Series on Careers in the Arts (Part 1):
THE CHALLENGE OF PARALLEL CAREERS
Even busy performing or visual artists may not earn a sufficient or stable
income solely from their craft. Many require “money” jobs to supplement their
artistic careers – hence the prototype of the waiter/ actor. In effect, many
artists have parallel careers: their artistic career; and another career where
they earn their living. Here are some tips to meet the challenge of parallel
careers:
Clarify your motivations for each career. What is your ultimate
artistic goal? Do you want your art to be your source of income, or do you plan
on keeping both careers? How much money do you need to make from your money
job? How much scheduling flexibility do you need? Depending on your
requirements, your money job may mean temping, a traditional 9-to-5, or an
entrepreneurial venture.
Follow the business protocol for each career. Take the example of an
actor who supplements with temp work. Acting resumes differ from corporate
resumes. Audition clothes differ from interview clothes. Interviews vary at a
casting office versus a corporate office. You need to understand the required
marketing materials, dress code, and work environments of each career.
Maintain perspective about the benefits of both careers. The benefits
of an artistic career include doing what you love every day, not just the roles
you book or gallery sales. On the flip side, a money job is not just about
money. It is an investment in your artistic career. It sustains your artistic
career and gives it a chance to succeed. It develops different skills and
introduces different people and situations. Resist the trap of begrudging your
money job. Remember that both careers contribute to your ultimate life goals.
Caroline Ceniza-Levine, a resident of Little Silver, is an adjunct
professor of Professional Development at Columbia University, a recruiter for a
Fortune 500 publishing firm, and a career/life coach. Caroline can be reached
at 212-502-8593 or at her website at
www.thinkasinc.com.
