No one cares about you. And other useful advice

Decided against my better judgement to post this but have noticed a massive surge in a certain type of newbie coming into the scene. And I hope to offer some useful advice.

So first of all, welcome! Regardless of who you are and how obnoxious you are, and regardless of your (probably terrible) motivations for doing comedy, a definite welcome!

If you haven't already joined the Perth Comedy Collective, definitely suggest the resources it has to offer.

Nonetheless, for all the frequently asked questions, there's so much information available if you:

1. Google it.

2. Look at the pinned posts in this group.

3. Go to shows and talk to comics. Most are very friendly here.

Just get yourself booked onto gigs you can find, not just the ones you want. You will get information at every step along the way.

This is a very self service environment in Perth. It's done this way to improve overall efficiency of the hundreds of active performers across the 20 or so comedy clubs around town.

It's only gonna get more challenging as the growth of people outpace the number of rooms. Competency and quality connection will get you more spots. It's a hard sell to get people to come to shows. So just be someone that is easy to work with or a good fit to the ecosystem of the rooms.

Ultimately your priority is to increase your competency. It takes time and this is a 10 year apprenticeship for most. If you're not on stage you could be practicing, writing or doing something. Professional development. Creative projects etc. This industry is more of a blank canvas especially these days. While working at a pace, be patient for opportunities.

Seriously though have fun. Observe the lunacy, the egos, the incompetent, the competent, the social climbers, the professionals, the ones who gig the most, and the amusing commentary of many has-beens who havent even been. Study from everyone around you, particularly the ones who are doing things that align with your goals and objectives.

But when you start out, assume no one cares about you. Believe it or not, this acceptance takes a lot of the weight off your shoulders. Like a kid learning to ride a bicycle the first time, the expectations are all mostly in your own head. Most people are far too busy on their own endeavours let alone yours.

Also assume you're always in some sort of queue - full of talented acts struggling and working hard for the same goals.

This will make this equity building process a lot easier for you and a lot of your peers will respect you for being in the trenches with them.

Good luck!