Life and Career Lessons from the Audition Room

You may remember my note a few weeks ago about the Power of Joy & how it can serve as a survival tactic in difficult times.

The headlines are still teeming with uncertainty and a whole lot of “WTF,” so I hope you’ve taken my advice to find pleasure in the things you CAN control, and that you’re doing what you can to create more of it.

As for me, I’ve been using my time outside of work to do more of what I enjoy by using my favorite hobby as a means to endure, driven by the momentum it creates.

This isn’t about opting out (or ignoring what’s important) but about opting IN to what helps me show up as the best version of myself, so I can keep fighting the good fight.

What, exactly, have I been up to? Auditioning for community theater! It’s something I do occasionally, revisiting my past career as a theater professional. It’s been such a joy!

But you know me. Even in the midst of a good time, I’ll look for the lessons, too, so I can share with you what I’ve learned.

Here are my takeaways that you can put into practice right away.

1. Be prepared

Whether it’s a job interview, podcast appearance, or wedding toast, take the time to prepare thoroughly and well in advance. Practice ahead, gather what you need, and anticipate anything that might go wrong.
Show up ready and equipped to give it your best shot. Once, my accompanist missed the mark—but I was so prepared, it didn’t throw me off. I knew that song so well, I stayed on track no matter what.

2. Assume equality

If you’ve prepared, you can walk in with your shoulders back, knowing you’re just as good as anyone else, as good as you need to be. Allowing yourself to be intimidated never helps. Conveying confidence is key to setting the tone, to being treated with respect, and to creating space for success. (I was an outsider, not from their usual pool of talent, but that was no reason to be intimidated.)

3. Do your research

Don’t show up or walk away without the information you need. Gathering details is the best way to avoid misunderstandings, insecurity, or missed opportunities. Ask questions until you’re primed for your next step. (I left knowing what the next steps were and when they’d be letting people know who was cast or not cast).

4. Be kind

Never make assumptions about who someone is, where they stand in the pecking order, or how they can help you. Instead, simply go out of your way to be kind, encouraging, and generous to everyone you meet. Anyone could be the person interviewing you, offering an opportunity, or making a decision that affects your future. Rudeness, dismissiveness, and haughty behavior backfire more than you know.

I’ll keep you posted on whether or not I get the part. But either way, it brought me joy. I hope you’re also experiencing joy, learning, and growing – no matter what else is happening in the world.