6 Tips for LGBT Actors & Models to Consider when Starting Your Career

So you are a lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender actor or model and are wanting to get involved in alternative lifestyle advertising, but you're not sure where to start? Here are 6 simple, but important, tips from veteran talent agent, Josh Robbins.

First

It is very important to realize that you are special because you are a part of a relatively new market segment that is receiving attention from large companies and buyers, looking to advertise and court your segment of population. As a member of the LGBT community, you have incredible buying-power and a brand-loyalty that many companies are wanting. For example, in the summer of 2010, Amtrak released their first LGBT print campaign. They are advertising with the hopes of getting your segment of population to buy from them. How this translates to you, as a performer, is simple. These companies want real LGBT talent in their LGBT campaigns.

Second

You must find a talent agency that specializes in representing LGBT actors and models. Although you shouldn't target only exclusively LGBT talent agencies, you should be interested in working with agencies that actively pursue booking opportunities with LGBT clients. When you approach the agency, it is important that you have the proper marketing tools for the agency (Professional current headshots, for actors, or professional current pictures, for models; current acting coaches; demos of your past work (even non-LGBT related).

Third

I do not recommend being afraid to tell your agent or representative of your desire to get involved in LGBT campaigns. Some agents will never know of your interest or desire to get involved in these campaigns without you speaking up. As a veteran agent, when I work on LGBT campaigns, I always look, first, to my actors and models that have spoken to me about this desire.

Fourth

Surround yourself with other LGBT actors and models. Many cities around the country have organizations, acting troupes, theatre companies and film companies that want and need new members. This is really important for your networking and often companies contact these groups as an effective and efficient resource when looking for LGBT talent. You never know who you might meet or run into when getting involved in the LGBT talent community in your city. (Agents, Casting Directors, Film Director or Advertising Executives)

Fifth

Give back to others in your community, as an LGBT actor or model! I am firm believer that you will "reap what you sow" in your community. So lend your experience and talent to opportunities to help others, even children, in your area. Again, you never know what other opportunities could arise from you deciding to help others.

FinallyBe brave and be bold! Your lifestyle is one of pride and being authentic. Protect your body, as this is your product as an actor or model. Eat healthy and stay active. You have to be ready at a moments notice to book a gig! You are "family" so respect your body.