How to Be in Commercials

If you've always wanted to be in television commercials, there is a path you can take to achieve that dream. Commercials can pay quite well, particularly ones that are shown nationally. The amount of commercial roles available will vary according to where you live. Large markets such as New York and Los Angeles have a bevy of commercial auditions. However, there is much greater competition in these areas. Smaller markets may be smarter for the beginner since these aren't as saturated with competition.

Instructions

1. Enroll in a commercial class or workshop. If you have no acting experience, it's wise to get some training under your belt. Commercial auditions come in a variety of different formats, and you want to be prepared for all of them. Good commercial training will polish your talent so you're ready to perform well in auditions.

2. Get commercial head shots. As an actor, your head shot is your calling card. Your photo is submitted to casting directors on projects in order to get you auditions. You'll also need to bring one to every audition you attend. In a commercial head shot, you should be smiling. Commercial casting directors often want to see what your teeth look like and the upbeat energy conveyed in a smile.

3. Create a resume which you will attach to your head shot. List your name, height, weight, hair color, and eye color on your resume. List any union affiliations you have. You should also list any acting experience you have, including film, television and stage roles. Create a section for training and eduction. Include a special skills section at the bottom of your resume where you can list any languages you speak, instruments you play or any other relevant information.

4. Sign up for online casting services. Sites like Actors Access and Now Casting regularly list commercial projects for which you can submit yourself. Many people get auditions through such services. See the links to some of these services in our Resources section.

5. Submit your head shot, resume and a brief cover letter to commercial agencies in your area. An agent will open all kinds of doors for you commercially since you won't be able to get many substantial commercial auditions without one. If you don't receive a response from your first mailing to agents, send another one in a few months.

6. Arrive early to every commercial audition you get. Oftentimes, material isn't given out ahead of time for commercials. Get there early so you can review and prepare any material they have at the audition.

7. Be flexible in your audition. If you are too stiff, you won't book the job. Instead, aim to have fun and take any direction given.

Tips & Warnings

• Be persistent. It takes a while to establish a commercial acting career.

• Never show up for an audition if you don't have an appointment unless it is specified as an open-call audition.

Resources

• Actors Access
• Now Casting