Dignity and Graciousness are at the heart of The Savvy Actor. They go hand in hand with the self-empowerment techniques that we teach through our “Crash Course MBA Weekend” and in our one-on-one coaching sessions. This empowerment is fully taking responsibility for your acting business. It gives you the dignity and grace to conduct your business in a professional and authentic way.

No longer give your power away.

The concept of this article began to percolate after meeting actor and “Acting Psych 101″ teacher, Michael Kostroff. At one point during our meeting he used the words ‘dignity’ and ‘actor’ in the same sentence. It was the first time that I heard the combination, actor’s dignity, and was instantly struck by the profoundness of the combination.

He also added that you should, in your mind, wish the other actors in the audition room well. He may have also used the word gracious, I can’t recall, but somehow that word stuck. Graciousness. Being gracious in all that we do as actors. This allows you to be present and to be in control. You’re taking care of yourself in the audition room, thereby taking care of everyone else at the same time. That’s true empowerment.

Empowered actors who know their mission and have defined what they are working towards have dignity. That’s what we do with our clients. We help you foster your dignity and empower you, by creating a strategy for your career. Your strategy is based on your strengths and your unique desires and goals. Incorporate your values as well, because when you stray from your values you lose your dignity.

Graciousness is incorporated into many parts of a savvy business plan. One of the most obvious is in the thank you card strategy. It’s an opportunity to say thanks, while also using the marketing strategy behind it to help you stay top of mind. The key of course is the presence of mind to thank. Recognize the people who have helped you further your career, whether it’s a casting director, agent, director, etc. As a small business owner you are in charge of your career. Your support system… agents, managers, casting directors, etc…help you on your path. Sending a card doesn’t have to take a lot of time either. You can set up systems that support you in your graciousness. We use Send Out Cards. Click HERE to check them out.

Dignity and Empowerment also allow for the opportunity to say no – graciously. When you have clearly defined your steps and your path, it’s easy to see a clear yes or no. If it’s not, you can check out this video tip on “Should I Take the Job?” It’s your life and you have to be in control. No one gives you that control but you. Before you can confidently use no, you have to do everything within your power to fully understand yourself, your brand and what you want in your life and career.

We’re so focused at times on our career, excessively so. Sometimes it’s good to just to sit back and take it all in. At this time of the year, think back on all the good that has happened to you as an actor. Graciously be thankful for all that you have accomplished … and have yet to accomplish. Approach the end of the year with dignity and begin next year empowered.

I graciously thank Michael Kostroff for the inspiration to write this today.

Tags: Business, Empowerment, Passion