By Cassy van Eeden

In a recent episode of Idols SA season 11, Unathi Msengana, judge and singer/songwriter, called a KwaZulu-Natal contestant’s performance “the perfect audition”. So how do you pull off the ‘perfect’ audition?

Be prepared

As you may have seen on shows like Idols or X Factor, not being prepared can mean that you make a total fool out of yourself. Being prepared is the best way to give people the impression that you care about the craft, that you are reliable and that you are enthusiastic about the role.

“If you’re singing a song, know all of the words and notes by heart,” says Nicole Hill, owner of TheVeganpreneur. She continues: “If you are acting out a scene or doing a monologue, memorise every word and action of the character. If you are modelling, know the proper way to work and how to nail various facial expressions.”

Showing up unprepared means you can kiss your chances of landing the role or job goodbye.

Make a connection

It is important to make a connection with whoever you are auditioning for. Whether it’s a director or a judge, you need to acknowledge their presence and engage with them.

“Be professional in your speech when you tell the judges your name and [any] other information they require,” says Hill.

Robert Haxton, director, actor and lecturer at CityVarsity, says, “For me, it’s knowing that you [have] made a positive, professional and friendly connection with your casting director."

Although you may not land the part or position on your first audition, if you make a good enough connection, you may be kept in mind for future auditions. Part of creating this connection is not harassing the judges when you get turned down, says Hill. “Do not get upset with the judges if they reject you,” she adds.

Focus on success

The truth is, if you want to be in the entertainment industry, you are going to get rejected more times than you land jobs. What’s most important is to not give up just because someone gave you some criticism or said “no”.

“Just because you did not get the part does not mean the judges rejected you,” says Hill. “You must keep your feelings separate from the audition and simply work on improvements for the next one.”

Haxton agrees: “Learn to love criticism. Failing is inevitable for everyone.” Rather than focusing on your failed attempts, he says, “focus on the wins, it feels better and drives you further”.

Take failure and criticism in your stride and use it to improve your abilities. “Do not get upset with the judges if they reject you,” says Hill, “And do not harass them the next day.”

Have you ever auditioned for something? What is your advice? Let us know in the comments below.