A common question I hear all the time is, “But, how do I get to know [so and so]? When/how does it all happen?”
Unfortunately (yet excitingly), there is no one answer or path for these questions. Yet, a common answer I’ve heard among many ‘how it all started’ stories - Just Say Hello!
After a very insightful conversation with Dustin Cross of Dustin Cross Designs (podcast episode 2), yet again, another story of creating opportunity from a simple hi. A moment of salutations creating an open door. Of course, it goes without saying that authenticity is always key here, as well. Along with authenticity, confidence in our own talent, training, and self-worth gives the courage we need to put ourselves forward.
In my experience, most people in any industry are more then willing to help out or want to get to know eager, new talent. And many times, are flattered by the admiration. I think we have to remember that we are in an industry that is forever evolving, and that any one can be the next chapter in a never-ending art form. It is very inspiring to remember that even the most prolific artists started at the beginning of the ladder of which they have climbed.
With today’s social media, promoting our own art couldn’t be easier. When you feel that you have a confident clip of what you feel you know is worth sharing then share and tag and tag and tag; common hashtags, locations, and prominent people who should see it (composers, directors, music directors, choreographers, ect).
Many times, I see singing actors take the normal path of auditions after auditions and classes after classes - and YES this is a path toward showing and ultimately selling our art. Furthermore, I argue and encourage that there is no one path to success in our world — what other paths are paved (or not paved yet) out there for finding your success and ultimate dreams? Give yourself the permission to find what your own, unique path is.