how to write an actor resume

Actor Resume Example for 2024 [W/ Detailed Guide & Free Templates]

Whether it’s on the stage or in front of the camera, you feel great in the spotlight.

You’re an actor looking for your next starring role, and you know you’ve got what it takes.

There are just a few lines you can’t seem to nail.

Try as you might, your resume just doesn’t convey your talent and devotion to the craft. You spend hours pacing and wondering if you’ll ever get past it.

But there’s no need to get dramatic just yet.

This article is here to teach you how to transform your actor resume into a role-winning calling card.

We’re going to cover:

• What a Blockbuster Actor Resume Example Looks Like
• 11 Steps to Writing a Flawless Actor Resume
• What Your Actor Resume Should Include

…and so much more!

And enter, stage right.

Actor Resume Example

This is a shining example of an actor resume.

So let’s look at what it does right:

• Fits on one page. This actor resume uses every bit of space available to fit all the sections into one page.
• Uses the reverse-chronological resume format. The candidate uses the resume format that shows their most recent roles first, so the casting directors have a clear view of their career progression.
• Includes all the necessary contact details. The contact information here includes the candidate’s full name, phone number, email address, and a link to their Instagram.
• Features an eye-catching resume summary. This great resume summary captures the hiring manager’s attention by mentioning the candidate’s years of experience, top achievements, and notable skills.
• Quantifies achievements. Highlighting measurable successes like boosted ticket sales or nominations shows the true impact of this actor's previous performances.
• Keeps the education section brief. A short education section makes sure that the candidate's roles and achievements are center stage, which is exactly what casting directors are interested in.
• Adds other sections. This actor resume uses acting workshops, awards, and hobbies to give depth to their application.

11 Steps for a Stellar Actor Resume

You’ve seen what an actor’s resume is supposed to look like, so now it’s your turn to play the part.

Here’s how to fill in every section of your actor resume:

#1. Decide on the Format (and Layout)

Scene lighting directs the audience's attention to what matters most.

The format you choose for your actor resume plays the same role.

There are three primary resume formats you can pick from:

• Reverse-chronological (also called chronological)
• Functional (also known as the skill-based format)
• Combination (which merges elements of both)

For 99% of cases, the reverse-chronological format is your best choice.

This resume format puts the spotlight on your latest roles and achievements, which is what casting directors want to see first.

Plus, it's the go-to format for hiring managers worldwide.

Here’s how it looks:

Now that the lights are on, it’s time to set the stage. Enter, the resume layout .

Looks matter, and before a hiring manager reads your resume, they’re going to look at it.

Follow these tips to make sure your actor resume leaves a good first impression:

• Set the font size. Your resume’s font determines its readability. Stick to 10-12 pt for the body of your text and use 14-16 pt for headings, so the hiring manager doesn’t have to squint.
• Use bullet points. Avoid long paragraphs and organize the information on your resume into bullet points. It will make your resume more visually appealing and reader-friendly.
• Adjust the line spacing. The line spacing on your actor resume should be set to 1.0 between text and 1.15 after subheadings and section titles. Anything outside these limits can make your resume look too cluttered or too empty.
• Stick to one page. The best length for your actor resume is one page unless you have decades of relevant experience to list.
• Save it as a PDF. The best format for your actor resume is always PDF, since it stays the same across any device or OS a hiring manager might use to open it. Only use a different format, such as a Word resume , if the job ad specifically requests it.

Or Use a Resume Template

Creating the perfect actor resume from scratch takes away valuable time that you could be using to learn your next lines.

You have to set the margins, fix the line spacing, try different font styles and sizes to see what works best, and keep everything from spilling over to a second page.

What if you could skip all of that?

Give any of our free, tried-and-tested resume templates a shot and save valuable time.

Our templates are designed in close collaboration with leading HR professionals from around the world to guarantee that your resume blends professionalism with style.

Take a look at how our resume templates compare to a standard text editor resume template:

#2. Provide the Right Contact Information

The contact information is probably the easiest section to fill out on your actor resume.

All this section needs is to be factual - no matter how talented you are, you’re not getting an audition if your phone number has a typo in it.

