How to Create a Resume for an Acting Position

Create a good acting resume to get that role.

Whether looking for representation from a talent agency or trying to land an audition on your own, a strong, professional resume is essential for an actor. Similar in some respects to a regular resume, an actor's resume uses a a slightly different format that you should follow if you want talent agents, scouts, producers and directors to take you seriously and, hopefully, call you in for an audition.

Instructions

1. Find a professional photographer in your area and make an appointment to get your headshots taken. If you are on a tight budget, find a student photographer with good equipment who will give you a discounted rate. Choose several of the best shots, which should feature you from the shoulders up, face-on. Color is more common today than in prior years, but black and white is acceptable. Try to let the photos capture your true look and personality. When you walk through the door at an interview/audition, you want to seem like the same person as in the photo. Print several 8" by 10" poses showing different facets of your personality and choose the one to submit, attached to your resume, that seems most appropriate for a given role.

2. For the written part of your resume, use your word processing program to create a centered header at the top of the page. Type your name in a larger (20- or 22-pt), bold font, followed by your contact information in a regular (10- or 12-pt) font. If you have an agent, include his name and the name of his agency, together with their contact information, directly beneath the header.

3. Set the text to left-justified. In 10- or 12-pt. font, list your height, weight and the colors of your skin, hair, and eyes.

4. Create a "Work Experience" or "Representative Roles" section. If you have extensive experience, divide it into separate categories (i.e.,"Stage," "Film," "Television," "Radio," "Modeling"). List each part you have played in reverse chronological order (most recent first). List the name of the play, film or TV/radio program; your role; the location or name of the director and/or producer; and the date(s).

5. Create a "Special Skills" heading. List any talents that might be useful for the types of acting positions you are applying for. If your work experience section is short and you are early in your career, use this section to fill out your resume. Even the most obscure talent could make you the perfect fit for a certain acting position.

6. Create an "Education" header and list your degree(s), most recent first, and only if they are applicable to acting (conservatory training, university major, etc.). Include the institution and type of degree.

7. Load your printer with white or neutral-bond 8-1/2" by 11" paper. Print your resume. Place it back to back with your photo and staple each corner. You may also use glue or tape, but if you only rely on these, the parts may separate as it gets passed around, so staples are advisable. Trim the typed section to fit the 8" x 10" photo.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not list your birthday or age along with your other personal statistics. Roles are cast based on looks and talent, and you may land the role of a character younger or older than you really are.

References

• Acting Biz: The Perfect Acting Cover Letter
• Best Sample Resume: Acting Resume Tips