Being an actor isn’t easy. It may take a lot of auditions, time, and patience to land that role that will make you a star. Until then, you should look into side jobs to ensure financial stability. Many actors struggle financially, but with the right plan in place, you don’t have to.
This list of side hustles is your ultimate guide to making it in the feast-or-famine world of entertainment.
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Top 25 Flexible Side Jobs for Actors
Let’s explore 25 flexible side hustles for aspiring actors they can manage alongside auditions and acting classes.
Entertainment Industry-Related Gigs
You don’t have to look outside your industry for gigs. There’s plenty within the bounds of Hollywood (or any wood, for that matter).
1. Voice-Over Artist
Put your vocal talents and acting skills to work narrating audiobooks, dubbing foreign films, or voicing animated characters. Voice-over work offers flexible recording schedules and the potential for lucrative pay rates. Many actors find this a natural extension of their existing skills.
2. Brand Ambassador
Use your charisma and performance to represent brands at events or trade shows. This gig often involves engaging with the public. It’s perfect for outgoing, extrovert actors who are comfortable improvising and speaking publicly. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to work around auditions and rehearsals.
3. Party Character
Think of it as yet another acting job. Bring joy to children’s parties or corporate events with cosplay. This side job lets you flex your improvisational muscles and practice maintaining character for extended periods. Weekend and evening availability makes it ideal for actors with weekday commitments.
4. Teaching Acting or Dance
Share your expertise with other aspiring actors through private lessons or group classes. This gig not only provides a steady income but also helps you stay sharp in your craft. It’s best for those who have some acting experience. You may find teaching a rewarding way to give back to the community.
5. Modeling
While not suitable for everyone, modeling can provide good pay and valuable on-camera experience. From print ads to runway shows, various opportunities exist for actors with the right look and personality. Success in modeling can also lead to increased visibility within the entertainment industry. Create an online portfolio that highlights your best shots, and be sure to choose one of these best website hosting services for artists to make sure you stand out.
Creative and Artistic Gigs
Actors are usually creative people. Why not channel some of that energy into well-paying gigs like graphic design, writing, and video making? There are plenty of opportunities to make money online. Here are some of these options.
6. Freelance Writer
Put your storytelling skills to work crafting articles, blog posts, or even scripts. Many actors find success and can make money writing about the entertainment industry, leveraging their insider knowledge. This flexible gig allows you to work from anywhere with an internet connection.
7. Video Editor
Your understanding of pacing and visual storytelling makes you well-suited for video editing work. From actor reels to social media content, there’s a growing demand for skilled editors. This job often allows for remote work and flexible hours.
8. Podcaster
One of the best ways for actors to make money is through podcasting. Create and host your show on topics you’re passionate about. While building an audience takes time, successful podcasts can generate income through sponsorships and advertising. The flexible recording schedule makes it ideal for actors.
9. YouTuber
Similar to podcasting, YouTube offers a platform to showcase your talents and build a following. Whether you’re creating acting tutorials, vlogs about the industry, or entirely unrelated content, YouTube provides a flexible creative outlet with monetization potential. Explore more creative ideas to make money on YouTube.
10. Social Media Manager
Your understanding of personal branding and audience engagement translates well to managing social media accounts for businesses or other performers. This role often allows for remote work and flexible hours, perfect for fitting around auditions and rehearsals.
Flexible Service-Based Gigs
These jobs prioritize adaptable schedules and often provide opportunities for diverse experiences.
11. Personal Assistant
Work for high-profile individuals or busy professionals, managing schedules and handling various tasks. This role can offer networking opportunities within the entertainment industry and often allows for flexible hours.
12. Virtual Assistant
Provide administrative support remotely for businesses or entrepreneurs. This job offers maximum flexibility in terms of location and hours worked, ideal for actors with unpredictable schedules.
13. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
Animal lovers rejoice! Becoming a dog walker or pet sitter is a gig that offers flexible scheduling and the bonus of getting exercise and fresh air between acting commitments. Building a loyal client base can provide steady income and the ability to easily adjust your availability for auditions.
14. Rideshare Driver
Set your hours and work as much or as little as you want with companies like Uber or Lyft. This job allows you to fit driving shifts around auditions and rehearsals. Some actors even use their time behind the wheel to practice monologues or run lines.
15. Food Delivery Driver
Similar to rideshare driving, food delivery through apps like DoorDash or Grubhub offers ultimate flexibility. Choose your delivery areas and times, with the added benefit of often being able to cash out your earnings daily.
Hospitality and Customer Service Gigs
As cliche as it sounds, actors often turn to gigs in the service industry to make extra money.
16. Server
Waiting tables have long been a go-to for actors, and for good reason. Flexible scheduling, the potential for good tips, and the ability to swap shifts make this an ideal side job. Evening and weekend work often leaves days free for auditions and classes.
17. Bartender
Mixing drinks can lead to high earnings through tips, especially for charismatic actors. Evening and weekend work aligns well with most audition schedules. Some actors find that the social nature of bartending helps them stay sharp with character work and improvisation.
18. Barista
Early morning shifts at coffee shops leave afternoons and evenings free for acting pursuits. This job offers a consistent schedule with the potential for tips and usually provides a more relaxed environment compared to some other service industry roles.
19. Event Host
Put your stage presence to work by hosting corporate events, weddings, or other gatherings. This gig often pays well and allows you to network with a diverse range of people. The primarily weekend-based schedule works well for many actors.
20. Caterer
Work flexible, event-based shifts, preparing and serving food. This job offers variety in terms of locations and types of events, keeping things interesting. Some actors find catering business particularly useful for networking within the industry at film premieres or award shows.
Other Flexible Gigs
There are many other employment opportunities for struggling actors.
21. Temp Work
Take on short-term office assignments through staffing agencies. This allows you to gain industry experience while maintaining a flexible schedule. Many temp jobs offer the ability to accept or decline assignments based on your availability.
22. Personal Trainer
Leverage your physical fitness (often a requirement for actors) to help others achieve their health goals. Set your hours and rates, with the potential for high earnings as you build a client base. Becoming a personal trainer can also help you stay in shape for physically demanding roles.
23. Real Estate Assistant
Support real estate agents with administrative tasks and property showings. This role offers insight into a potentially lucrative industry and often provides flexible hours. Some actors find that their natural ability to connect with people translates well to the world of real estate.
24. Tutor
Share your knowledge in academic subjects or test preparation. Set your rates and schedule, allowing you to tutor online or in person. This job will enable you to flex your communication skills while helping others succeed.
25. Transcriptionist
Work remotely transcribing audio files into written documents. This job offers flexible hours and the ability to work from anywhere with a computer and internet connection. Some actors find transcription work helps improve their listening skills and typing skills.
Why Actors Need Side Jobs
The glamorous facade of showbiz often conceals a harsh reality: consistent work in acting can be elusive, even for the most talented performers. The industry’s inherent unpredictability means that even after landing a coveted role, actors frequently face extended periods without a steady income. This financial rollercoaster can wreak havoc on one’s mental health and ability to pursue their craft.
The Realities of an Acting Career
Acting jobs don’t come by so quickly, especially for rookies just starting. Even established actors can find themselves facing unexpected dry spells. This inherent instability makes it challenging to budget effectively or plan for the future. Moreover, pursuing an acting career is expensive. Headshots, acting classes, travel expenses for auditions – all these costs can add up.
Benefits of Maintaining a Side Job
Side gigs can be a great idea for actors for a variety of reasons:
- Financial Stability: A steady income stream allows you to cover basic living expenses.
- Flexibility for Auditions: Many side jobs allow you to set your schedule. This makes it easy to prioritize those last-minute casting calls.