Here’s what you need to include in this section:

• Full Name. ( E.g. Constantine Dancy )
• Title. ( E.g. Actor )
• Phone Number. If you’re applying for a role abroad, be sure to include your country’s dial code in front of your phone number.
• Email Address. Keep your email address professional and preferably related to your name. ( E.g. [email protected] , not [email protected] )
• Location. Your city and state/country are usually enough, but if you’re looking to relocate for a role, be sure to specify that somewhere in your resume.
• Social media (optional). You could include a link to a relevant social media profile, such as a dedicated Instagram or Facebook page.

When To Include Your Agent’s Contact Information

If you’re represented by an agent, that’s who casting directors should be talking to first.

Your agent is the first point of contact for anyone interested in you, so your contact information should reflect this.

Instead of adding your own phone number and email address, list your agent’s.

Here’s how this can look on your actor resume:

Contact information

Constantine Dancy

Represented by Todd Hughes

+44 7700 900907

[email protected]

Should You Include A Picture?

As a general rule, yes , your actor resume should include a clear picture of you.

You might choose to add a small headshot at the top of your resume, next to your contact information. This gives any casting director an immediate idea of what you look like, but you’ll likely be asked to submit a larger photo as an attachment.

Talent agencies advise that you attach a separate, high-quality headshot along with your resume. Contact a professional photographer and get a few great pictures you can choose from before sending in your application.

If you have to leave your application in person, make sure the photo is attached firmly to your resume so it doesn’t get lost.

#3. Write a Convincing Resume Summary (or Objective)

Stepping onto the stage, every actor dreams of captivating the audience from the start as they get lost in the character's world.

And you want your resume to invoke that “wow” factor from the start, too. This is why you should add a small paragraph at the top of your actor resume to grab casting directors’ attention from the get-go.

Think of this brief 3-4 sentence segment as a trailer for the rest of your resume. It should offer a sneak peek that makes the hiring manager want to explore the entire story of your professional journey.

You have two options to choose from:

• Resume summary. If you’re an actor who already has some significant roles to their name, the resume summary is the perfect tool to highlight your years of experience, previous roles, and any significant achievements.
• Resume objective. If you’re new to life on the set, like a recent drama school graduate, or are switching from a different field, go for a resume objective instead. It shines a light on your passion, professional aspirations, and qualifications, rather than acting credits.

Let’s look at some practical examples.

First, an experienced actor's resume summary:

Versatile stage actor with 4+ years of experience, eager to bring depth and nuance to roles at Shakespeare Theater Company. Notable performances in "Hamlet" and "Othello," receiving acclaim for embodying complex characters. Collaborative and dedicated, with a talent for both drama and comedy. Trained in Stanislavski and Meisner techniques.

Any casting director would think this resume is worth reading from the get-go. 

But even a student with no experience can make an impression. So, let’s see a less experienced actor’s resume objective:

Drama school graduate, passionate about joining the ensemble at Broadway Beginnings. Keen to bring fresh perspectives to classical roles and collaborate on innovative productions. Trained in physical theater, voice modulation, and improvisation. Grounded in theatrical history and performance theory.

#4. Describe Your Work Experience

The work experience section is the heart of an actor's resume.

It’s the section every casting director is going to read first, so you should be very careful when writing it.

Here's how to format the work experience section the right way:

• Organize it in reverse chronological order. Always begin with your most recent roles and then move back to earlier ones. Skip anything that’s too dated or irrelevant - your summer gig in a community play when you were 12 won’t hold much weight.
• State your exact role. Whether you played the lead, a supporting role, or even a background character, state it clearly. Avoid jazzing it up or downplaying it (e.g. "Lead Role" is straightforward and professional, while "Star of the Show" might come off as exaggerated and arrogant).
• Give the production details. Say what the title of the production and its location are. If the show or movie isn’t well-known, you can give a brief description for context.
• Note the performance period. Using the mm/yyyy format keeps things clean and consistent throughout your resume.
• Detail your role and accomplishments. This is where you should dive into the essence of your character, the acting methods you used, and your role in the production’s success. Use bullet points to outline significant scenes, skills you portrayed, or achievements you contributed to.

Actors’ work experience is usually called “Acting Credits” and focuses on the roles they’ve held. If your acting experience includes coaching and other production work beyond acting, then writing “work experience” is more appropriate.

That’s all there is to formatting your actor resume’s work experience.

But if you want this section to shine, you have to push beyond the basics.

