April 21st, 2009 by Bobbie McKee

Most kids are naturally adorable. But as parents, before you even think about how to start a child acting career, you have to think hard if you really want to subject your tots to the harsh realities that the showbiz industry may bring their way.

Why do you want your children to be stars? Some might say that it is because of the glitz and the glamour. But most people think that it is for the money. If fate would allow your child to be part of a good production, whether it is on film or TV, the financial aspect is going to be truly rewarding. But you must know the facts that surround a child’s career in acting.

The Regulations Child actors should abide the labor union codes. They should also be regulated both by the state as well as federal laws. Before a kid can get to work, their parents must first make sure that they have the proper work permit. This will also be vital for them to obtain their salaries. Different states impose different rules. So one’s guardian must understand what they will be faced with before committing into anything solid and final.

Undying Controversies Through the years, there have been many issues regarding such career that still resurface from time to time. Most of these revolve around money, the psychological effects of the work on children and how such career affects their childhood in general.

1. There have been many talks about the issues regarding money. Who will handle the child actor’s earnings? Their guardians are the rightful ones to keep and save them. But unfortunately, there have been many incidents wherein a child’s actor money had gone to waste because of mishandling. This may not be felt by the child on their younger years. But as they grow old and learn to reflect on everything, they will question what happened to the money that they have worked so hard for.

This was the inspiration for the original Coogan Law. Based on the facts that happened to a former child star who earned millions at a young age, Jackie Coogan, this law was enacted in California in 1939. It states that a portion of the child actor’s earnings must be preserved in a blocked trust or a savings account especially made for such purpose.

2. Child actors are believed to lose a very big part of their childhood by working and earning at such a young age. Although productions nowadays allow them time to study and play while on the set, this cannot alter the experiences that a kid will get from having a normal life, away from the light, the cameras and the directors yelling, action.

They experience the pressure to perform, to deliver according to what’s expected from them. And they are being asked to play characters that may be sometimes hard to be understood by young minds.

3. These actors should be guided accordingly as they grow older. In most cases, no matter how successful they are as a child actor, a transition period will come wherein they would not fit right into any roles. As a result, they may lack the jobs that they need to augment income or to sustain their popularity.

Their guardians must prepare them for such occurrence. They must prepare these kids that there are a lot of possibilities that they may not be as popular or may not have the kind of a child acting career that they used to enjoy as they age.

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April 20th, 2009 by Robert Smith

SUCCESS CONNECTIONS

People often underestimate the importance of building their personal and professional network, and yet, most people have heard the phrase, “It is not what you know, it is who you know.” Spending time deepening relationships and building a powerful network of people can help you achieve success in all areas of your life.

When it comes to networking, a lot of people focus on traditional networking events, such as Chamber of Commerce meetings, leads groups, et cetera. Such organizations are great, but it is important to remember that you can meet people anywhere – anytime. In addition to concentrating on expanding your network, it is equally important to keep in touch with those you already know and strengthen your current relationships.

Rather than thinking in terms of, “more is better,” focus on creating deeper, more meaningful relationships with people and connect with them on a regular basis. Think of these people as your “Team” / your “Power Circle” – the people who can support you in achieving your goals and for whom you can do the same. At first, you may have 10 people in this group. Over time, create a “Top 100 List” of your most influential, powerful contacts.

When it comes to successful networking, keep the following in mind:

Success Habit #1: Create Relationships Rather Than Contacts

Take the opportunity to learn about the people in your life as well as the new people you meet along the way. In addition to asking people about their business, talk to them about their personal life – their goals and dreams. Develop a friendship and see how you can support one another in achieving your desires. People prefer to work with those they know, like, respect and trust.

Success Habit #2: Follow-up, Connect & Reconnect

When you meet someone new, follow-up with that person within 24-48 hours of your meeting. You may want to call the person or send him / her a personalized card or e-mail. Establish a connection right from the beginning. For people you have known for quite some time, make sure to connect with them regularly. For those you have not spoken to in quite a while, now is the time to reconnect and catch up. Once the connection has been made, establish a system for keeping in touch with your network.

Success Habit #3: Realize That You Can Network Anywhere Anytime

Whether you are at your local coffee shop, a traditional networking event, or the book store, always be prepared to meet someone new who can change your life forever. That said, make sure to leave the house looking your best, have your business cards available, and know how to answer the ever-so-famous question, “What do you do?” easily, succinctly, and in a manner that intrigues the person with whom you are speaking.

Success Habit #4: Smile

While it may sound quite simple, most people neglect this habit. People gravitate to those who look friendly and approachable. A smile changes a person’s appearance and makes him / her appear more inviting. A smile is more powerful than most people realize!

Success Habit #5: Think Win-Win

Approach the people in your life with the mindset, “How can I be of service?” Often when people think about networking, they think about what the other person can do for them. Rather than simply focusing on yourself and your needs, think in terms of “win-win” and how you can support others as well.

Success Habit #6: Slow Down

Last, but certainly not least, slow down so you can be fully present with the people in your life. It is hard to show up 100% and establish a rapport with someone when you are rushing around. People can sense when you are preoccupied, stressed out, and / or not fully paying attention.

To successfully connect with others, treat the people in your life as if they matter They do! It is impossible to achieve extraordinary success without the help of other people. We need one another in order to thrive and live a life of passion, purpose and meaning. Have fun building your Team! What you can achieve as a whole is limitless.

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