Aspiring actors could work waiting tables in restaurants because the hours are flexible enough to let them schedule auditions and acting classes. As a waiter, you can choose to work night-shifts, leaving your days open to purse your career. If you work in Los Angeles or New York City, you might also get the chance to meet casting directors, producers and agents who frequent trendy eateries on a regular basis.
Working in the fitness industry also provides flexible hours and helps you keep in top shape, which comes in handy when you are competing for roles. Work as a personal trainer teaching clients how to get and stay in shape, or contract with a fitness club to work with its members. Teach group classes such as aerobics, jump-rope and spinning. Try to work in a club where celebrities exercise, which can provide you with networking opportunities. Set your own hours to give you the freedom to continue working on your acting career.
Another option you have is to sign with a temp agency. New York and Los Angeles have temp agencies that specialize in jobs within the entertainment industry. These jobs allow you to earn money, while also putting you in front of people who work at film agencies and production offices. With a temp job, you have the choice to make yourself available to work for a few days, the entire week or months at a time.
Keep your days free by obtaining a job as a nighttime bartender. You will have to learn how to mix drinks, either by teaching yourself or attending an instructional course. In addition, there is intense competition for bartender jobs at the busiest hot spots. Even though you won't get rich as a bartender, you can make decent tips, especially in popular hangouts. You also get the chance to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, which helps hone your observational and personality skills, key attributes of a good actor.