Don't believe for a moment that it's easy to make it in show business. For every working actor you see on the big screen, there are countless others either unemployed or scratching out a meager existence. Resumes, headshots and agents are all well and good, but there's so much more to making a success of being an actor. But here you can learn how to start an acting career. Research talent agencies, looking for a business that will help you but not take your money.

Get to the library to study acting technique books that will give you an insight into the numerous methods that can help you maintain riveting performances over the duration of your career. Also look at the way in which acting classes function, thus making it easier to choose the right school for you.

Learn the basics of business because, as a freelance professional, you have to know what it takes to impress agents, casting directors, producers and directors. Begin collating a portfolio by getting headshots (commercial and dramatic), writing a resume, a cover letter, and preparing at least two monologues -- one comical, one dramatic. Doing all this will convey how you want to be seen as an actor, so take particular care to portray a consistent and appropriate image.

Having a regular income can be a problem, especially early in a career, so it's advisable to have a steady income not related to acting. If you're aiming at being full-time, you'll require savings or be backed maybe by your parents as your focus has to be on progressing your career and not on worrying about rent payments. If eyeing up a part-time career, try to locate a sympathetic boss willing to allow you days off when required.

Experience is important, so gain small parts on major film productions, work as an extra on TV, or secure meatier roles with independent movies. Don't forget to check out community theatre or low-budget theatre as any work will help you grow as an actor, and possibly give you a small income, too.

You'll need an agent now. Try contacting them through meet-and-greets, showcases, forums with casting directors and agents that allow for auditions and personal chats, auditions at school seminars, or ask them to watch a movie or television show you're in or a show in which you're performing. Even send out masses of mail to agents and make follow-up calls. Do your homework on talent agencies to find one that's licensed and has been around for a number of years.

Actors don't ever believe they've learned everything there is to know about their art, thus perfecting and refining monologues or improv skills is constant. However, you're a product to be bought so must create a market in which you're in demand if wishing to go beyond the first steps on the ladder of how to start an acting career.