Top 10 Questions Performing Artists Can Answer When Worried About Their Career Future
By Michael Cerreto
Many artists are like small businesses. They build artistry, connections, and skills to advance their careers in an exciting industry. The journey has its ups, like landing a long-term gig, and downs, like feeling exhausted from constant travel. When artists worry about their future in the industry, they can start by answering these ten questions and also seek professional guidance.
How do I improve artistically while the world keeps changing? Staying flexible and improving your skills is crucial to staying at the top of the performing arts business (Smith, 2022).
How can I deal with the financial ups and downs in the performing arts? Financial planning and diversification of income streams are critical strategies for managing the economic uncertainties inherent in the performing arts (Johnson & Lee, 2023).
How can I create a strong personal brand to handle industry changes? Creating a great personal brand is about knowing what makes you special and sharing that with people and potential employers (Davis, 2021).
What are the best ways to network and create opportunities in the performing arts? Networking is crucial and can be done through relationships with other artists, attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and maintaining an active online presence (Garcia, 2022).
How can I use technology to boost my career opportunities? Embracing digital platforms for self-promotion, performance, and collaboration can open up new opportunities for career advancement (Miller & Thompson, 2024).
How can I best handle rejection and criticism? As an artist, you need a thick skin and the ability not to take feedback personally to deal with standard rejection and criticism (Brown, 2023).
How can I ensure that I am getting paid fairly for my work? Knowing industry standards and being good at negotiation is essential to get paid fairly (Khan, 2022).
When should I switch to a different job within the arts? Being aware of your satisfaction, the demand in the job market, and your physical and mental well-being can tell you when it might be time to switch careers (Wong, 2023).
How can I juggle my performing career while still having a life outside of work? Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care is crucial to maintaining a healthy balance between personal life and a demanding career (Torres, 2022).
Where can performing artists find help and advice for their careers? There are lots of places that help out artists with career advice, workshops, and grants (Evans & Patel, 2023). Start with professional colleagues and industry organizations.
A prosperous and healthy future for performing artists needs support, creativity, and flexibility. As an artist, you already embody these qualities and must use them to chart new paths for a long career. Stay confident. You got this.
References
Brown, A. (2023). Coping with Criticism: Strategies for Artists. New York: Arts Press.
Davis, R. (2021). Personal Branding for Performers. Los Angeles: Stage Success Publishing.
Evans, M., & Patel, S. (2023). Supporting the Arts: Resources for Career Development. Chicago: Creative Careers Press.
Garcia, E. (2022). Networking in the Arts: Making Connections That Count. Performing Arts Journal, 45(2), 34-40.
Johnson, P., & Lee, A. (2023). Financial Management for Artists: Planning for a Sustainable Career. Boston: Creative Finance Press.
Khan, S. (2022). Negotiating Fair Pay in the Performing Arts. Theatre Today, 59(1), 12-16.
Miller, R., & Thompson, L. (2024). Digital Innovation in Performing Arts. Journal of Arts and Technology, 7(3), 45-53.
Smith, J. (2022). Adapting to Change: Career Resilience in the Arts. San Francisco: Culture Shift Books.
Torres, L. (2022). Balancing the Stage: Wellness for Performers. Miami: Performer's Health Series.
Wong, F. (2023). When to Pivot: Recognizing the Signs for Career Change in the Arts. Dance and Drama Review, 67(4), 22-29.
