<< All Blogs

Should I Take the Job?

By Annie Chadwick, July 23, 2025

How the 5 Ps Formula Helps Actors Make Smart, Empowered Career Choices

There’s no better feeling than hearing those words: “You booked it!”

Whether it's a short film, a regional theater play, or your first co-star role on TV, getting cast feels like a jolt of recognition—a tangible “yes” to all your hard work, training, and talent. And that feeling? It’s real. You should celebrate it.

But once the applause in your head settles, a deeper question arises—one that every actor, from beginner to seasoned pro, needs to learn to ask:

Is this job actually right for me and my career?

Saying yes to work just because it’s offered is something many actors do, especially early on. You may feel pressure to always stay “busy,” to prove yourself, or to be seen as easygoing and grateful. But here’s the truth:

You are the CEO of your career.
Every yes you give is an investment of your time, energy, and reputation.

It’s not just about getting work—it’s about getting the right work.

To help you make those decisions with clarity and confidence, I created a framework I call The 5 Ps Formula. It’s a practical, empowering tool that helps you evaluate offers from all angles—so you can say yes to roles that support your growth, goals, and artistic voice.

Introducing the 5 Ps: A Career Decision Tool for Actors

Here’s how it works: For every project you’re offered, evaluate it based on five key categories. Give each one a score from 1 to 10, and ask yourself:

Is at least one of these categories an 8 or above?
If yes, the offer might be worth accepting. If not, it may be time to pass.

Let’s break it down.

1. PAY

It’s okay to talk about money—and even prioritize it sometimes. You are a working artist, not a hobbyist. Even if the project doesn’t excite you artistically, strong compensation may serve your larger goals.

Ask yourself:

• Does this job help fund other areas of my business (classes, headshots, time off for passion projects)?
• Does the pay honor the time and effort I’ll be giving?

Example:
You're offered a corporate training video. It’s not glamorous, but it pays well and shoots in one day. That income could cover a new reel edit. Score this one high.

2. PART

Is the role itself exciting or strategic? You don’t always need the lead role to gain traction. Sometimes a small but pivotal character can showcase a different side of your skill set—or open doors in a new medium.

Ask yourself:

• Does the role challenge me or help me stretch?
• Will this help fill a gap on my resume or reel?

Example:
You’ve mostly done stage but get offered a 2-line part in an indie film. It’s a small on-camera start—but it gets your foot in the door. Worth considering.

3. PEOPLE

Who else is involved in the project? Relationships matter in this business. Working with respected actors, directors, writers, or producers—even in a small role—can be a stepping stone to future opportunities.

Ask yourself:

• Is this someone I want to collaborate with again?
• Will I be proud to list this person or company on my resume?

Example:
You’re cast in a workshop with a well-known director and writer team. It’s unpaid, but they’re mounting a Broadway show in the next season. High value.

4. PLACE

Where is this project happening? Location matters—whether it’s the prestige of the venue or the lifestyle benefits of the location. Sometimes, where you work can elevate your visibility or just refill your cup.

Ask yourself:

• Is this a respected venue or festival?
• Will this experience improve my resume or my well-being?

Example:
You’re invited to perform at a major regional theater in another state. It’s not a lead, but it’s a big name on your resume and gives you time to focus fully on the craft. Very worth considering.

5. PROJECT

Does this story matter to you? Is it aligned with your mission, identity, or voice as an artist? Sometimes, a project touches your heart, speaks to your values, or allows you to explore a character you’ve been longing to play.

Ask yourself:

• Does this reflect the kind of work I want to be known for?
• Will I be proud to share this with the world?

Example:
You’re cast in a new play that deals with social justice issues you care deeply about. It’s a small role, but the message resonates. This may be the most important “yes” you say all year.

The Power of the Pass

Let’s be clear: saying no doesn’t mean you're ungrateful or full of yourself. It means you’re a working professional with standards and a clear vision. It means you’re making room for the right opportunities to find you.

Each time you pass on something that doesn’t serve you, you reinforce your value—to yourself and the industry.

Final Thoughts: Say Yes With Purpose

This career isn’t about collecting credits for the sake of staying busy. It’s about building a body of work that reflects your voice, your values, and your brilliance.

Use the 5 Ps as a guide whenever you’re faced with a decision. Let it remind you that your time and talent are valuable resources—and that you don’t need to justify wanting more, better, or different.

You're not here to hustle endlessly.
You're here to create intentionally.

Because your career?
It belongs to you—and every yes should reflect that.