Mastering the Art of Tracking Gigs!

Track Your Gigs

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Track Your Gigs 〰️

Image: @imaginat

For talent, managing multiple auditions, rehearsals, and performances can be a daunting task. Staying organized and effectively tracking your acting gigs is crucial to ensure you never miss an opportunity and maintain a smooth career progression. Here’s how you can master the art of tracking your gigs.

1. Choose the Right Tools

Selecting the right tools is the first step in tracking your acting gigs. There are several apps and platforms designed to help actors stay organized:

• Actors Access: A casting website that also allows you to track your submissions and auditions.

• Google Calendar: An easily accessible calendar tool to manage your schedule and set reminders.

• Evernote: A note-taking app that can help you keep track of audition details, scripts, and rehearsal notes.

• Pipeline Deals: A CRM to track booked gigs, add contacts, and agencies, and even close jobs once you get paid.

2. Create a Detailed Schedule

Maintaining a detailed schedule is essential for managing your time effectively. Include all your auditions, rehearsals, and performances, along with important deadlines. Use a calendar tool like Google Calendar to set reminders for each event, ensuring you never miss an important date.

3. Maintain an Audition Log

An audition log helps you keep track of all your auditions, including the details of the roles, the casting directors, and the outcomes. Your log should include:

• Date of Audition: The date you auditioned.

• Project Name: The name of the film, TV show, or theater production.

• Role: The character you auditioned for.

• Casting Director: The name of the casting director.

• Outcome: Whether you were called back, booked the role, or not selected.

4. Track Your Bookings

Once you start booking gigs, it’s important to keep track of all your confirmed roles. Include details such as:

• Project Name: The name of the project.

• Role: The character you’re playing.

• Rehearsal Dates: Schedule of all rehearsals.

• Performance Dates: Schedule of all performance or shoot dates.

• Contact Information: Names and contact details of the director, producer, and other key personnel.

My favorite app for this is Pipleline Deals. It’s a powerful CRM (customer relationship management tool). I track all of my bookings by date so when I get my checks I can then mark them paid. This is helpful since I don’t get paid for 30-90 days. I can review past jobs and easily follow up with agents or clients to check on payment.

5. Use Time-Tracking Software

Time-tracking software can help you manage your time effectively, especially if you’re balancing multiple projects. Tools like Toggl or Clockify allow you to track the time spent on each activity, whether it’s rehearsing, performing, or commuting between gigs.

6. Regularly Update Your Progress

Make it a habit to update your schedule and logs regularly. Whether it’s at the end of each day or after every significant event, keeping your records up-to-date ensures you stay organized and prepared.

7. Network and Maintain Contacts

Building and maintaining a network is crucial in the acting industry. Keep a contact list of casting directors, producers, directors, and fellow actors. Note down details of your interactions, such as meetings, auditions, and feedback. This will help you follow up appropriately and maintain professional relationships.

8. Review and Reflect

After each gig, take time to review and reflect on your performance and experience. Consider what went well, what challenges you faced, and how you can improve for future projects. Keeping a journal or using a note-taking app like Evernote can help you document your thoughts and progress.

9. Stay Informed and Prepared

Regularly check casting websites and industry news to stay informed about upcoming opportunities. Prepare your headshots, resume, and showreel in advance so you can quickly respond to casting calls and auditions.

Conclusion

Tracking your acting gigs effectively requires a blend of the right tools, disciplined organization, and proactive networking. By implementing these strategies, you can manage your time better, seize opportunities, and build a successful acting career. Mastering the art of tracking your acting gigs not only helps you stay organized but also ensures you are always prepared for your next big break.