Follow these tips to rise above all other actors auditioning for the same role:

• Tailor your work experience to the casting call. Carefully read the casting brief and find out exactly what they’re looking for. If the role needs a Shakespearean-trained actor with experience in improv comedy, your actor resume should center on your performances and training that highlight those skills the most.
• Focus on achievements over small-time gigs. The casting director knows the standard responsibilities of a background actor or theater performer, and they won’t be impressed by them. So instead, highlight all roles or projects where you brought something unique to the table and the support your performance received.
• Quantify your achievements. Be as specific as possible whenever you can. Mention the size of the audience, the run of the show, or the percentage of ticket sales. This provides a clear picture of the scale and impact your work has.
• Use powerful verbs. Drop the boring “participated in” or “performed in" and choose more dynamic action words. For example, 'Led a cast of 20+ in a critically acclaimed rendition of “Hamlet”' packs a bigger punch than 'Acted in “Hamlet”'.

Let’s look at an example of an actor’s work experience section:

Supporting Actor

Flux Theater Troupe

Summerville, CT

03/2022 - Present

• Played a pivotal role in 3 major theater productions, receiving praise for versatility and character depth.
• Collaborated closely with directors and fellow actors, improving scene dynamics and overall flow.
• Attended 10+ workshops for skill enhancement, focusing on method acting and improvisation techniques.
• Took on the challenge of portraying a complex character in a modern adaptation of a classic play, leading to sold-out shows for two weeks straight.

What if I don’t have work experience?

If you're stepping onto the stage or set for the first time, not having a lengthy acting resume can seem daunting.

But your actor resume can still show your acting abilities and devotion to the craft!

All you have to do is list acting credits that aren’t contracted, such as school plays or club productions.

Here are some examples you can consider:

• Drama school or acting classes
• School or college theater roles
• Volunteering for community theater
• Personal or independent film projects
• Relevant workshops and seminars

For example, if you volunteered for a role in your local community theater's production, that’s a valuable experience that can boost your actor resume.

Here’s how that might look in practice:

Lead Actor & Assistant Director

Mapleton Community Theater

03/2021 - 10/2021

• Volunteered as the lead for a community production, receiving commendations for powerful performances.
• Assisted the director in scene setups and scheduling, ensuring smooth rehearsal sessions.
• Took charge of organizing a workshop for the cast, honing everyone's skills in voice modulation and body language.
• Interacted with the audience post-shows to gather feedback, leading to better performances and tighter scenes.
• Collaborated with local schools to host theater days, exposing students to the magic of stage acting.

#5. Mention Your Education

Actors do need formal training or workshops to refine their craft.

But if you've already landed significant roles, you don’t need to put too much emphasis on your education section .

Casting directors are more interested in your acting credits and specific skills. So, keep your education section brief and start with your most recent degree or course.

Here’s what you need to add:

• Degree Name. E.g., Bachelor in Dramatic Arts, Workshop in Method Acting
• Institution Name. E.g., The New York Acting Studio
• Location (optional). E.g., New York, NY
• Dates Attended. Stick to the mm/yyyy format for consistency (e.g. 08/2019 - 05/2022)

If you’re fresh out of acting school, you might want to delve deeper into your training. Describe specific courses or a standout performance to show off your acting prowess.

Here’s how this section would look on an actor’s resume:

Bachelor in Dramatic Arts, Specialization in Classical Theatre

The London Drama Academy

09/2019 - 07/2023

Courses: Shakespearean Performances, Voice and Movement Techniques, Improvisational Theatre, Character Development, Modern Drama Interpretation

#6. Mention Acting Workshops and Training Camps

In the acting world, honing your craft is the key to success. This is where acting workshops and training camps come in. 

These acting classes are usually taught by big names in the industry, so you get to learn from the best of the best and show it off on your actor resume.

Casting directors will be interested in seeing your skills, experience, and who you’ve learned from. Acting workshops and training camps show you’re always looking to improve.

Plus, you never know when a workshop you attended might catch a casting director’s eye or match a role they’re looking to fill.

Let’s take a look at an example of acting workshops on a resume:

Workshops & Training Camps

• Shakespearean Acting Intensive - June 2023 London Theatre Workshop, London, UK Instructor: Dame Judith Harrow
• Scene Study & Character Development - February 2023 New York Acting Studio, New York, NY Instructor: Michael Lorne

#7. List Your Relevant Skills

Another important section of your actor resume is dedicated to your skills.

