The Unknown Character in the Red Shirt Always Dies

Everyone who is a fan of the original Star Trektalking to producers, directors and casing agents
series knows that time is limited for the unknownabout other opportunities. They know that their
actor wearing a RED SHIRT. Any extra whojobs are limited in scope, as even ongoing
went on an "away mission" to the surface of atelevision shows get canceled. They explore what
planet (with Kirk, Spock, and the rest of the maintypes of roles are available for them, and they
characters) did not return.understand that even the stars have to audition.
It was always the unknown guy in the red shirtYou should keep your eyes open for what else is
who was killed in every episode. On some planetsout there that you would enjoy so that when the
there were hostile circumstances and someonetime comes to make a move, you are aware of
was going to die. It was never the stars of theyour options.
show.3. Fame makes a difference. While those who are
What does this have to do with you? The keysuccessful in their business community are not
for your career is not the red shirt, but being thechased by the paparazzi, the people who become
unknown character. If you are not known in your"a little bit famous" in their industry are always
business community you are vulnerable.going to have opportunities. Take advantage of
Your reputation, inside and outside your companyPR opportunities: write articles, speak on industry
matters. If you think it is silly when you hearpanels, become a source for reporters and you
people talk about the importance of establishing awill find that you will become known as the "go to
personal and professional brand, you could be theperson". That will make you more valuable in your
person wearing the red shirt (and not even knowcareer.
it).4. A good agent is a must. Actors are sent to
Lead characters are rarely killed off on televisionaudition for roles because their agents are
programs. When it does happen, those popularworking for them to uncover opportunities. While
actors and actresses are quickly re-cast in othera business professional will not have the same
shows. Don't believe me? Look at the number oftype of agent, a supportive network of
new shows that feature actors you have seenprofessional contacts serves the same purpose.
before. There are thousands of people inWhen you have other people who keep their
Hollywood who are seeking roles on television,eyes open for great opportunities, you will always
with many of them waiting tables. Meanwhile,find new roles.
those who the audiences know, like and trust are5. Continue to learn. The best actors take acting
always have new work.classes, work with coaches, and accept roles that
Using Hollywood as the example... here are fiveare out of their comfort zone to help stretch
similarities that you need to think about betweentheir skills. In business if you are not learning new
your career and that of an actor:things, you are yesterday's news. You cannot rely
1. You have to have talent. There is a lot ofon your past experience to ensure your future.
competition for roles in the movies and insideToo many things are changing. Have you
companies. Those who are casting the jobs onlyattended a seminar or worked with a coach in the
want to hire people who can prove they canlast year? The answer should be "yes".
deliver the goods. Make sure you do good workIf you do not regularly take action in these areas
and that people are aware of this up front.of similarity between Hollywood and your career,
2. Go on auditions. Working actors are alwaysthen you need to look at your shirt color... it is red.