Entertainment Industry Question 78: Can I call people for work now, even though I’ve been out of touch them?
Jessica’s Answer: The person who asked me this knows how I feel about re-establishing relationships first. While that is usually the case, that would mean that you would have had to re-establish in April, before the up-fronts.This person did not. This person...
Heather Tyson
Thank you again for the awesome seminar yesterday. I felt like you were talking RIGHT TO ME. In fact, I almost ALWAYS feel like you are talking RIGHT TO ME. Is it just that all of these things are so universal for those of us trying to make a living in this creative,...
Entertainment Industry Question 77: Is it true that if I take a vacation I’ll get called for work?
Jessica’s Answer: The question continued..."because I haven't taken a vacation in two years, nor have I gotten much work. I really need a vacation!"I'm going to answer this question with a story... When I graduated college, my graduation present was a trip to Club...
Chris
I found the career coaching by Jessica Sitomer to be transformative. If someone had told me that Jessica could help me overcome my insecurity about contacting strangers when looking for work I would have signed up. If someone had told me that Jessica could help me...
Entertainment Industry Question 76: You say I’m 100% responsible for my career but I feel I can’t control anything. What do I do?
Jessica’s Answer: True, there are very few things in the entertainment industry that you can truly control. When you look at other industries, though, I'm sure you'll find plenty of people who struggle with the same issue; the stock market, changing technology and...
Beth
"I am very grateful for all of your suggestions. I did nearly everything you said and about one year later, I am working 2nd unit on a Jim Carrey film. You have practical and useful advice and really have an insightful understanding of this business. Thank you...
Entertainment Industry Question 75: Why do your answers sometimes contradict themselves?
Jessica’s Answer: This is what I get for asking for something to sink my teeth into. Here goes...While it may seem that my answers sometimes contradict themselves...For example: In one situation I inform you how to be extremely preparedIn another situation I suggest...
Entertainment Industry Question 74: How do I deal with the resentment I feel towards people who are working?
Jessica’s Answer: You've made the choice to feel resentment. You could have chosen to feel inspired by them, happy for them, excited for their success, motivated by their success, curious as to how they accomplished their goals... But instead, you've chosen...
Entertainment Industry Question 73: Why should I go to the LA Film Fest if I don’t have a project in it or know anyone who does?
Jessica’s Answer: Well, let me count the reasons: 1. You need to meet people!2. It's an opportunity to research the filmmakers beforehand and craft specific questions for them in order to start a business relationship3. You need to meet people!!4. People always ask me...
Entertainment Industry Question 72: I’ve recently suffered the loss of my spouse, is this something I should share?
Jessica’s Answer: First, I want to express my sincere sadness for your loss. And that is what will happen, either people won't know what to say, or they'll immediately feel sympathy. How can we not? As humans, losing someone we love is one of our greatest fears. So,...
Entertainment Industry Question 71: Is it appropriate to approach someone after they’ve spoken on a panel or Q&A?
Jessica’s Answer: It is appropriate IF you are being professional. Consider these tips: 1. Know what your objective is before approaching the person (be sure it's something he/she can say yes to, or a comment that is appropriate and MEMORABLE).2. Be aware of the body...
Entertainment Industry Question 70: Would you represent me? (asked at the agent panel I spoke on)
Jessica’s Answer: Even though this isn't my typical format (taking a question someone asked a panel of agents as opposed to submitting directly to me), I felt compelled to address it, so that you will learn from this mistake.The actress who asked the question,...
Entertainment Industry Question 69: Should I do a sex scene for a non-union production?
Jessica’s Answer: I have to apologize to the girl who sent this, for making her wait until Question 69... I couldn't resist. Wow, this is not the kind of career advice that I ever thought I'd be giving. Definitely NOT in the career coach manual. Just goes...
Entertainment Industry Question 68: What do I need to know about the Upfronts?
Jessica’s Answer: Here's the Wikipedia description of the upfront: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UpfrontIn the North American television industry, an upfront is a meeting of television network executives with the press and, more important, with major advertisers. It is...