from everyone.
Growing up, the word no meant “that’s it”. You didn’t follow up because hearing the word “No” meant you were done. I learned to find the solution, instead of accepting the “No”. Persistency became my best friend, and ultimately — apart of my hustle.
So next time you’re feeling down about your current career standing, remember — the only person that can dictate how successful you will be is YOU.
Love,
Chris Giovanni
twitter.com/chrisgiovannii
instagram.com/chrisgiovannii
Happy Tuesday!
Life happens — maybe you missed multiple auditions due to an intense work schedule. Maybe you haven’t been called back on an audition, or you’re one of those actors who ‘forgets’ to book out prior to a quick impromptu trip out of LA.
Now that you’re back and serious about your craft, your talent agent ignores all of your emails and calls. You’re getting those dreadful one-word answers that indicates a strong lack of excitement in representing you.
Here’s how to salvage your DAMAGED relationship with your agent/manager.
1) If you have missed a lot of auditions, provide clarity to the change.
As talent reps, we understand that you have to make money. We have to make money as well, which solely relies on you auditioning and booking the job. If you are now in the clear for auditions, explain to your agent the past issue and provide clarity for the solution moving forward.
2) If you haven’t made it to callbacks in a while, call your agent and strategize.
Maybe you need to switch up your training, or work on your strategy in the room. Circle back with your team and see if there is any feedback that you can get for your next audition. Ask your talent representative for an updated list of coaches you can try out. Proactivity always strengthens relationships in this town.
3) If you know you need to book out in the near future, do so within a 2-week span.
THIS IS SUPER IMPORTANT. Talent reps submit on projects weeks, sometimes months in advance. If we know your schedule — this prevent us from having to pull or decline auditions, which then perturbs casting and can potentially isolate us from receiving their jobs in the future. If this has happened multiple times and you still have an agent or manager, call and let them know that you now understand the severity and will do better in the future.
Like most relationships, a damaged client-agent relationship will take time to revert back to stability. But you can start the ground work today.
Chris Giovanni x
Happy Thursday!
So often we take for granted opportunities, that we miss the true lesson of experiencing them.
Sometimes hearing the word “NO” is exactly what we need for our own personal growth. Maybe you haven’t booked a job in 2 months, you can’t afford training, or your agent just dropped you from their roster.
The following scenarios will help you to channel the good in everything!
“It’s important to analyze the WIN in every situation.”
“You didn’t book the role — next time.”
The Win: You had the rare chance of performing in front of a respected casting director or producer. Chances are, you will be remembered for your great performance. You will be called back for future roles now that you have been cemented into the minds of that casting office.
—
“I don’t have enough money to invest in headshots or training.”
The Win: You’re fortunate enough to have set a major goal for yourself. You know exactly what is needed to help achieve that milestone. While you may not have to funds to do so right away, you will save so that you can align yourself with your career goals.
—
“An agent or manager declined representation. I don’t know what to do”
The Win: You know that you’re at least worthy of being represented. You have an idea of how to approach your next meeting. You now have a feel for the interview process, and will make adjustments to improve on your next big agent meeting.
—
“My agent dropped me post pilot season. I’m no longer being sent out on major films and TV shows.”
The Win: You now have time to reflect on the relationship with your former agent. What were the pros and cons? What did you LEARN from being represented? What casting offices were you exposed to — did you build a relationship with that office INDEPENDENT of that agent?
The importance of thinking positively increases your chances of success for the next time.
Be Happy. Have Fun.
xx Chris Giovanni
I am happy to announce that I will be live on Black Hollywood Live with host Danny Royce May 30th @ 2:00pm!
Join us as we chop it up about the entertainment industry, my personal story as a talent manager, tips, and more.
Stay tuned for more information and check back here for a live embedded video to the interview.
Love,
xx Chris Giovanni
UPDATE: Check out the LIVE video here at 2PM!
Happy Tuesday!
Pilot Season is almost done which means it's time for the industry break!
Auditions will be slow and breakdowns will be few and far between.
NOW is the perfect time to reflect and prepare for the upcoming episodic season 2019! Here are a few awesome tips to help you stay on the right foot!!
