Avoiding Conflict On The Set

Once you arrive on the set, there are lots of people to meet. From the cast to the crew, you’ll encounter many different types of personalities and it’s important that you find a way to work together for the successful completion of the project. Sometimes this is easily done. But unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for conflict to break out and drama – the kind that’s not scripted - to ensue.

Whether you’re a new or seasoned actor, conflict on the set can cost you jobs, your reputation and eventually your career. When Isaiah Washington engaged in a heated argument with cast members on the set of Grey’s Anatomy, the situation escalated, spilled over into the media and eventually resulted in the actor’s termination.

It’s important to remember that no matter what, you’ve been hired to do a job – which means you should strive for professionalism at all times. Your career will be far more successful if you develop a reputation as someone who’s easy to get along with and works will with others.

Here are a few ways to avoid conflict when you begin your Hollywood career:

• Don’t discuss issues with the cast and crew while you’re angry. If you become upset, excuse yourself from the set and take some time to calm down.
• Don’t chastise other members of the cast and crew. If someone is causing a problem, advise the director or producer and let him or her handle the matter.
• Be a team player – it’s not just about you.
• Be considerate of others on the set, regardless of their position or role.
• Leave business related issues, such as salary, to your agent or manager to handle.
• Remember when your mother said, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” That’s definitely a rule to live by on set.

Want to know how other actors handle conflict on the set? Visit the online community at http://www.StarSearchCasting.com to connect with new and experienced actors and get advice on industry-related issues.

THE BUSINESS OF ACTING: AGENTS AND MANAGERS FEES

One of the biggest advantages of our website is that thousands of actors, dancers, singers and models are able to audition for and book really great jobs without an agent. However, many of our members will eventually get representation and it’s important to be aware of some of the business practices that go along with signing with an agent or manager.

There are lots of perks that come with a career in the entertainment industry. One of those perks is the money. An actor that works regularly can make a great living doing what they love. Many SAG actors (members of Screen Actors Guild) make an average of $1000 a day while working on a major motion picture. But while the money can be a huge draw, it’s important to be aware of where a lot of your money goes. Aside from taxes, union dues and other expenditures like headshots, classes or any other valuable investments in your career – first and foremost you have to pay the people that represent you.

Just like any other industry, in entertainment there’s a cost for doing business. Agents charge a commission for any work that you book. Most will charge on average 10-15% of your gross earnings - that means before any other fees, such as taxes are taken out. If you have a manger, in addition to your agent, that can be an additional 10-15%. Some agents even charge fees for other services such as couriers (although these fees are generally miniscule.)

Often when we think of Hollywood careers, we think of the glitz, glamour, fortune and fame. But it’s important to look at the entire picture when you’re considering a career in the entertainment industry. It is a fantastic industry to work in, but it’s important to learn about all of the aspects of the business that face you on the journey ahead.

If you have questions about agency commissions, or any other questions related to the business of the industry, feel free to drop me a line or visit the message board on my website to talk to other actors, singers, dancers and models that are finding their way in the industry.

And check back tomorrow for more information on choosing an agent! Thanks for reading my blog!