Your talent and acting skills are your ticket to impressing directors and casting agents. Your skills as an actor can range from your ability to emote on cue to your knack for accents and dialects.

So, it's essential to highlight the right acting skills on your resume. You don’t need to jot down every single skill you have—just focus on the ones required by the role you’re after.

For example, if you're after a role in a historical drama, your singing skills might not be as crucial as your understanding of the era's language and mannerisms.

Here are some tips to create a standout skills section for your actor resume:

• Cater to the role. Read the casting call or role description carefully. If it mentions any specific skills, add the ones you have to your actor resume.
• Research the right skills and practice them. The world of acting is ever-evolving and diverse, and you never know what skills you’ll need for a role. Attend regular acting workshops to keep your acting skills sharp and stay updated on developments in the exact field you’re interested in. (E.g., if you’re looking to get into musical theater, practice your singing and dancing skills more than sword-fighting.)
• Separate your hard skills from your soft skills. Organize your soft skills (like communication) separately from your hard skills (like dancing or martial arts). This way, it's easier for casting directors to find exactly what they're looking for on your actor resume.

So you know how to list your acting skills.

Now here’s a list of the 65 most in-demand skills for actors to help inspire you!

65 Most In-Demand Acting Skills

17 acting soft skills.

• Active listening
• Collaboration
• Adaptability
• Emotional intelligence
• Observational skills
• Self-discipline
• Time management
• Reliability
• Problem-solving
• Cultural awareness
• Memory retention
• Public speaking
• Feedback receptivity

48 Acting Hard Skills

• Stanislavski Method
• Meisner Technique
• Lee Strasberg's Method
• Michael Chekhov Technique
• Uta Hagen's Technique
• Diction and pronunciation
• Voice modulation
• Breath control
• Script analysis
• Sight reading
• Cold reading
• Improvisation
• Physical characterization
• Vocal projection
• Accent acquisition
• Movement techniques
• Stage fighting
• Film acting techniques
• TV acting techniques
• Theatrical stage presence
• Singing and vocal training
• Comedic timing
• Dramatic interpretation
• Character development
• Audition techniques
• Monologue mastery
• Classical training
• Alexander Technique
• Camera awareness
• Voice-over technique
• Motion capture technique
• Dialect coaching
• Period-specific training (e.g., Renaissance, Victorian, etc.)
• Stage makeup application
• Casting Networks
• Commercial acting techniques
• Scene study
• Vocal warm-up routines
• Memorization techniques
• Self-taping and recording
• Use of props and set elements
• Ensemble work

You don’t need to be an Oscar enthusiast to know that awards make a difference.

As an actor, your awards show casting directors how endorsed your talents are and what you can bring to the table—applause, recognition, and sales. 

Just to give you an idea, casting directors and audiences alike want some of the most nominated actors .

Whether it’s a prestigious international honor or a local theater award, dedicating a section to these accomplishments in your actor resume helps set you apart from other candidates for the same role.

Here’s what your awards can look like on your resume:

Awards & Honors

• Best Supporting Actor - 2023 International Film Festival for "Whispers in the Wind"
• Outstanding Theater Performance - 2021 National Theater Awards for "Midnight's Lullaby"
• Emerging Talent of the Year - 2019 Global Acting Guild Awards

#9. References

Unlike many fields, where references on your resume are optional and rarely checked, the acting world thrives on trust and reputation.

A director or casting agent might recognize a reference’s name, such as an actor who mentored you or a reviewer who’s written about you.

References on your actor resume don’t have to be limited to the names and contact details of someone you know. You can include links to your past work, testimonials, reviews, and more.

Casting directors or agents will likely recognize the name of your reference or the publication you’re mentioned in, and that can give you instant credibility. 

References from respected industry professionals can also back up your work ethic and reliability, which means no one will have to worry about you being unreliable.

Here’s an example of what references can look like on your actor resume:

• James Langley Family friend and retired Broadway actor [email protected] (555) 123-4567
• Theater Performance Review Stellar Performance in 'Moonlit Dreams' by Candice Terry Link: www.theatertimes.com/moonlitdreams-review

#10. Consider Adding Optional Sections

If you have any room left on your actor resume, you can fill it up using optional sections.

These sections are like powdering your nose one last time before jumping onto the stage - they aren’t essential, but they can be a nice touch that helps your resume stand out.