1. Review all of your headshots and see if you need any additional looks.
Take a look to see if your shots need updating. It's usually wise for an actor to 're-up' on headshots at least once each season. (Pilot and Episodic) Take away any headshots that didn't perform as well in the prior season.
2. Stay consistent with show pickup updates from The Hollywood Reporter.
Every actor should know which new pilots have been picked up by networks, and which shows have been canceled. The Hollywood Reporter provides groundbreaking updates as it happens. Know your shows. It will help you for auditions in episodic season.
3. If you booked any cool roles during pilot season, add it to your casting profiles.
New season = new footage. Choose your best scenes for your representatives to use on your casting profiles. ESPECIALLY if it's a new show that's just come out. Casting Directors rely on great footage to trust that you can book the job.
4. Make sure to take a vacation and recharge mentally.
It's mentally exhausting having to audition for multiple projects in such a short amount of time. You may have went on 50 auditions and booked 2. Take time to 'recharge your battery' and get back out there when the time is right. You have about one two months to do so!
5. Seek new representation if need be.
If you are not happy with your current team, make the switch and take meetings now. Ask fellow friends for recommendations, or use backstage.com to obtain a list of every current agent/manager in town. As episodic season is a time for most actors to build network credits, you want to be with a team who is motivated and enthusiastic about getting you out for auditions.
Stay ready so you don’t have to get ready!
Subscribe to my daily newsletter: smarturl.it/chrisgiovanni
I’m so proud to announce that I’m officially kicking off the Chris Giovanni YouTube Channel!
Unlike most channels that give the same ol’ industry advice, my channel will be interactive with tons of informative content. Not only will my viewers be challenged, but I’ll be challenged as well! Enjoy as I compete in various task and competitions that is sure to keep my audience on their toes!
I will give great industry advice, have lunch dates with my fellow industry friends and clients, FIND random people on the street and make them over into actors in 24 hours** , EXPOSE the realness of being a Hollywood manager, and lots more!
I’m also excited to implement my Confessions of A Hollywood Manager series into my channel!
Thank you for being a loyal follower & the games begin May 31st at 12P PST!
SUBSCRIBE: SMARTURL.IT/CHRISGIOVANNIONLINE
xx CG
Happy Friday!
You have your character-driven headshots, actively training in classes, and have strong clips on your profiles for submissions. Your talent representatives are firing away on submissions, however there is just one thing — you’re not getting that many theatrical auditions!
You may see a co-star or supporting role here and there, but you’re wondering to yourself: WHERE are the guest stars? The recurring work? the leads in films? What can YOU do as an actor to help further your own career that is slipping day by day?
A successful acting career not only lies in having great talent and material, but in creating genuine relationships in this town. Even as a talent manager, I have to maintain great relationships with casting directors, producers, directors — even make-up artist and hairstylist to secure opportunities not easily made available to me.
“As an actor, you have to keep your ear to the ground, know the right people, and make your OWN career happen.”
How do you network with industry professionals and build your relationships? Simple. You expose yourself to new events. You get involved with the SAG-Foundation. You engage on social media and most importantly, you leave an AMAZING performance in the audition room so casting remembers you for future jobs to come.
What do relationships have to do with acting? Often times, there are projects that casting directors, producers, and directors get weeks, sometimes MONTHS before it’s released to the public.
Even better, if you know writers directly — you may even have a role written for you in mind! You’re invited to events, you’re kept in the loop which contributes to the enhancement of your career!
Keep networking. Keep building. Your time is coming!
xx Chris Giovanni
Happy Sunday!
One of the more common questions that I often receive is exactly HOW to build a great relationship with your talent agent or manager. Most actors sign with an agent and have absolutely no idea on how to genuinely build a successful relationship. Out of sight, out of mind and then eventually — you’re dropped from their roster.
The key to an effective partnership with a talent rep is simple — communication. It’s a 50-50 partnership that requires both sides of the scale to be level. The following tips will help you to balance out your relationship with your team and further your career at light speed:
1. Effectively communicate your career goals at the beginning of the contract.
The moment that you are presented with a new agreement, take some time to create a list of career goals to send over:
Do you want to book a co-star in the first 2-months?
