One of the biggest misconceptions as a starting-out actor is that they think that the casting director is waiting to catch them out. Guilty as charged, I was one of them. And strangely, I don’t even know where the idea came from! “… we need you to be great! We’re here to host your experience and shepherd you in, not hold you back.” said Risa Bramon Gracia, a casting director of over 80 films and shows.

The thing is, if you think that the casting director is out to catch you, then you will begin to try to please them. You will then lose your authenticity and idiosyncrasy, which is the key to your success.

I have read an article by Risa Bramon Gracia, a casting director, and Steve Braun, an acting coach, outlining 21 things you can do to make casting directors happy. I have chosen my top 5 to share with you today.

Enter with certainty. Don’t give up your power as soon as the door opens. – This basically means don’t try to please the casting director. Do what you plan to do.

Make no excuses whatsoever. Leave your baggage outside. Better yet, leave it at home. – Own up to your success and mistakes alike! Take responsibility and not blame.

Know your words and understand what you’re talking about. Make them your very own. – If it doesn’t feel like your own word then it wouldn’t be believable. Simple as that. So, prepare well!

Do your homework on the project. This includes knowing all the players and the show or film’s tone and style. Read all the material you can get your hands on. – Acting isn’t just about emotion. Research and preparation are very important too! Do the most you can.

Make specific, personal, bold decisions. – No one wants to see 10 actors doing the same thing. By making it personal, you make it unique. By making it bold, you make it a tad more interesting to watch.

And that are my top 5 picks. The next time you have an audition, don’t forget to implement these tips! It will help you greatly. If you have your own tips, why not share them with the rest of us in the comment?