Here are some optional sections you can include:

• Memberships. Being a member of an acting guild or other organization can show dedication to your field, which might sway a hiring manager.
• Certifications. Any certifications that might be useful for the job are a great addition, such as teaching qualifications if you want to be an acting coach.
• Languages. Knowing a foreign language can help you land international roles.
• Hobbies and interests. How you spend your free time can show casting directors that you’re perfect for a certain role. For example, if you play the guitar and you’re auditioning for the role of a rock star, that puts you ahead of actors who can’t.

#11. Create a Matching Cover Letter

When you’re auditioning for a job as an actor, you might wonder— do I even need a cover letter ?

In short, yes. Yes, you do.

Hiring managers don’t just like cover letters; they expect them. So skipping this final step could have consequences.

Writing a cover letter shows that you’re a dedicated candidate and that you truly want this specific role in this specific production.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter for an actor:

Now that you know what a perfect cover letter looks like, it’s time to write your own!

Just follow these cover letter tips , and you’re sure to impress the director:

• Match your contact information. Your cover letter should have a header with the same contact information as your resume. Add the contact information of the hiring manager or place you’re applying to, and keep an eye out for any typos .
• Greet the hiring manager. If you can, find out who’s casting and address them by name. Personalizing your application gives a good impression.
• Open with the highlights. You should always start with a paragraph to pique the hiring manager’s interest. Mention what role you’re writing for and an achievement or qualification that makes you perfect for the role
• Get into the details. The main part of your cover letter should get into the nitty-gritty details of your career so far and elaborate on anything you think your actor resume didn’t give you enough space for. This is the place where your way with words should convince the hiring manager that you’re perfect for the role.
• Wrap it up professionally. Always finish your cover letter with a call to action that invites the hiring manager to do something, like arrange an audition or contact you. And don’t forget to use an appropriate closing line before signing off with your name.

Key Takeaways

And, scene!

That’s everything there is to know about writing your actor resume. Hopefully, now you feel confident about your upcoming audition!

But before you go get that applause, let’s recap what we talked about so far:

• The reverse-chronological resume format is usually the best choice for any actor's resume since it’s a favorite across industries.
• Your resume should include an interesting resume summary that can impress any casting director or hiring manager for the job you have your sights set on.
• Keep your education section brief since your work experience and other achievements carry a lot more weight.
• Tailor your acting skills according to the role you’re auditioning for. The more relevant your skills and experience are, the better.
• Some sections that are usually optional, like workshops, awards, and references, carry a lot of weight to an actor’s resume, so always add them if possible.
• Don’t forget to pair your actor resume with a matching cover letter and increase your odds of impressing the hiring manager.

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Acting Resume

How to make an acting resume.

An actor’s resume, along with an actor’s headshot, is your calling card. It’s there to not only inform casting directors or agents your credits but also your education, acting classes you’ve taken, physical stats and any special skills you might have.

Every resume has four sections: Personal and General Information, Credits, Training and Education and Special Skills. Below, you’ll see examples of what kind of information is needed in each section and the proper way to format it.

And before we start, you might be thinking, “Can I make an acting resume with no experience?” Absolutely! We all started somewhere, right? This acting resume is for actors, both professional and just starting out.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Acting credits.

In this section, you’ll list all of the acting roles and acting experience you’ve had, grouping them by Theater, Film, TV, web series and student films.

TELEVISION:

Training and education.

Here, you’ll want to list any type of school, colleges classes you’ve taken. Maybe you got an award for a short film or play you were in, add that here. Basically, anything that would have helped in your acting career, let it in this section.

SPECIAL SKILLS

Here’s another example: When I was finishing up my final audition for the film, Gods and Generals, Casting Director Joy Todd and director Ron Maxwell were looking at my resume. They didn’t think I was right for the role I had come in for but they saw that I did an Irish accent and asked if I could read a few lines. I did and got the part.

Download an Acting Resume Template Here

More acting resources.

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Actor/Actress Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

Actor/Actress Resume Templates and Examples (Downloadable)

Most popular actor/actress resumes.

• Acting Coach
• Drama Teacher
• Background Actor
• Voice Actor
• Film Director
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write an Actor/Actress Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Acting Coach Resume Example

Drama Teacher Resume Example

Background Actor Resume Example

Voice Actor Resume Example

Dance Resume Example

Film Director Resume Example

Music Resume Example

Actor/Actress Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Selena Ramirez (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

A dynamic actress with five years of experience performing in high-quality musical theater productions. Adept at utilizing improvisation techniques during high-pressure performances. Achieved recognition from local critics for the role of Laurey Williams in “Oklahoma!” Received vocal training from acclaimed Broadway actress Vera Cosgrove.

