With every new TV season, reality shows are on the hunt for a brand new cast of characters, and with the advent of the Internet, cyberspace is a good place for hopefuls to being their quest for a spot on a show.
Many reality shows recruit contestants via their websites, where hopefuls can download and/or fill out applications online.
Research Reality Shows
Before even completing an application, however, one thing all reality wannabes should do, obvious as it seems, is watch the show (or shows) they want to appear in. Watching a few seasons will provide hopefuls with knowledge that can prove useful. Who are the judges? Who is the host? What are mistakes, and victories, previous contestants have experienced?
Previous episodes will also show hopefuls what they would be getting themselves into. Some programs may require contestants to compete challenges, such as eating bugs or posing naked. Others carry situations that may be uncomfortable for some people, such as living away from home and with a group of strangers for a few weeks, or making out with someone on camera.
Potential contestants can also learn what’s key in a particular competition by viewing previous episodes. Take America’s Next Top Model, for instance. The show’s creator and host, Tyra Banks, has often said the potential winner has to know the fashion industry thoroughly.
Image of Reality TV Contestants
Image counts when it comes to TV, and reality TV contests are no exception. On Top Model, a contestant doesn’t have to be a gorgeous creature. Banks has talked about quirky-looking supermodels who photograph amazingly well.
From watching American Idol, wannabe contestants can come to realize judges are looking for a more mainstream singer who will appeal to a broad audience. Previous contestants have included musical theatre singers, and while their voices were great, their showy style isn’t what American Idol is all about.
If a hopeful is serious about winning the competition, they may want to consider if they seriously have what it takes, be it model height, an excellent singing voice or excellent survival skills.
Reality TV Audition Dos and Don’ts
Potential contestants should follow the application rules and be sure they meet requirements. If an application requires hopefuls to submit a full-length photo of themselves, then a photo depicting them to the knees won’t suffice.
If they have to audition on site, hopefuls should arrive prepared. Having read all the information about the show and auditions will help ensure hopefuls are ready. Usually, potential contestants need to endure a long day. Idol hopefuls, more specifically, should be set to sing more than one song.
Key Reality TV Show Application Question
Reality TV contestant application forms may ask contestants why they want to be on the show. Or, they may be asked why they should win, once they are on the show.
Hopefuls may respond with personal reasons: “I want to secure my family’s future/I don’t want to be a waitress forever.” That’s fine, but it may not be enough. Wanting to be a good role model, demonstrating a passion for the industry, showing how and why they are what the judges are looking for, and proving they really want to be there and succeed will probably help contestants formulate better answers.
Finally, personality is important when it comes to reality TV casting calls. It’s likely no one wants to watch a bore on TV. Gimmicks should stay at home, too. They may get someone 10 seconds on screen early in the program, but contestants who show up at auditions dressed as Big Bird usually don’t advance any further.
Reality TV dreams can be fulfilled with some background research of shows and the industries that surround them, adhering to application requirements, and letting one’s true personality shine.
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