First impressions are just as important as your actual audition. Before you step into the room (or hit record on a self-tape), there’s a checklist worth running through to ensure you’re showing up as the prepared, professional, and dependable talent casting directors want to work with.

Before Accepting An Audition

Review Project Details

Before submitting to (or accepting) an audition, make sure you’ve reviewed all the details: the role, shoot dates, location, pay rate, and usage terms. Auditions are not the time to ask questions that were likely outlined in the project’s description.

Confirm Shoot Date Availability

This may seem like a no brainer, but it’s worth emphasizing: only audition for projects you’re available for. Double-check the dates before accepting the audition. It saves both you and the casting director valuable time.

Pre-Audition

Review Storyboard (if provided)

If a storyboard’s attached, take time to review it. It’ll give you a sense of the overall tone, energy, and vision for the project—plus, it helps you better understand the role you’re auditioning for.

Review Script

Unless you’re secretly Mike Ross from Suits, never wing a script. You need time to memorize your lines, explore vocal variations, and experiment with actions while performing the lines. The more you rehearse, the more natural your performance will feel.

Review Wardrobe Notes

Sometimes casting asks you to avoid certain patterns or wear specific looks *i.e. character roles*. Rather than being dismissed as someone who isn’t professional or detail-oriented, pay attention to wardrobe notes and show up as requested.

Bring Headshot & Resume

Unless casting notes otherwise, show up prepared and bring a headshot and resume.

Demeanor While Waiting (in-person auditions)

Are you polite to the check-in person? Are you scrolling on your phone with the audio? What about loudly chatting while an audition is happening in the room next door? Whether you realize it or not, someone is always observing. Being kind and considerate of others in the waiting area. It gives a glimpse into how you might behave on set.

Audition & Callbacks

Arrival & Self-Tape Submissions

Timeliness matters and being late is a big no no. Audition schedules and self-tape submissions are often tightly packed. Arriving or submitting late can throw off the day or even cost you the opportunity altogether. At best, you might be allowed to audition but risk being seen as unreliable.

Since you are a reflection of a casting director’s professional judgment, they may not want to take a risk on someone who appears unreliable or inconsiderate of other’s time.

After all, if you can’t show up to the audition on time, can you be trusted to show up on time to a booked project?

Listening & Following Directions

This is key. Auditions and callbacks are often a test on how well you take direction. You might be asked to slate your name, show your hands, turn in a circle, or share a fun fact about yourself — all before your actual audition. It may seem like a lot to remember *especially if each casting has different requests*, but it’s a great opportunity to demonstrate your ability to take stay present, take verbal cues, adapt, and respond to feedback —all of which are essential skills on set.

The Takeaway

Preparation, professionalism, and attention to detail can set you apart just as much as your performance. Show up ready, and you won’t just be auditioning—you’ll be building a reputation worth calling back.

You might like: On-Set Etiquette That Gets You Called Back or The Unexpected Reason I Booked My First Campaign