Everything You Wanted To Know About Virtual Hustles But Were Afraid To Ask
It's said that necessity is the mother of invention, and following the 2020 shutdowns, the entertainment industry (along with the world) had to adapt to new ways of working. During the height of the pandemic, StuntListing offered "virtual" hustles over Zoom to help performers and coordinators connect. While on-set hustles might return in some form, they realized that virtual hustles are easier, faster and more often result in a hire. StuntListing may not have invented hustling, but they did pioneer an innovative, more convenient way to do it.
What is an on-set stunt hustle?
An on-set hustle is an opportunity to meet a coordinator, have a conversation, and make a (hopefully great) first impression. On-set hustles were often surprises to the coordinator and sometimes lasted a bit too long. While they were usually informal, they were often not the most comfortable for anyone involved.
What is a virtual stunt hustle?
A virtual stunt hustle is a new approach to finding work as a stunt performer. A major component of being a stunt performer is reacting to what's happening and since sets are closed along with 2 strikes going on, this is a great alternative that can offer huge payouts for your career.
Any advice for doing a virtual stunt hustle?
It can be nerve wracking for some performers, but just remember that coordinators have been in the same position as you, and they want to know about you. Coordinators are all different so it's best to just be yourself.
A virtual hustle is like having a conversation with someone except you're mostly talking about yourself. Think about what you'd say in-person to sell yourself, and say that. You'll get around 4 minutes to talk with each coordinator, and that's usually too long for some.
These can be exhausting and the coordinator is taking time out of their busy lives to do it - be considerate of that, but don't sell yourself short:
- Talk about what you can do. Be factual and clear (don't overdo it here).
- Talk about what you're working on.
- Talk about who's hired you and what you were hired for in the past.
- Where and with whom do you train?
See where we're going with this?...
Since these are virtual, you get to control your surroundings. If you know the conversation will be stressful for you, make sure to create a comfortable sitting area for you to relax and prepare in...we want you to shine! (Not literally - do have good lighting, please.)
How do I make the best impression possible?
Set yourself up for success by being somewhere with:
- a strong internet connection
- quiet surroundings
- a non-distracting background
There's nothing worse than making a bad impression for a technical reason.
How does the Virtual Hustling Package work?
We offer these from time to time to allow a group of performers to get a great experience all at once. We wait for the package to sell out, then hustles will hit the calendar (and your inbox) letting you know which coordinators to plan for and when. They'll most likely be on Sundays since that's when coordinators have the most flexibility. You'll get an email or two about the event the week before, and the Zoom link and hustle order on the day of. All you have to do is click the meeting link, listen for directions and wait your turn! Don't forget to think of questions to ask the coordinators in the exclusive Q&A that follows.
Is there anything I should do beforehand?
In preparation for the hustle, we recommend:
- Updating your StuntListing profile
• Your profiles, reels and resumes will be shared with the coordinators before each event. Start off on the right foot with a complete package! - Knowing what you're going to talk about
• If you need some help, read above (again) for some examples.
• Keep a list of topics handy, be sure to reference it if you need.
• Make note of key points so you don't forget to mention them. - Knowing the coordinator you're about to meet
• Be sure to familiarize yourself with each coordinator and their work, you never know where a conversation will take you. - Taking a deep breath
• You're already making a positive on impact on your career by participating in the hustle. Just relax, take it slow and have fun!
What happens after the stunt hustle?
That's up to you and the coordinator. If the coordinator shares their email, it never hurts to send a short thank you follow up. Sometimes, coordinators are looking for someone like you right away, and other times, they might remember you two years from now. Don't stress if you don't hear back right away. The goal is to plant the seed (and water it appropriately).
Benefits of Virtual Stunt Hustling
Virtual stunt hustling can provide a number of benefits for stunt performers, including:
- Expanded reach: Now you're not limited by your geography - you'll be connected with potential employers from all over the country!
- Saves time: Sets are closed - trying to get on any set is basically a waste of time.
- Increased opportunities: Find opportunities you might not have otherwise been aware of because you never thought to meet this coordinator.
- Stay sharp: By constantly meeting hiring coordinators, you challenge yourself to stay relevant and training so that you'll always be ready when the call comes.
In today's ever-changing technological landscape, performers and coordinators are able to be connected like never before. Traditional hustling is time-consuming and basically Mission: Impossible. For once, take the easy way out and purchase StuntListing's Virtual Stunt Hustle Package.
If you have any other questions, head here: https://stuntlisting.myshopify.com/collections/services/products/stunt-hustle-package-deal?variant=43368795209877