Physical Attributes

• Height: 5’7”
• Weight: 135
• Eyes: Brown
• Hair: Blonde
• Vocal: Soprano

• Tony Awards Best Actress Nomination, Rent, Mimi, 2019
• Character acting
• Improvisation
• Musical theater

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama Columbia University, New York, NY September 2014 – June 2018

Allison Rosenberg (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio New York, NY 12345

An award-winning actress with seven years of experience performing in high-profile theater productions. Adept at bringing complex, emotionally scarred characters to life for audiences using the Stanislavski method. Achieved a best supporting actress Tony Award for the role of Ginny in “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.”

• Height: 5’6
• Weight: 130
• Hair: Brown

• Best supporting actress, Tony Awards, Ginny Potter, 2020
• Method acting
• Soprano vocal range
• Stanislavski method

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama Columbia University, New York, NY September 2012 – June 2016

John Bergsen (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio Los Angeles, CA 12345

An accomplished actor with over 10 years of experience performing in high-profile theater, film, and television, including “Black Mirror” and a Broadway “Hamlet” production. Achieved two best supporting actor nominations from the Screen Actors Guild for emotionally charged and dynamic performances.

• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 210
• Eyes: Hazel
• Vocal: Baritone

• SAG Awards, best supporting actor in a limited series, Black Mirror, 2017
• Tony Awards, best supporting actor, Judas, Jesus Christ Superstar, 2016

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama University of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, September 2007 – June 2011

Unlike most industries, actors and actresses are assessed for potential casting call opportunities based on their professional portfolios and headshots. The effectiveness of your agent also plays an important factor in securing auditions. Your resume functions as a supplemental document detailing all of your previous roles, theater organizations, studios, and directors.

This gives casting directors a full overview of your acting career, most powerful performances, and most prominent skill sets, from character acting and singing to improvisation techniques. We’ll provide expert tips and insights to help you craft an impactful actor/actress resume.

1. Write a compelling profile summarizing your acting qualifications

When you’re looking for an acting job, regardless of the medium, someone seeks the right person to fill that role. To grab the attention of production studios, create an engaging opening summary that highlights your strongest performances and most prestigious roles. Also, feature relevant awards to make a lasting impression on the casting director.

Actor/Actress Professional Profile - Example 1

Actor/actress professional profile - example 2, 2. add an accomplishment-driven professional experience section.

To generate auditions for acting roles, feature key performances to grab the attention of studios, theaters, and production companies. Unlike a typical resume, bullet points are unnecessary in most instances. Directors are much more interested in the roles you’ve played and the types of productions you’ve been involved with. Include this detail on your resume if you worked with a particularly prominent director.

Actor/Actress Professional Experience - Example 1

Actor/Actress Professional Experience - Example 2

3. Include relevant education, training, and awards

It’s important to list your formal education and training on your resume. Casting directors may be impressed by the program you attended. They might also be familiar with the person who provided you with vocal or acting training. Also, feature your awards prominently on your resume. Audience and critic reviews are one of the most reliable indicators of the success of your performances.

• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
• SAG Awards, best supporting actor in a limited series, “Black Mirror,” 2017
• Tony Awards, best supporting actor, Judas, “Jesus Christ Superstar,” 2016
• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Drama
• Columbia University, New York, NY September 2014 – June 2018

4. List relevant key skills and proficiencies

Unlike resumes for more traditional jobs, an actor’s resume will not be put through applicant tracking system (ATS) software. It’s almost certainly going to be first handled by a theater director or casting director for a film, TV series, or commercial. They want to see what work the actor has done in the past. It’s still beneficial to highlight key skills that directors will be looking for, including acting techniques and vocal ranges:

5. Include a headshot on your resume or separately

Although this can impact the format of your template, it is appropriate to include a headshot on an actor/actress’s resume. This would be inadvisable in standard instances due to the human resources (HR) implications, but this situation is different. Casting directors need to see what you look like to identify the role they want you to audition for.

