How to Become an Actor With No Experience: 8 Steps to Break Into Acting

Pursuing acting without any experience can feel daunting but dedication and persistence make it possible to build a career on stage and screen. With talent and hard work you can overcome the “no experience” dilemma. Follow these 8 key steps

1. Consider Local Gigs

Look for simple acting opportunities in your community to start building real credits

• Local theater productions – Audition for small community theater companies and productions. Many welcome newcomers and have open casting calls

• Student films – Check colleges and casting websites for student film projects eager for talent. No-pay gigs still yield valuable footage for your reel.

• Background work – Sign up with local casting agencies to work as an extra on TV/film sets. Networking on set can lead to bigger parts.

• Commercials – Students, new actors, and “real people” are often cast in local ads for retail stores, car dealerships, lawyers etc.

• Voiceover work – Create a home recording setup to audition for gigs on sites like Voices.com. Exploring voice acting builds diverse skills.

Any acting experience, however minor, gets your foot in the door and builds confidence being on set.

2. Take Acting Classes

Enroll in acting workshops and classes to:

• Study foundational acting techniques like memorization, movement, vocal work, and character development.

• Get comfortable being on stage or in front of a camera.

• Receive instructor feedback to improve areas needing work.

• Connect and practice with other aspiring actors through exercises and scene studies.

Look for courses at local acting studios, community colleges, theater companies, and private coaching services. Build skills gradually through introductory to advanced levels.

3. Further Your Formal Education

Earning a certificate or college degree in acting or theater provides comprehensive training with resources like:

• Working with directing/acting professors who are industry professionals

• Gaining stage experience through college theater productions

• Accessing expert voice, speech, and movement coaching

• Using college equipment, studios, and sets for portfolio building

• Entering acting competitions and showcases for discovery

• Making connections for collaborating on films and ambitious projects

An acting education signals commitment and polish to future employers.

4. Join a Local Theater

Volunteering or interning at a community theater exposes you to all aspects of play production. You can:

• Audition or get cast in their shows to gain stage experience.

• Assist directors, technical crews, and administrators to learn how productions are mounted.

• Meet visiting actors, directors, and agents during shows who can become mentors.

• Gain access to rehearsal and audition opportunities before the general public.

Surrounding yourself with the theater scene stimulates growth and possibilities.

5. Learn About the Acting Industry

Being well-versed in the business matters of acting helps you navigate a professional career:

• Research acting terms, standards, rates, and guidelines in your city/region.

• Brush up on audition techniques and etiquette for different mediums like theater, TV, film etc.

• Study top agents, casting directors, and production companies to target.

• Learn your union options like SAG-AFTRA and Equity; understand membership requirements.

• Stay up to date on acting workshop announcements and audition opportunities.

Knowledge reduces rookie mistakes and positions you for success as opportunities arise.

6. Build Your Acting Resume

Create an industry-standard acting resume highlighting:

• Formal training and education

• Stage and film credits, detailing your roles and directors

• Special skills like accents, choreography, singing, martial arts etc.

• Physical stats like height, weight, hair color etc.

Upload your resume to actor database websites to start establishing an online presence. Have headshots ready so talent agents can envision representing you.

7. Get Professional Headshots

Headshots are your most vital marketing asset. Invest in getting yours done professionally.

• Research reputable acting photographers familiar with capturing the range you need.

• Bring multiple outfit options to showcase looks and character types.

• Convey confidence and genuine expressions – avoid overly posed or gimmicky shots.

• Opt for classic simple backgrounds and good lighting.

Great headshots project your strengths and make a strong first impression.

8. Start Auditioning

Begin actively pursuing local auditions once you have adequate training and materials.

• Check online casting boards frequently and be prepared to submit promptly.

• Sign up for casting email lists and Facebook groups to stay updated on what productions are casting.

• Leverage any connections you have in the industry to access unposted opportunities.

• Follow up respectfully with casting directors if you don’t hear back. Persistence pays off.

With training, persistence, and professionalism, you can build an acting career without formal experience. Expect a gradual escalation of opportunities, not overnight fame. Absorb all lessons and feedback to continue excelling. Study actors you admire, but develop your own authentic strengths. Stay ready for the right breakout roles and enjoy the journey of honing your craft.

Here are additional tips for aspiring actors just starting out:

• Record monologues and scenes on your phone to practice self-review and improvement.

• Listen to acting podcasts for insider advice on the craft and business.

• Follow industry social media accounts and hashtags to stay in the loop.

• Make contacts by attending live theater, film screenings, and industry events.

• Consider whether locales like Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, or London better suit your acting ambitions.

• Research reputable talent agencies and managers when ready to pursue representation. Look for those welcoming new talent.

• If finances allow, hire an acting coach to sharpen your skills with more personalized attention.

• Stay physically, vocally, and mentally healthy to persevere through a demanding career.

• Appreciate incremental achievements. Measure success by your growth rather than fame markers.

Acting requires thick skin and relentless drive but offers immense fulfillment. With strategic preparation as a newcomer, you can set yourself up for the opportunities, connections, and skills that make building an acting career possible. Invest fully in your training and take advantage of all local avenues available to gain experience. Believe in your potential and take pride in your progress.