Do you enjoy public speaking and want to set up a small event?
Do you want to put out a 3 track EP by a certain time frame?
Are you in the first draft of a script? Do you need assistance with revisions?
Communicating your goals not only sets the foundation early in the partnership, but will instantly trigger in your team that you’re serious about making it in Hollywood. A closed mouth doesn’t get fed.
2. Provide your team with what is needed to get their job done.
Occasionally check in with your talent reps to see if there is anything that you need to update. Headshots, clips on your profile, maybe a new recorded track to help shop to music labels around town. Before pointing at your team for the lack of movement in your career, make sure that you are doing your part to make it easy on them!
3. Be mindful of which updates are worth sharing!
Agents and Managers operate differently in Hollywood. Some appreciate ALL updates, some only prefer updates that help them to do their job. Some great examples of updates to share with a talent rep: New relationships with industry professionals, new updates to material, (headshots, clips, etc.) invites to shows are great, INCREASE in social media engagement, new skills and languages learned, etc.
Don’t get carried away with updates. Wait until your relationship is strong enough with your reps to share other details that may not be as important.
4. Request calls and emails in duration.
Going hammer time on the phone is not the best way to build a relationship with your team, especially for things that lack urgency. Before emailing or calling for advice, gauge the importance of your question. Does it really require a phone call or email? Can I figure this out myself from a quick google search? Be resourceful before throwing in the towel!
5. Most importantly, DO YOUR PART!!!
Talent reps DREAM of a proactive client. The client who goes the extra mile to build personal relationships with casting. That outsources their own auditions. That sets studio time and invites the manager or agent to come listen and provide feedback. We should never be blindsided by anything because we already know what’s in the works. Every time we speak, there should be new updates from your end, and vice versa. If you’re just sitting at home waiting for auditions, that will be your career.
As always, feel free to send me any questions you have & I’ll tackle them!
With love,
Chris Giovanni xo
Hollywood — the place where an actor can go from a one line co-star, to a straight to series pilot in light speed! Well, the most luckiest actors, right?
Ask every actor that approaches Los Angeles. Everyone wants to be a series regular on a show. To be known for their craft, to make tons of money, and work consistently for the upcoming months and years to come.
But honestly, is that REALLY a career that you’re prepared for? Have you perfected your craft enough that you’re ready to tackle a series? Check out below and find out if so!
Are you CAPABLE of a series regular?
Being a series regular requires a lot of memorization, time management, and personal skill that extend WELL past shooting a short film. Say you’re on a series with a 8-10 episode order. You may have a week, or even a few days to knock down 30-50 pages plus of script and dialogue. How well can you break down a script now? Are you able to get off-book of 9-12 pages of sides with ease for an audition? CAN you connect with your CHARACTER? If not, you should probably take some time to work with your coach before approaching a series regular.
Are you EMOTIONALLY ready for a series regular?
A series regular comes with tons of emotional battles. While the glamorous aspect of being a series regular comes with tons of press and notoriety, there are behind-the-scenes battles that often take place on a show. Are you emotionally ready to handle a show not being picked up? The potential of being replaced by another actor (I know a well-known actress who was replaced at a table read by HER cast mate from a previous series.) If you’re approaching a series regular and you’re in the mindset of a winner, and that anything can happen — go for it.
Are you FINANCIALLY ready for a series regular?
Before you are selected for a series regular, your team will negotiate a test option or offer for you to go before the networks. Your deal and how much you’re paid is contingent upon your experience as an actress, your relevancy, and how much value you would bring to the role. If you’re NEW to the series regular role, more than likely you’re not going to get the BEST offer possible. You may not get life-changing money. Depending on your financial status, it may just be enough to make ends meet. Keep in mind that the networks will hold exclusivity over you for some time, so you may not be able to work a lot of different jobs. Your life is now that show. Have a business established. Many side ventures such as selling clothes, books, consulting — anything that will help bring additional sources of income is vital. (but that’s a post for another day.)
And most importantly, remember: You are not in a race to be in a series. There are new pilots coming out all year with the influx in distributors. Even if you have to start with an under five, a co-star here and there — make your acting career fun for you.
