Why I Completely Changed My Resume

Since 1984, when I first got started in the acting and modeling industry (while I was a full-time college student), I always listed the character name for any TV or film projects, on my resume. I knew that on the West Coast, most actors would not have a character name (unless it was a recognizable character on a TV show or film), but instead they would list Lead, Co-Star, Supporting, etc…

Recently, I have been advised that many casting directors and agents on the East Coast are expecting that same format. Casting directors and agents have no idea of the importance of the role if I list let’s say, Adam Miller on my resume, as the character I played in “A Modest Suggestion” (an independent feature that I recently completed). However, they will understand the importance of the role if I have Starring or Lead on my resume.

Sometime old habits are hard to break, but I think the suggestion that was offered to me about changing my resume is a great one.  So now, I will place the characters name, but also add the type importance of the character in parenthesizes next to the name.  Yesterday, I spent hours completely re-editing my resume.

You can see a great sample of resume and use it as a template for your resume in my book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model.

Speaking of changes, with the new technologies and ways of doing things today, we all need to learn, adapt and embrace the changes that have occurred in the acting and modeling industry.

How have you created your resume? Add a new comment below.

About the Author: Aaron Marcus

Aaron Marcus has been a full-time actor and commercial model for over 33 years. His new book, How to Become a Successful Actor and Model is an Amazon Best Seller. Aaron has given his seminar: "Book the Job" over 700 times spanning 3 continents. He also offers online workshops. Aaron saves 5 days each month to give private on-line coaching sessions.