How to Prepare for Auditions: Tips for Making a Great First Impression on Directors

Once you have found a show or film that you're interested in auditioning in, it is necessary that you prepare properly for it. There are many physical items that you will need for your audition; this article will only brief over them, as I will go over them in more detail in later articles. Items such as your acting resume and headshot are essential and very helpful to the director, but more important to the entire audition is that indefinable first impression.

Your outward appearance should match that of a professional entering an interview. You should be dressed nicely for all your auditions-jeans and a t-shirt will never cut it. For women, a dressy blouse or suit top with some nice slacks or a skirt is perfect. Ladies, beware of skirts that are too short. You don't want the director to think you're a street tart, and if your monologue involves a lot of movement, you definitely don't want to be flashing any unmentionables! Gentlemen, a collared dress shirt with a good pair of pants is perfect. A tie is always a wonderful touch along with your shiny dress shoes. A tuxedo is a little too much, unless you're auditioning at Carnegie Hall.

The entire point of dressing up nicely, being clean and professional, is not only a good first impression, but it shows the director that you care enough about yourself, your craft, and the audition itself-therefore the role and the show-to make a special effort. Showing up looking like you're running late and in your pajamas does not show the director that you can be on time and professional.

Along with your dress, you must also be professional in manner. You are, essentially, interviewing for a job. Always be polite to everyone you meet, including the other auditioners. There will usually be a receptionist of some sort who will provide you with an application, a list of the characters and their descriptions, along with a synopsis of the play or film itself. This will be the person that you will give your resume and headshot to. This person will also report to the director if you were rude. So be nice.

When you do meet the director, shake his or her hand, smile, and be personable. He is a thespian, and is most likely just as crazy or funky as you, so don't be afraid to let your personality show. After you have performed your monologue and answered any questions the director has, always say thank you.

With a snazzy outfit and an outward personality, you've got the edge over your competition. This is just the beginning though. Keep tuning in for the next set of tips to help you on your way to becoming a great actor.