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Successfully navigating the realm of casting is crucial to any talent’s progress in the industry. In my experience, I have witnessed a number of moments that fall into the categories of “yes” or “no” for supporting success in booking work. Here are some of those stories.
No
Don’t show up at their home. This has happened to me several times. Once when I was in a building you needed a code to get in, an actor followed someone in, knocked on my door and told me my Dad sent him. It was a Saturday night at dinnertime.
The other time, a known talent called me first and said he got my number from my friend, X, and he was going to stop by. I thought he was joking because I had just moved into a home. I didn’t think he could possibly know where I lived. Then at midnight, he showed up at my door and he had been partying. Well, the nice thing was that my front door led right to the backyard garden and I sat him in the outdoor loveseat. I said, “I’ll be right back.” I got him coffee and we talked.
I waited until he wasn’t drunk anymore to politely ask him to leave. Because, you know, what else are you going to do? You have been respectful, he’s on a major show and he wasn’t being a creep. He was just drunk. And I think most of us have been drunk at one time in our life.
Yes
I received a call out of the blue from someone who wanted me to co-produce a film on location. To me, that meant I was going to be responsible for the other producer whom I did not know and had never worked with before. I ran this by a friend who asked, “Do you have anything on your calendar on those dates?” I said, “No.” And he told me to go. It was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life because every single moment was a new unique experience and was really fun. Don’t be afraid to say yes to unfamiliar experiences offered to you.
No
Not taking care of yourself? You may not get as much water as you need. You may not get as much food as you need. Then you’re deprived, emotional and, well, meltdowns can ensue.
The Rolling Stone Culture Council is an invitation-only community for Influencers, Innovators and Creatives. Do I qualify?
Yes
Name your files so anyone can find you in a search. This means using your name and the nature of the file, i.e., SusanJohnstonheadshot.jpg, SusanJohnstonDemoReel.mp4, etc. You can add your phone number there as well. Find the right compression so your video looks great and it does not take too much time to load. Same for your headshot. If they open it, will it take up so much room they only see your forehead?
Also, your signature should help a casting director with what they need.
Include a thumbnail photo if you can, your name, email (yes, here as well), as well as your website and socials to find you online. Donot put your home address or birthdate.
Yes
Listen to direction. I had to cast unique, special skills talent for a national commercial. I interviewed 800 people. The directions were: you have 15 seconds to perform your skill. I explained the directions, gave each talent 15 seconds, and people were mad at me. Even though the breakdown was stated, that’s how long the spot is. Those who could do their unique special skill in 15 seconds (roughly) got the gig. Those who were mad, did not. I got to cast 20 amazing people doing amazing things, some legendary. If you do that in 15 seconds and that’s what the spot is and that’s what the casting notice says, you’re probably going to get the job, which, in this case, paid well.
No
Do not send provocative headshots unless the role calls for it and you are asked. I understand people do and sometimes they get booked, but most of the time, things go south quickly because talent was not hired for acting talent. This is also one way careers can go sour. If I ask you for a full body, send a full body.
Yes
Know how to read a room. This means understanding body language and eye contact or lack thereof. Always be polite even if they are not, and make sure you leave right away after the casting session is over.
You have the talent, you understand the business side of show business — you will do great!
