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When you get an audition for a commercial you should be thrilled. Getting the audition alone is like winning the lottery and a spot hundreds and thousands of other actors would like to be in. Therefore you want to make the most out of your opportunity and convince the casting director you’re the right one for the role or at the very least make them want to call you in again for another audition.

1. Without your headshot and resume Always have a headshot and resume with you. Make sure they are stapled and the resume is cut to the same size as the headshot. It’s very important as this is your business card and your physical representation once you leave.

2. Getting too friendly with the CD Touching the casting director is out of the question. You may not be sick but they don’t know that and after seeing a hundred people a day they need to protect themselves.

3. Chew gum while auditioning Chewing gum on camera looks terrible. So unless the role asks you to specifically be chewing gum or blowing bubbles, don’t do it. Fresh breath is great but throw your gum out before you enter the audition room.

4. Excessive talking A polite “hello” or “how are you doing” is fine but much more than that or a question is too much. They have a job to do and so do you, stick to that and you’ll be respected more.

5. Crashing If you weren’t called in the first time there’s likely a reason why so don’t disrespect the casting director and decide to show up unexpectedly like no one will notice because they will and you may be blacklisted for it.

6. Being late Auditioning is your job, don’t show up late. Like every other job they do take notice and will consider all factors in hiring you if it comes down to it.

7. Make excuses Do not make excuses for not being prepared. There is no excuse. You should show up early to get the copy if there’s one, look over the storyboard and get yourself ready. Casting directors get tired of hearing excuses. If something’s not perfect just go with it and try your best. They will respect you a lot more for just coming in and doing your job.

8. Discussing your vocal, dance or acting skills Everyone in entertainment can act, sing and dance. So when the ask you personality questions and want to know what you like to do talk about something else. Be a real person with them, that’s what they’re looking for.

9. Be rude No matter what, don’t be rude to anyone, including other actors. A casting assistant or someone else could be watching and no one wants to hire a rude actor.

10. Lie You’ll only get caught. When they ask you if you can ice skate and blow bubbles if you can’t then just admit it but say something to the effect that you’re a fast learner or happen to do other things. If you lie and they suddenly ask you to do those things you said and you can’t you’ll look like a fool.

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