These last few weeks I have been involved with organising an audition. I have received over 150 C.V.’s and it had been really clear how important they are in the initial contact with a producer. In a sense this is to do with the first module – positioning of self but as ever I think the practical experience of working is a great teacher and wanted to share some observations. These are about applying to applications via e-mail.
1) Don’t name your CV file (the one you send attached to an e-mail ) C.V. doc, or “proffesionalCV.doc” because if everyone does that there are a few problems. Firstly, as I save them on my computer the computer thinks they are the same file and can easily replace yours with the next one that is named the same thing. Secondly, I cannot tell who it is I am looking at or looking for in files unless I open the whole file each time I want to check something. This adds hours on the job of sorting through them and does not leave you feeling very good. So name the file you send “yournamecv.doc”
2) If it is a professional appointment you want. Start the c.v. with your professional experience in the specific area the job is involved with(ie site-specific dance), then your experience in general (ie dance work). Don’t start with your training.
3) If its e-mail don’t send a picture separately the two get lost from each other as soon as they are saved unless you match the names (ie yournamepicture.doc, yournameCV.doc)
4) Lastly, a short introductory e-mail with the CV is useful and can set up great expectations for opening the CV doc. But make sure you have researched who the people are involved in the job and what their interests are. Don’t send something that is obviously what you sent to everyone about being interested in their work. Check who has what roles in the production so you don’t tell the producer or the project manager you love their choreography!
What have your experiences been on this? What do you think? Are there links to ideas about research methods and the insider researcher here?
Adesola
Thank you, Adesola, for a useful insight into how our audition applications are received by potential employers. The fourth point that you raise is one that I have always been conscientious about, and in doing so thought I would be making a good initial impression on whichever company I may be contacting. I had, however, never even considered the logistics of somebody having to manage hundreds of applications at the other end, and I must admit to being one of the 'cv.doc' club! This is something that I will change instantly, as it is no trouble for me to do so, but will make a few people's lives that little bit easier I'm sure!
ReplyDeleteI've found your inside perspective on a small part of the audition process both useful and interesting. I am aware that you are casting for a new show with 'State of Emergency' this weekend. All the best with the auditions, and I would be interested to know your perspective on them from the other side of the panel's table!
Laura
Hi, thank you for this post it has been useful, I am now going to be changing the names of my documents because I know it'd my Cv etc but the people i'm sending it to don't. So a very valid point. Finding out qualitative opinions from behind the panel such as yourself are would be useful in terms of research methods. I feel these are areas rarely covered by any thought and reflection due to the fast paced process of auditioning; no one had time to say "in future could you please email a cover letter and make sure you label this ....." so I am grateful for this useful information. Lucy
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