1. Network.  Technicians are often the more shy element of the theatrical world, but that means networking is even more important.  While “experience” got me into grad school, networking has helped me infinitely more with employment after grad school.  In fact, I believe every single gig I have had since grad school has been because I knew someone who was looking for someone with my qualifications.  They knew me personally, so they called me before doing any advertising for the position.
2. Toot you Horn.  Have a resume and portfolio ready that shows your work in an attractive way.  Be ready to talk about your work, and things you love about it.  Don’t criticize yourself, but be honest with employers about your abilities.  Concentrate on the good things you have to offer.
   
3. Be friendly.  There are many people I have worked with in theater who do great work but are miserable people to work with.  (Ok, some of them were just mildly annoying, that can turn into miserable really quickly during times of high stress.)  I see them getting looked over for positions because people don’t want to deal with their attitude.  Theater is a high pressure business and collaborative at the same time.  We must work together in high stess and high risk situations without killing each other.  If your attitude is obviously the kind that helps lighten the mood and sets others at ease, you will be much more likely to gain employment.
4. When you do get that first opportunity, do well.  Then continue to have a high quality of work everywhere you go.  Recommendations and word of mouth reputation do a lot for your employability.  The theater world is a small one and word gets around.  Quality work will speak for itself.
5. Never give up.  Apply everywhere until there is nowhere left, and then apply again.  Persistence is key.  If you are having real trouble finding paying work, get a non-theater job that you hate (so you don’t get too comfortable and find yourself tempted to quit theatre) and do community or volunteer theater on the side.   

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