- Skill Development: Certain side gigs can help you hone valuable skills that translate directly to your acting career, for example, public speaking or improvisation.
- Networking Opportunities: You never know when a chance encounter at your side job might lead to your next big break. You might meet professional actors, directors, or producers.
How to Choose the Right Side Job for You
While you pursue your acting dreams, follow the guidelines below to find that perfect side gig that pays your bills.
Assessing Your Skills and Interests
Start by taking inventory of your non-acting talents and passions. Are you a whiz with social media? Perhaps managing accounts for small businesses would be a natural fit. Love animals? Dog walking or pet sitting might bring you joy between auditions.
Considering Time Commitment and Flexibility
The golden rule of side jobs for actors: flexibility is king. Your primary focus remains your acting career. Consider these factors:
- How much advance notice do you typically get for auditions?
- Are you able to easily swap shifts or find coverage if needed?
- Does the job allow for extended leaves of absence if you book a longer-term acting gig?
Evaluating Earning Potential
While passion is essential, you need a job that pays the bills. Research average pay rates for different gigs in your area. Keep in mind that some jobs, like waiting tables or bartending, may offer lower base pay but high earning potential through tips.
Tips for Balancing Acting and Side Jobs
Juggling your passion for acting with the demands of a side job requires finesse, but with the right strategies, you can thrive in both arenas.
Time Management Strategies
Embrace the power of scheduling. Invest in a robust calendar system (digital or physical) to track auditions, rehearsals, work shifts, and personal commitments.
Block out dedicated time for acting-related tasks like memorizing lines, researching roles, or updating your demo reel. Treat these blocks equally as you would a paid gig or audition.
Learn to maximize your “in-between” time. Waiting for your next rideshare passenger? Run through a monologue. Commuting to your barista job? Listen to industry podcasts or audiobooks to stay inspired.
Prioritizing Auditions and Gigs
Communication is key when balancing acting opportunities with your side job. Be upfront with your employers about your acting pursuits from the start. Many businesses are willing to work with actors if they understand the situation.
Always have a backup plan. If you can’t find cover for a shift, have a list of potential solutions ready. This might include offering to work a less desirable shift in exchange. Or you could work late on another shift.
Leveraging Side Jobs to Support Your Acting Career
View your side gigs as more than just a paycheck – they’re opportunities to develop skills that can enhance your acting career. Working as a server or bartender can improve your ability to think on your feet and handle high-pressure situations. Teaching or tutoring can refine your public speaking skills and boost your confidence.
Starting Your Side Hustle: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to launch your perfect side gig? Follow these steps to set yourself up for success.
- Identify Your Skills and Goals: We’ve covered this earlier, but it bears repeating. Reflect on what you can offer and what you hope to achieve with your side job.
- Research the Market: Dive deep into the demand for your chosen side job in your area. Understanding the competition and potential client base will help you position yourself effectively.
- Build Your Brand: Even for “regular” jobs, having a solid personal brand can set you apart. Create a personal website and build a strong online presence through platforms like LinkedIn. Develop a portfolio or resume specific to your side job, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
- Network and Find Clients: Use social media and professional networks to spread the word about your services. Consider joining gig economy platforms relevant to your chosen field.
- Manage Your Finances: Set up a separate bank account for your side hustle to keep personal and business expenses distinct. This will make tax time much easier. Keep meticulous records of income and expenses related to your side job.
Conclusion
Pursuing an acting career doesn’t have to mean sacrificing financial stability. You can support your dreams while honing valuable skills with the right side job. From voice-over work to dog walking, the options are as diverse as the roles you hope to play.
Next Steps: What Now
- Do some research and decide which side gig you want to pursue.
- Consider your interests, goals, and profitability of the work.
- Acquire any skills necessary for that specific side job.
- Create a website for yourself using our best web hosting picks.
- Create social media accounts and engage with people there.
- Join platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com to find work.
- Ensure your side gig doesn’t interfere with your acting gigs.
