What is the best way to keep actors informed during casting and auditions?

1 Define your needs

Before you start looking for actors, you need to have a clear idea of what you are looking for. What are the roles, the character descriptions, the genre, the tone, and the style of your film? What are the requirements, the expectations, and the compensation for the actors? Write a detailed breakdown of your casting needs and share it with potential candidates. This will help them understand your vision and decide if they are interested and suitable for the project.

2 Choose your channels

There are many ways to reach out to actors and invite them to audition for your film. You can use online platforms, social media, email, phone, or word-of-mouth. Depending on your budget, your timeline, and your target audience, you may want to use different channels or a combination of them. The key is to choose the ones that are most effective and convenient for you and the actors. Make sure you provide clear and accurate information about your project, the casting process, and how to apply.

3 Schedule your sessions

Once you have a pool of applicants, you need to schedule your audition sessions. You can do this online or in person, depending on your preferences and resources. Either way, you need to be organized and respectful of the actors' time. Plan ahead and set a realistic and flexible schedule that allows enough time for each audition and avoids conflicts and delays. Confirm the date, time, and location of the audition with each actor and send them reminders as the day approaches.

4 Give feedback

One of the most important things to do during casting and auditions is to give feedback to the actors. Feedback is essential to show appreciation, respect, and professionalism. It also helps the actors improve their performance and prepare for the next steps. You can give feedback verbally or in writing, depending on your style and the situation. Be honest, constructive, and specific. Don't be afraid to praise, critique, or reject the actors, but do it in a polite and respectful way.

5 Update your status

After the auditions are over, you need to update the actors on your status and decisions. Don't leave them hanging or ghost them. They deserve to know if they are still in the running, if they are shortlisted, if they are cast, or if they are rejected. You can update them via email, phone, or online platforms, depending on your preference and convenience. Be prompt, clear, and courteous. Thank them for their participation and interest and inform them of the next steps or the final outcome.

6 Maintain your relationship

The last thing to do to keep actors informed during casting and auditions is to maintain your relationship with them. Whether they are cast or not, you want to keep in touch with them and build a rapport. You never know when you might work with them again or need their help or referrals. You can maintain your relationship by sending them follow-up messages, newsletters, invitations, or thank-you notes. You can also connect with them on social media, comment on their posts, or share their work.