Number one thing when you’re auditioning – sounds simple enough and like good common sense– BE NICE!

When I was casting for E! Entertainment Television and the Style Network, if someone wasn’t nice to the parking attendants or the receptionists upon checking in, I heard about it - and quickly. That person was never usually rude to us when they got into the casting room. Of course not. But I’d want to hear if someone was difficult to one of our assistants or receptionists. Chances are, they’re also going to be difficult to work with and you want to find out before you hire them and start production. And recast the show because they’re difficult.

Always be courteous and say “hello” to everyone when you get in the room. No need to shake everyone’s hand – a simple acknowledgement will suffice. We know you’re nervous for your audition, but always be aware of the Casting Director’s time. Follow the Casting Director’s lead – if they ask you a question and engage in conversation, then ok, but be aware that they’re usually behind in their auditions and have a bunch of people in the waiting room, so you don’t want to monopolize their time. It may not be the best time for them to hear about your new projects, new significant other, or which headshots you should go with.

Always follow up with a thank you note. It can be a postcard with your headshot (which I think is a great idea as it helps cement your face and name in their mind), an email, or a handwritten note. You don’t have to keep sending thank you notes if you get called in for callbacks. One acknowledgement will do. And if you actually book the job? ESPECIALLY thank the Casting Director. You have no idea how hard that person probably fought to get you that job. Many people ask if they should send flowers or cookies. It’s a lovely gesture, but really not necessary – at least I don’t think so. These things are really expensive and you work very hard for your money. Like they say, “it’s the thought that counts.”

One more thing I do have to add – don’t wear out your welcome! Unless the Casting Director is a really good friend of yours, I don’t recommend putting them on your joke email list, random thought of the day list, etc. I’ve had that happen where it just turned me off to the talent as I was constantly inundated by their junk email. It’s probably not the impression you want to leave!

- Maureen Browne

ABOUT MAUREEN: Maureen worked as a Casting Executive at E! Entertainment Television and The Style Network for over 5 years where she cast such shows as The Soup, E! News, The Daily 10, Clean House, Live from The Red Carpet, Fashion Police and countless other shows.