Marketing Tools: Your picture and resume enters the room before you do. It usually decides if you are to be auditioned or not.

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keep it short and sweet. A cover letter reveals your a little of your professional self. So the fact that it's there is important even though it may not actually be read.

• Address a specific person; not a company. If name is unknown, you can use, "Dear Sir or Madame:"

• It should state the enclosures and the purpose of the letter.

"Enclosed please find my picture and resume for your consideration. I am seeking representation in the area of commercials" or "... for your consideration in casting the role of ____ in _______."

• List a handful of highlights or points of interest such as: "I'm a Brad Pitt type who's recently graduated from....", "I'm an expert gymnast", "I've recently returned from doing the National Tour of_______________".

•  End the letter listing your contact info and a thank you.

  "I hope to hear from you at your earliest convenience. You can reach me at (Telephone Number). Thank you so much."

For actors, your headshot and resume are your calling card. They reveal to everyone how you are to be cast and if you are to called in for an audition. It should reveal your personality especially around the eyes. A headshot is an 8"x10", black and white or color photograph (colored is now the trend) shot by a professional photographer. Your headshot must have your name at the bottom. In most cases it will be a close-up of your head and shoulders. Some actors also use a 3/4 length shot which will include some of their body. We recommend you have at least two different looks. 

These are commonly referred to as "Commercial" and "Serious" or "Theatrical" shots.

A "Commercial" headshot is lively, usually smiling and has great energy in your eyes. This shot is used for casting in TV commercials, Sit-Coms or Musical Theatre. It should say, "Hi, nice to meet you." 

A "Serious" or "Theatrical" headshot will be a bit more serious and dramatic roles & projects. It should say, "I've got a secret." 

Your résumé is a list of extremely important information including your work experience, training, vital stats and special skills. Casting directors and your Manager/ Agent use your résumé to determine whether or not you are right for a job. As you gain more experience, your résumé will reflect those new jobs. When you are just starting out you should highlight your education, your special and unique skills. (See below for skills that are considered special) Always be truthful on your résumé. A casting director sees new talent everyday, but will never see an actor again if they catch them lying on their résumé. Be patient, if you're good, your résumé will grow soon enough! 

SCROLL DOWN TO SAMPLE RESUME BELOW: