Social Survival Skills for Incredibly Gifted Actors (You)

What about that title, right? I mean, after all if you know you’re good, then you’re bound to feel a little annoyed here and there with the people you work with. Maybe they’re less experienced, need more takes and more coaching along the way. If you’ve found yourself dealing with this more than a handful of times, you might want really gain from our little tid-bits of advice - Social Survival Skills for Incredibly Talented Actors. *note: if you’re newer to the scene, you might have encountered a few of these along the way. And if so-  may have been ‘told’ a thing or two. Don’t let it dampen your confidence. Try to brush it off and enjoy the rest of this post. There’s plenty for everyone.

The truth is, unless you’re performing a monologue, putting on a one man show and self directing, you’re most likely going chances are you'll be interacting with other people and it’s important to do well regardless of their talent or behavior.

What does that mean? It means bringing your abilities and honor to the performance. No matter what kind of performance you’re faced with, it’s your job to deliver and treat people with respect.

Nobody wants to work with an arrogant know-it-all or a timid introvert. Getting to know the people in your cast is essential so you can be prepared. (if you're cast alongside your worst enemy, don’t stress it - just treat him or her respectfully so that you can both reach your goal.) You are professionals. So act like it.

For the seasoned - or naturally gifted performers - you don’t own the world. And each role is necessary. Lording your experience over the rest of the cast and crew will only divide the team, dampen creativity and smash confidence. Think it was slow moving before? Get ready for some serious speedbumps.

Instead, if you feel that someone is lagging behind or struggling, offer your help without arrogance, and you’ll both have an opportunity to learn.

And if you’re the one needing to learn, speak up. Be honest about what you know is a weakness or struggle and ask for help. If you’re not being treated respectfully, address your co-stars and then the director if progress isn’t being made. It’s not survival of the fittest. It’s your job. Don’t vote yourself off the island by not speaking up for yourself.

Everyone’s in this together - and if you get caught up thinking you’re God’s gift to the show or the main star’s slave, you sell out both on your dignity - as well as your ability to develop as a performer.  

For more tips and information, contact us at the New York Acting School for Film and Television, where we provide classes, coaching and more!