Practical Audition Tips...

Auditioning is barely acting. It's a confidence game. The key to a good audition is clearing away the things that make you nervous and inauthentic, so you can just be the natural performer you are. The more you practice, the better you get.

Here are some more audition tips, I've picked up in my 1700+ auditions. Practical tips.

•Sign in clearly. It happens almost every audition: someone signs in sloppily, which ticks off the casting director, and ruins the positive energy in the room. You want the casting director to be on your side. Signing in legibly is a simple way to do that.

•Always bring headshots. For many legit auditions, headshots are still required. But for commercial auditions, they are often not necessary. But, BRING THEM ANYWAY. Last week, I was at an audition, and the computer system was down. They asked for a headshot, which I had, and the audition went great. (I booked it actually.) The guy after didn't have it, and it made the casting director prickly.

•Arrive on time. In a lot of cases it won't matter-your time is approximate. Sometimes, however, it will be very purposefully scheduled. Again, don't piss off the casting director. Just be there. If you're late, they may call your agent looking for you - then that's another person who thinks you're flaky.

•Stay until the door closes.

•Dress appropriately. Remember that most commercials are geared toward Middle America. Dress like them, not like New Yorkers. Hipsters-I'm talking to you.

And now for two little bits of advice I use from time to time. I'll call these Advanced Practical Audition Techniques.

•If you're not sure whether the casting director wants to shake hands, try this: Extend both of your hands, with your headshot in the left, and your right hand open to shake. The casting director will shake your hand if he/she wants, or just take the headshot. No need for awkwardness.

•As you exit the room, you have one chance for a final impression. Don't just head out of the room, ass to the casting director/director. Grab the handle, turn around and give one more smile before you head out. I don't know why, but THIS WORKS. It gives them one last impression of what a nice face you have.

Talent can't be taught. Marketing can.