5 tips on how to handle rejection – Screenwise Tips

“It doesn’t matter how you get knocked down in life, because that’s going to happen. All that matters is that you get back up.” – Ben Affleck

Rejection of any kind is never a nice feeling; whether it’s at school, work or in relationships, because let’s face it, no one enjoys being told ‘no’.

It is important for actors to learn not to be afraid of rejection, so here are some tips that will help you.

1. Don’t take it personally – acting is a business

If you are a trained professional actor and you have done your preparation and performed to the best of your ability, then just because a casting director doesn’t give you a call back, doesn’t mean he or she doesn’t like you. It’s most probably because there was a more suitable candidate who auditioned for that particular role. Accept that acting is a business and move on to your next audition.

1. Try to see things from the producer’s side

A producer will already have a pre-defined idea of the character, their traits, what they look like, how they behave, act, walk and talk. This is essentially their baby and something they have thought about and worked long and hard on. They’re going to make sure it comes together exactly the way they had imagined.
In these circumstances, it’s important to remember that rejection has nothing to do with your talent

1. Don’t hold back your feelings – talk through it with a friend

Being rejected is going to sting and that’s a fact, so if you’re finding it hard to shake off the negativity, talk to a friend or family member about your feelings. Surround yourself with positive people who make you feel good and will encourage you to move on.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask (understand where you’ve performed well and where you need to make improvements)

Feedback both good and bad is positive! It will help you learn more about yourself, your strengths and weaknesses and ultimately make you a better actor in the long term. Don’t hassle your agent for feedback on a TV commercial though, talent has nothing to do with TVC’s.

1. Get yourself into an acting course

Continuous improvement of your acting skills will give you the upper hand against other actors when it comes to auditions. Even if you’re a good actor already, a little more education and hands on experience in workshops will increase your chances of scoring your dream role! Being honed and prepared through an acting course enhances those opportunities.
For more information on the courses Screenwise offers, click here or contact info@screenwise.com.au