See you on the big screen.
-Chris Giovanni x
ig: @chrisgiovannii
Happy Saturday!
Yesterday marked the beginning of a very busy season ahead of us. Pilots have been ordered, and production needs qualified actors to take on the series regulars. My job is to find those qualified actors, develop them, and get them in front of casting directors to perform!
As I hammer away at four pilot scripts with my Starbucks this morning, I wanted to quickly go over how to get discovered by me for Pilot Season. Yes.. I’m busy. Yes, my focus is on my current clients. But there are also some looks that I lack on my roster, which is where you CAN get discovered by me.
Now if you don’t have a resume, or you haven’t had much time to get comfortable in front of the camera — Pilots Season probably isn’t the time for you to start. But if you have been working your ass off, getting your short film credits, and working the town to your best — I’m all ears.
Have all of your material together. You should have professional headshots, a solid acting resume, as well as a list of previous bookings that are of leading or support capacity. Make sure that you physically attach your material to your resume. Do not send Google links, as often times — we don’t have permission to view, and we won’t ask to get it.
Know the shows that are coming out. While I understand it’s impossible to learn of everything before it comes out, you should have at least an idea of 1-2 shows that are making it’s way to the networks. Be knowledgable of the industry you want to conquer. An actor that puts just as much research into this industry, is one I want on my roster.
Be SAG-ELIGIBLE and ready to join at any moment. Theatrical is a union market, which means our actors need to be SAG in good standing for most roles, for at the very least — SAG-ELIGIBLE. Some casting offices won’t bring in an actor who isn’t at least SAG-ELIGIBLE due to the compliance with the union. Do your work to become SAG-ELIGIBLE. (Kids are the exception due to being young, cute, and often —inexperienced.
Relax and keep your email short. I know most are feeling the antsy, “I’m not represented for Pilot Season 2019” jitters. That’s OK! The season has just began and there is still some time to get represented. You have to innovate your approach. Create a catchy Subject line to draw in management offices. Throw in a recent network booking. Ask your friends who are signed to refer you to me. Now is the time that you operate with tact and play chess with your relationships.
Be confident in your approach and don’t just sign because you need SOMEONE. Sometimes, No representation is better than having representation. If you’re having trouble getting repped this season — take some time to form your material and brand and try again after the season. There is always episodic season!
With love,
Chris Giovanni, Hollywood Manager
With episodic season slowing down, it's almost that time again for managers and agents to start hunting for new talent. Pilot Season is starting to etch it's way into our minds & certain looks need to be filled on our clientele roster.
If you are without representation or simply looking for a change in team next year -- NOW is the time to start sharpening your sword. You want to make sure that you go into Pilot Season 2019 with the dream team -- the team who is going to fight hard to get you in the room at all hours of the night.
While you work on getting any last-minute credits, or updating your good ol' headshots & reel, here are a couple of standout tips to catch the interest of a manager:
A manager appreciates a proactive client.
When I receive an unsolicited submission from an actor, I would like to see that you have done the work. Granted, you're not going to have access to the guest stars and series regular work all the time. That's especially if you do not have representation already. But show me your chops. Book a nice short film that really shows off your acting range. A couple of strong pieces can justify calling you in for a meeting.
A manager loves a resourceful client.
Nothing is more impressive than a client who is on top of their industry relationships and is resourceful. Ultimately -- this is your entertainment career. No one is going to work harder for your career than yourself. Create an excel sheet of every industry professional that you know. From the casting directors, to the producers, to the make-up artist -- to the photographer who gives you 25% off for being a returning customer. A client that is aware of the industry is golden.
A manager desires a client who communicates.
The saying "The squeaky wheel gets the grease." is the mantra of manager-client relationships. I personally prefer an actor of all trades. An actor that can sing, write, dance, produce, develop, create -- screams money and success. We're in an industry that wants everything for less now. Pick up different skillsets to impress managers. Think about it: Why go for the actor AND stunt double, when you can get an actor who knows HOW to do their own stunts?
Stay motivated and remember: everyone eventually has their dance with success. Your time is coming.
Good luck and #bookit.