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Auditions and interviews

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Charlotte and the bobcats

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Auditions and interviews
23 October 2009

As an actor I’d like to share some observations about the similarities between auditioning for a play and interviewing for a job. I’ve recently returned to acting, including a recent film, and maybe some advice will help both actors and job-seekers.

I realize that under today’s stressful economic conditions just getting an actual interview is more difficult than ever. But someone once observed that “storms don’t last forever” and “rough seas make tough sailors”. Americans know how to ride out the storm.

The interview process, like an audition, is simple: you must sell yourself and your talents in a short span of time. Some experts say an interview’s outcome is determined in the first five minutes – or less. How you look, how you sit, how you speak, how you make an immediate overall impression – that’s what it boils down to. Being you instead of someone else must come through.

Auditioning for a play (or film) is an interview. You must present a certain picture to the director, who has a certain picture of the character and how you match that vision. The physical aspects of acting are more important in many cases than they are during job interviews. How you walk, stand, turn, and sit all make up your image—acting is how you look and sound. Reading dialogue and taking directions are integral parts of the audition. Can you think on your feet, improvise a scene, and change a look or a phrase? On stage you’re exposed for strict scrutiny. Be prepared for questions and comments that may sound nasty at times.

I’ve been through the interview and audition processes too many times to mention. I think I can safely say that the auditions were easier and less stressful. But please don’t misunderstand. No question that getting a job interview with so much at stake is higher up on the stress meter. Auditions are supposed to be more fun, more relaxed. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t disappointed if I didn’t get cast for a part. The director wants to see the real “you” come through as you read your lines and move about the stage.

Maybe that’s one of the secrets to getting through a job interview: be yourself, try to relax, practice deep-breathing to slow down your fast-beating heart. The interviewer doesn’t want you to fail per se. If anything the faster they fill the job the fewer interviews must be conducted. That saves time and money, critical in today’s marketplace. Your ability to “wow” the interviewer should take place as quickly as possible. But you can’t be a phony; it will show through sooner or later. As an actor you’re not a phony either; you’re just being someone else while still maintaining your unique qualities and personality.

There aren’t many opportunities that present themselves for having fun in front of strangers. Everyone must take chances. Taking risks is vital if you want to improve yourself and your situation. I feel I’ve made many people enjoy themselves through my acting. I’ve also worked for many years and influenced others in a positive way. Don’t ever lose your sense of humor. Throughout interviews and auditions always see the fun side. As the saying goes, “If you want omelets you have to break eggs.”