Make This Summer Your Acting Career Game-Changer

Hey there, amazing actors! ✨

Summer's just around the corner, and while many folks are planning beach days and barbecues, I want to chat about something that could totally transform your acting career: using these sunny months strategically.

I'm always reminding actors in my coaching sessions that Your acting career isn't something that happens TO you; it's something you BUILD, one intentional brick at a time. Summer gives you that magical gift of time and space to lay down some seriously strong foundation.

Why Summer is Your Secret Weapon

While others are chilling by the pool with a frothy drink in hand (of course nothing wrong with that – self-care is important!), you have this golden opportunity to leap ahead. Think about it – fewer people competing for classes, workshops filling up more slowly, and industry folks who aren't quite as swamped with submissions. It's like the universe is giving you a little edge!

But here's the kicker – you need a PLAN. Not just vague "I'll work on my craft" intentions, but specific, actionable steps that will move your career forward. Let me break down some game-changing ways to make this summer count:

1. Level Up with a Specialized Class

Summer is THE perfect time to finally take that class you've been eyeing. Maybe it's:

• An intensive voice workshop to finally nail those accent skills
• On-camera technique to refine how you present on screen
• Stage combat or movement to add physical skills to your toolbox
• Improv or comedy to sharpen your timing and spontaneity

Many acting studios offer summer intensives specifically designed to pack months of learning into a few concentrated weeks. Check out Actorsite’s incredible summer programs for youth and adult actors that could transform your approach to the craft: Actorsite.com

2. Create Your Own Content (Finally!)

Been putting off that short film idea? That web series concept you scribbled down months ago? That one-person show you've been mulling over? Summer is YOUR TIME.

Here's a simple action plan:

1. Set aside 2 hours each week dedicated to writing (your worth it!)
2. Connect with filmmaker friends (they're looking for summer projects too!)
3. Schedule a table read with actor friends by mid-summer (a calendar date brings accountability!)
4. Film during those gorgeous long summer evenings (longer daylight!)
5. Edit and prepare for fall festival submissions (what an inspiring goal!)

Creating your own work not only gives you fantastic footage for your reel, but it also allows you to showcase your creativity and the specific type of role you know you’re perfect for (but just maybe haven’t had the opportunity to play yet - now is your time!). Plus, there's something incredibly empowering about bringing your own vision to life.

3. Headshot Refresh

Let's be honest – those headshots from two years ago? It might be time for an update. Your headshot is your calling card, and keeping it current is non-negotiable.

Make this a summer project with clear steps:

1. Research photographers
2. Create a headshot lookbook with hair/wardrobe ideas and vibe so the photographer knows what you’re looking for
3. Plan & prepare your wardrobe 
4. Create a playlist that brings out your authentic energy
5. Schedule your session (get it on the calendar)
6. Update ALL your casting profiles with the fresh images

A fresh, current headshot that genuinely represents YOU can make all the difference in catching a casting director's eye.

4. Strategic Agent/Manager Outreach

Summer can be a fantastic time to connect with representation. Many agencies use this slightly quieter season to reorganize their rosters and consider new talent.

Your summer agent strategy:

1. Research agencies that represent actors at your career stage
2. Update your materials (resume, reel, online profiles…)
3. Craft personalized submission letters
4. Attend agent/manager workshops
5. Follow up thoughtfully on any connections you make

Need support building a strategy? My career consults can help you find the right path forward: Coach Kimberly - Career Consultation Info

5. Industry Research Deep Dive

Knowledge is power in this business. Use some of those summer evenings to become a student of the industry. Specifically:

• Follow and engage with casting directors on social media (authentically, not in a stalker creeper way of course!)
• Read the trades (Hollywood Reporter, Deadline, Variety) to stay current on projects in development (checkout online versions or subscribe to get them in the mail)
• Research the shows you'd be perfect for – who casts them? Who writes them?
• Study actors with similar types/careers to yours – what's their path been?
• Listen to industry podcasts during your commute or workout

Being informed sets you apart. It shows you're not waiting to be picked—you’re building with purpose. The more you understand how the business actually works, the more strategically you can position yourself within it. 

6. Build Your Support System

Acting can be a rollercoaster, emotionally and professionally. This career can feel lonely. The right community changes everything. Use this summer to cultivate relationships with fellow actors who uplift and inspire you.

• Organize weekly scene study meetups in the park
• Start a monthly actor mastermind group to support one another
• Attend industry mixers and events
• Volunteer for student films to meet emerging directors
• Plan a zoom reading of a play or film script with some actors  friends (actors gotta act)
• Take a fellow actor out for coffee just to connect

The connections you nurture now might lead to collaborations, referrals, and emotional support that sustains your career for years to come.

7. The Summer of Goals

The actors who succeed aren't just talented – they're strategic. It’s not about vague intentions—it’s about actions that move the needle. Set some specific goals. No,  not "I want to win an Oscar" type goals...but rather actionable achievable steps to attaining your overall goals:

This summer, set 3-5 specific, measurable goals with deadlines. For example:

• Submit to 15 casting calls that match my type by August 31
• Record and edit 2 new monologues for my online profiles by July 15
• Connect with 3 directors whose work I admire by sending thoughtful notes by end of summer
• Complete one acting intensive or workshop series focused on my growth area
• Update all online profiles with consistent branding by August 1st

Writing these down (and maybe even sharing them with an accountability buddy) dramatically increases your chances of actually accomplishing them!

The Magic is in the Follow-Through

Here's my tough love moment, friends: making lists feels great, but DOING THE WORK is what changes careers.

Pick 2-3 things from this list that resonate most with where you are right now. Schedule them in your calendar like non-negotiable appointments. Tell someone else about your plans to create accountability.

While others let summer slip through their fingers, YOU can emerge in fall with new skills, connections, materials, and momentum. The actor who remains diligent and consistent with their craft and business approach is the one who ultimately books the role.

Your level of preparation and professionalism and how you approach your career development is key to your success. Be the actor who shows up prepared, engaged, and ready to make the most of every opportunity.

Your Summer Acting Challenge

I'm challenging you to commit to making this your breakthrough summer. 

If you need guidance, accountability, or want support building a smart plan for your goals, I'm here. Coaching isn’t just about craft—it’s about helping you align your choices with the career you want.

👉 coachkimberlycrandall.com

Let's make this the summer that future-you looks back on and thinks, "THAT'S when everything started to shift."  You've got this, and I'm cheering you on every step of the way!

Shine bright, 

Kimberly