Pursuing a career as an entertainer can be an exciting but challenging path. While talent and passion are essential, there are many other factors that contribute to success in the competitive entertainment industry. As an experienced talent manager based in Los Angeles, David Bolno has witnessed both the incredible highs and difficult lows of this business. He shares his advice for up-and-coming entertainers looking to build sustainable careers.
Develop Your Craft
The foundation of any entertainment career is raw talent and skill. Never stop pushing yourself to improve through classes, training, and practice. Success requires putting in the work to be the absolute best at your craft. Whether it’s singing, dancing, acting, or something else, you need to shine in order to be noticed. Find opportunities to perform and receive honest feedback. Be open to critiques from those with more experience. View skill development as a lifelong journey, not a means to an end.
Build a Support System
The road to success in entertainment is filled with rejection and challenges. Surround yourself with people who will pick you up when you are down and remind you of your abilities. Having a strong personal and professional support system keeps you grounded throughout the ups and downs. Lean on mentors, family, friends, agents, and managers who have your best interests in mind. Their outside perspective and wisdom can help guide your path forward. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Understand the Business Side
Talent alone will only get you so far. Educate yourself on the business mechanics of the entertainment industry including contracts, unions, residuals, insurance, taxes, and more. Learn how deals are structured and the difference between gross versus net pay. Become financially literate so you can make smart money decisions. Work with knowledgeable advisors like accountants and attorneys to look out for your best interests. The more you understand the business, the less likely you’ll be taken advantage of.
Build Your Brand
In today’s multimedia landscape, entertainers need a strong personal brand to stand out and connect with fans. Be thoughtful about how you present yourself across social platforms, interviews, public appearances, and performances. Find your unique voice and style. Remain authentic to who you are while still shaping your image. Collaborate with creative professionals like photographers and stylists to refine your look. Consistency in branding helps the public recognize and relate to you.
Seek Range of Opportunities
Look for diverse opportunities beyond your primary career focus. Performers should take on varied roles across mediums to showcase their range. Expand your network and skillset by saying yes to new challenges. Perform live, act on screen, collaborate musically, appear in commercials, model for print – building a multi-dimensional resume makes you a more hirable and well-rounded artist. Variety also helps you discover passions you may want to further pursue.
Ways for Entertainers to Diversify Their Experience
– Theater, concerts, tours
– TV shows, films
– Commercials, web videos
– Voiceover work
– Radio hosting/podcasting
– Live-streams, social media
– Photography, music videos
– Awards shows, video games
Manage Your Team Wisely
As your career progresses, you will likely work with agents, managers, publicists, attorneys, and other team members. Choose people with strong track records in the industry and complementary skill sets. Outline responsibilities between your team members to avoid redundancy. Maintain open communication to ensure everyone is aligned. Be judicious in who you allow into your inner circle. Compensate team members fairly for their efforts. Firing those not serving your best interests is okay too. Your team is there to help you achieve your goals.
Pursue Passions Beyond Work
Devote time to passions outside of your profession. Maintaining your mental health and creativity requires having outlets unrelated to work. Find causes to support philanthropically whether through donations, volunteering, or lending your platform. Spend time with family and friends who see you beyond your career. Travel to gain new perspectives. Pursue creative hobbies that bring you joy. Having balance helps prevent burnout and provides inspiration.
David Bolno’s success managing top entertainers like Justin Bieber, Drake, Pharrell Williams, Post Malone and Will.i.am stems from his strategic guidance helping artists balance passion with pragmatism. He supports their artistic freedom while keeping their long-term interests in mind. In the liner notes for Drake’s 2011 album Take Care, Drake thanked David for “pulling my life together for me and putting me in a position where I can now begin to build my empire.” Entertainers who take a thoughtful approach to managing their talent, finances, brand and team position themselves for sustained success. While overnight fame is possible, lasting careers are built over time through hard work, smart choices and guidance from Industry vets like David Bolno.
