entertainment industry coach Question 402: How do I get in with a “tight” crew?

You create relationships with all of them in a non-threatening way. You DON’T ask for work, and as time goes by and they get to know you, like you, and trust you, the possibility of them offering you a day playing job will increase. A good strategy is to target multiple crews instead of focusing on just one. Also target crews that work on bigger productions and need more people on certain shoot days.

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

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entertainment industry coach question 311: Is it appropriate to have your dog on set?

I sure hope so, because I have two camera hogs. One (the Saint Bernard)of which is leaning on my computer right now, hoping the little camera is on.

But, back to reality. Is it appropriate? I met Felicity Huffman's Bernese Mountain Dog, on the set of Sports Night. Of course she was the star. Every set is different, and let's face it, cute little pups can turn into major distractions.

If you're asking because you think it's inappropriate, unless you're in charge, probably best to focus on your job. If that's hard to do because the little love is peeing on your equipment, tell your direct supervisor.

If you're dayplaying or a guest star, don't risk it.

When in doubt, ask.

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

entertainment industry coach question 290:How about if I just want to reach out to someone I worked with temporarily?

The full comment on yesterday's blog read: "How about if I just want to reach out to someone I worked with temporarily and it had nothing to do with anyone else getting me the job? I just got called in to day play."

You should absolutely stay in touch with crews who call you in to day play. Always make sure you ask for a call sheet so you know everyone's name. Again, now is the perfect time to reach out and wish them a happy holiday. They are most likely on hiatus, so clearly you're not asking for work, you're simply reconnecting.

Usually with this question, there's the "unspoken" fear of not wanting to appear like you are trying to take someone else's job. If you are at the point in your career, where you need to build up credits as a day player, then make it really clear (in the future not in the holiday card) that you enjoy being their go to guy/girl when they need someone to fill in.

If you're at the point where you have 100 dayplaying credits and you're ready for a full hire, then target crews who are working on hit shows where the exec producer will most likely get a spinoff or another show, and therefore will need an additional crew. For features, target crews that work on big budget films with MANY additional cameras.

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