entertainment industry coach question 284: How do I make it as a director if I have controversial political views that I'm outspoken about?

This person went on to say, "I'm a conservative republican. And that will never change. I've had many friends tell me that 'you have to leave that to make it in this industry.' However, I'm not willing to. I'm not willing to sacrifice "me" to get that next directing job."

Fear not, some of my best friends are conservative republicans others are liberal democrats. This industry is so huge. You have to find the people with like-minded sensibilities. And also have the good sense to know when, and when not, to discuss politics.

This is in direct response to his movie trailer that I watched: Your first directing piece is controversial. If it's controversial enough to make a lot of money, you'll get more work. Keep in mind, that because your first work is so specific, that you may indeed, "pigeon-hole" yourself. That isn't always a negative thing if you enjoy the genre you're being pigeon-holed into.

I always tell people to think about their long term goals and make choices that are in alignment with both their goals and their values. Usually the two don't conflict. If you feel that they will conflict down the line, then you my friend, are at a cross roads, and you must decide... do you want to be known for your political views or your storytelling?

There is no right or wrong answer, just a decision to be made.

For more tips and articles by top entertainment industry career coach, The Greenlight Coach, visit www.TheGreenlightCoachBlog.com

entertainment industry coach question 219: what do you do when you've achieved all your goals?

This question came from my And...Action! teleseminar today. I liked it because I interpreted it to mean that this gentleman, had set certain career goals for himself years back and is now living those dreams. And still, he was on the call, asking this question.

My answer to him was to come up with new goals, however, at this point, he doesn't have to put the label "goals" on them. I suggested he come up with things that will make life even more fulfilling. Challenges, new adventures, unimagined ideas. Now is the time to perhaps give back, and if you already do, give differently.

And while you're doing that, make sure you continue to use your tools; maintaining relationships, staying current with technology, so should circumstances change, you'll always be in the position to maintain your career stability.

For more tips and articles by top entertainment industry career coach, the Greenlight Coach, visit www.thegreenlightcoachblog.com

Question 46: Will internships in the entertainment industry lead to anything after?

That question is impossible for me to answer without my Magic 8 Ball. So, let me re-phrase it as: Do internships in the entertainment industry have the POTENTIAL to lead to anything after? Now, I can give you a firm yes-- IF you treat the internship as a business opportunity, which means:

1. Know where you want to be 3 steps after the internship so you can take the steps to position yourself toward those milestones 

2. Create relationships with everyone you possibly can

3. Help the people you meet at your internship achieve their goals

4. Contact everyone you know, to tell them you're working, and what you plan to do when this job is done

5. Be the BEST at whatever you're assigned

6. Go above and beyond whenever possible 

7. Learn, LEARN, LEARN

Internships can be advantages stepping stones if you know where you want to step next.

For more tips and articles by The Greenlight Coach, visit www.TheGreenlightCoachBlog.com