Making it as an actor takes time—and, usually, a survival job. But instead of waiting tables or picking up random shifts, why not find steady work that actually benefits your craft?
The right side job can improve your performance skills, introduce you to industry connections, and give you a flexible schedule for auditions, all while providing a stable income.
And Backstage can help. More than just a casting platform, it’s a resource for actors looking for flexible, creative work that keeps them close to the entertainment industry. Here’s how to find the right day job and use it to fuel your acting career.
The value of steady industry jobs
Having a steady income while pursuing acting offers more than financial security, it allows you to invest in your passion without constant stress. The key is finding a job that complements, rather than competes with, your acting ambitions.
Working as a content creator, background actor, or in other media-related roles not only gets you paid but also keeps you immersed in the world of performance and production. These jobs allow you to build industry connections, get behind-the-scenes experiences, and accumulate transferable skills like public speaking, improvisation, and on-camera time.
Backstage simplifies this search, helping you discover gigs that support your artistic journey while paying the bills.
Explore Backstage’s non-acting job gigs
Backstage isn’t just casting calls for acting roles. It’s a hub for creative gigs that serve as ideal paid side jobs while pursuing an acting career. Consider roles like:
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Brand ambassador: Represent companies at events, trade shows, or online promotions. These roles often involve engaging with the public and can help you develop valuable communication and improvisation skills.
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User-generated content (UGC) creator: Brands are always seeking authentic voices to create relatable content for social media platforms. This role allows you to exercise creativity while working from home and setting your own hours.
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Product tester: Get paid to test new products for commercials or feedback purposes, an easy and creative way to earn extra income.
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Background actor or day player: Steady work as an extra or day plater on film or TV sets provides income while giving you behind-the-scenes exposure to the production process without the intense preparation required for lead or supporting roles.
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Voiceover work: Use your voice for commercials, animated work, or audiobooks. Flexible and often remote, voice acting is an ideal side job for aspiring actors.
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Event performers or hosts: Many events require engaging hosts, entertainers, or emcees, great roles for actors looking to sharpen their public speaking or performance skills.
These roles offer not just extra money but also valuable industry connections and opportunities to try out and cultivate skills relevant to your acting career.
Use casting call filters to find gigs on Backstage
Backstage’s advanced search tools allow you to filter job postings to fit your needs. Use the Filter button on the casting calls page to find:
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Jobs by role type: Search for day player, background/extra, content creator, ensemble, voiceover, or crew roles.
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Jobs by production type: Narrow casting calls by branded content, commercials, UGC, promo work, and more.
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Jobs by skill type: Search for jobs that align with your unique talents, such as singing, dancing, presenting, or improv.
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Part-time or freelance work: Search gigs by specific keywords to find jobs looking for experience such as in graphic design, video editing, and production experience.
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Work-from-home opportunities: Find remote jobs for voiceover work or online content gigs, allowing you to set your own schedule.
Save your search preferences to receive alerts for new postings. Learn more about how to customize your Backstage job search.
Create a talent profile that highlights versatility
Your Backstage profile isn’t just for casting directors. Employers looking for brand ambassadors, content creators, voiceover artists, and other talent also browse profiles to find candidates. To stand out:
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Highlight relevant experience, such as public speaking, hosting events, or social media content creation.
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Add a section for transferable skills like improvisation, teamwork, or creativity.
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Include professional headshots that convey approachability and confidence.
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Mention roles like private tutors to showcase your diverse skill set and experience.
Read our guide to creating a standout Backstage profile.
Network and build relationships
Many non-acting roles available on Backstage can lead to new opportunities and valuable connections. Working as a brand ambassador can introduce you to brand leaders, event organizers, marketing professionals, and even casting directors. These roles often overlap with industry events or campaigns, giving you a chance to network in informal settings.
Similarly, background acting and stand-in work provide on-set exposure, allowing you to interact with directors, producers, and crew members. These connections can lead to future acting opportunities or insights into the production process. Additionally, gigs like hosting events or creating user-generated content often bring you into contact with media professionals seeking fresh talent. Every gig is a stepping stone to expanding your network and making a positive, lasting impression.
Read more tips about building an industry network.
Stay consistent and proactive
Consistency and proactive planning are essential to balancing life as a professional actor while earning enough money to live. Here’s how Backstage can help you stay organized and ahead of the competition:
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Update your profile regularly: Ensure your profile highlights your latest experience and skills, making it appealing to employers.
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Save and customize job alerts: Set up alerts for roles that match your criteria so you’re among the first to apply.
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Apply frequently: Even small gigs can lead to connections and more opportunities down the line.
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Use Backstage’s resources: Leverage articles, webinars, and success stories to stay inspired and informed about trends in the industry.
By maintaining a steady routine and using Backstage’s tools, you can create a consistent workflow that supports both your financial stability and acting ambitions.
For additional advice, explore how actors found success on Backstage.
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