You are probably barraged with audition tips and tricks on the daily – but it’s really a matter of basic thinking. What are basic things you know you have control of? What are small things you can do to prepare and adjust your thinking to give you an edge?

Here’s our list of DOs and DONTs regarding your next big audition... It’s all about keeping your head in the game, staying on top of your craft, and maintaining the right energy.

DONTs

1. DON’T try to be a mind-reader. You don’t know exactly what the casting director is looking for, and you probably never will. Be okay with that. Just walk in, show what you’ve got to offer, and let the cards fall how they may. It’s a matter of chance, a good fit, and timing. Uncertainty is the nature of this industry, and the sooner you accept that, the better off you’ll be.

2. DON’T try to be perfect. Because you’re not. That’s the point! Show why you’re different. Show off the qualities that are unique to YOU. Don’t try to be another cooke-cutter replica when the real you might be the next best discovery.

3. DON’T try too hard to be liked. Over-eager, chatty attitudes may backfire and make you come off as annoying to the casting directors. Be professional, show a little personality, but don’t overdo it. Like adding salt to food – less is more.

4. DON’T apologize for any mistakes. Saying ‘sorry’ when you fumble a line takes everyone out of the scene and puts all the attention on the fact that you messed up. Power through it. It shows confidence and focus.

5. DON’T try things you’re not 100% comfortable doing. This means don’t experiment with dialects or accents you’re not confident using, don’t employ a style of humor you’ve never used before, don’t try a new hairstyle or makeup that you aren’t confident in. Basically… if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. If it’s awkward for you, it’ll be awkward for the casting director. If you’re not comfortable, your audition isn’t the time to experiment with new ideas.

DOs

1. DO your homework. Know your material from top to bottom; this gives you more room to experiment and try new techniques. The last thing you want is to mess up your lines, misinterpret the material, or worse – butcher it from lack of preparation.

2. DO play to your strengths. If you’re especially confident in your command of dry/sarcastic humor, use it. If you can cry on cue, use it if it’s appropriate. The point is to show your range, depth, and showcase special talents/techniques that may set you apart from the rest.

3. DO immerse yourself. Walk in ready to show your version of the character. Not yourself. Think your character’s thoughts, not your own. Be driven by your character’s motivations, not your own.

4. DO mentally prepare. Drink water, get plenty of rest, enjoy a light breakfast, meditate, listen to music to get you hyped or in the right mindset – do whatever you need to do to wipe your mind’s slate clean. Whatever gets your head in the game for your big audition – do that. Take it seriously.

5. DO keep your sight 3 steps ahead. If your audition goes well – GREAT. If it doesn’t – that’s totally fine. Don’t get hung up on one or two opportunities. No matter how you feel your audition went, keep moving forward. Keep going out for roles, keep auditioning. When you cast your net out for longer and stay persistent, you have a higher chance of snagging a really great gig.