I bet you can't guess which skill can make all the difference in your acting career. I guarantee it's not what you're thinking... You give up? Okay, it's pitching—and no, I don’t mean baseball.

Picture this: You’re at a film festival, casually chatting with a director or producer who could open doors to your next big role. Do you know how to pitch yourself at that moment? If not, you could be letting some life-changing opportunities slip right through your fingers.

Whether you’re looking for a new agent, reminding casting directors you’re still out there, or responding to casting calls, knowing when and how to pitch—whether soft or hard—can make all the difference.

You Are Your Product—Own It

Like it or not, as actors, we’re constantly pitching ourselves—even when we don’t realize it. You’re a product. Sounds weird, I know. But it’s true. You’ve got to know what you’re selling—your brand. What makes you different from every other actor out there? That’s where your pitch comes in. 

And here’s the trick: there are two types of pitches, and knowing when to use each one will totally set you apart.

The Two Types of Pitches You Need to Know

You’ve got two go-to approaches when pitching yourself: the hard pitch and the soft pitch. The key is knowing when to pull out each one, depending on who’s in front of you.

• Hard Pitch: This is your direct, “I’m going for it” pitch. You’re clear, bold, and straight to the point. Perfect for auditions, agent meetings, or anytime someone asks what you’re about.

• Soft Pitch: This is the low-key approach. You’re not asking for anything directly—you’re just casually talking about what you do and building some rapport. Great for networking or when you bump into someone in the industry.

Why Pitches Matter (More Than You Think)

Here’s the deal: You’re always just one pitch away from landing that role that could change your life. And trust me, I’ve been there. 

When I restarted my acting career at 47, I had to re-learn how to pitch myself from scratch after being away for 16 years. Moving to Germany to take care of my family left me with a gap in my resume, so I had to figure out how to show people where I was headed—not just where I’d been. That’s what a good pitch does—it paints a picture of what you can bring to the table.

Want to Crush Your Pitches? Here’s How:

1. Know Your Audience: Always tailor your pitch to the person you’re talking to. Think about what they need and show them how you fit.

2. Practice Both Pitches: Be ready to switch between a hard and soft pitch depending on the vibe. Practice both so they feel natural, and you’re ready no matter what comes your way.

3. Keep the Door Open: Always have a way to follow up. Whether it’s handing over your card, sharing your reel, or sending a quick thank-you message, don’t let the connection fade away.

Pitching Is About Connection—Make It Human

Here’s the thing: pitching isn’t just about selling yourself. It’s about connecting with people. So make it personal. Know who you’re talking to, and adjust your pitch to fit them. It’s not just about you—it’s about how you fit into their world.

And sometimes, the best pitch starts with just listening. Seriously, people love to talk about themselves! Let them. Ask questions, show some real interest, and see where it goes. Real relationships often start with those simple, honest conversations.

Ready to Take Charge of Your Career?

Mastering your pitch is your key to getting into the rooms that matter—whether it’s nailing better auditions, landing an agent, or getting noticed for bigger projects. Take some time to work on your pitches. You never know when your next big opportunity will pop up.

And if you’re ready to step things up and take charge of your acting career, let’s talk. Book a free discovery call with me, and we’ll figure out how you can start making things happen.

Until next time, you stay your bold and beautiful self.

—Anne