How To Pick the Best Actor/Actress Resume Template

You have more flexibility when selecting templates for actor/actress roles in comparison to other industries. Because you won’t be featuring long, detailed bullet points, you can choose a template that you find compelling so long as the information is still well-organized on the page. One thing to avoid is the use of graphics, as they won’t add any value to your document and may distract the reader from your performance history.

Frequently Asked Questions: Actor/Actress Resume Examples and Advice

How do you align your resume with a job description -.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , acting jobs will grow 8% from 2021 to 2031. Although this level of growth is encouraging, statistics indicate there are only 7,000 new openings for actors and actresses each year. To maximize your chances of landing auditions, you’ll need to align your resume with the types of roles that casting directors are seeking to fill.

For example, if you’re seeking a part in a musical theater production on Broadway, prioritize those performances in your professional experience section. If you’re seeking an audition for a television or film role, draw attention to that aspect of your acting background in your professional profile. But if you lack the experience the casting director is looking for, emphasize your strongest and most compelling performances throughout your career.

What is the best actor/actress resume format? -

Actors and actresses use a different format style compared to most other industries. A reverse chronological approach is inapplicable here since your work experience doesn’t require a detailed explanation. In some ways, it’s similar to a functional resume, as it lacks detailed bullet points. There are key differences, however, as a functional resume format prioritizes skills, whereas an actor/actress resume is centered around your performances and awards.

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Although a cover letter is unlikely to be required for a casting call, there are rare instances where it might be worth including alongside your resume. One benefit to the cover letter is that it enables you to show your passion for acting using different language and more detail. If you’re familiar with the director’s work, mention something about a previous production and why you’re excited about the opportunity to work with them. For more insights, visit our acting cover letter guide.

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

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How to make an acting resume?

[ Click here to directly go to the complete acting resume sample ]

Composing an resume for acting is tough.

So, our actor resume writing experts at Hiration have explained their process of making those perfect, on point professional acting resumes here in this article. We have explained in detail how to write each section.

Given below is the complete actor resume sample for you to see how a professional theatre resume looks like.

• Recognized for the stellar performance in Running Horses to win International Film Genre Awards | Jan '18
• Received appreciation from International Film Critics Online Poll for best acting in Full Thorns | May '17
• Assisted the Production Manager in production tasks like camera setting , make-up, dialogue delivery and lighting
• Rendered assistance to the Production House to prepare the documentation for artists and vendors
• New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Role | Jun '06
• Golden Raspberry Awards for Best Actor in a Negative Role | Jul '05

By the end of our article on Acting Resume, we will learn about

• What is an acting resume and why it is needed?
• What are the formats you can use to craft a perfect acting resume?
• How to craft a professional expeirence section in the acting resume?
• How to compose a perfect acting resume with no experience header section?
• How to convey your educational informaiton in the acting resume
• How to craft ATS friendly skills for acting resume?
• How to write a professional summary/objective for acting resume?

... All leading to a job winning acting resume!

Further, you can opt for Hiration's Online Resume Builder for hands down resume making experience.

If you choose to make your theatre resume on your own, then this 10-step guide is here to rescue you out of all your film actor resume making problems.

Additionally, to provide you with greater clarity on actor resume making, we've attached acting resume examples and actor resume samples along the article for you to refer.

In addition to this, once you're done making your actor resume, you can get it reviewed by select industry experts at Hiration to check if its recruiter-friendly.

"Acting is behaving truthfully under imaginary circumstances." - Sanford Meisner

...But, acting resumes are all about demonstrating your acting career and skills in the most honest way possible.

The broad level areas where actors perform are movies, commercials, TV shows and plays. And whatever the chosen medium of an actor be, they need to showcase it perfectly in their theatre resume.

According to CollegeGrad.com , on an average, nearly 63,000 jobs are held by actors with many of them have had formal training in some discipline of acting. The recruitment of actors is expected to increase by 10% in the next 6 years, which is more than the expected growth rate of other professions.

The work of an actor typically requires them to work for longer hours as opposed to other professions and they also require to travel a lot. In addition to this, for some special character and parts, they need to conduct in-depth research in order to do justice to that character.

They need to learn and memorize that scripts given to them in order to deliver a smooth shot.

Due to the growing demand of actors in live performances, street plays, theme parks, etc. results in hundreds of actors applying to a limited number of vacancies.

In this article, we'll be covering the following topics:

What Is An Actor Resume And Why Do You Need It?

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A theatre resume demonstrates the proficiency of a person as an actor.

An actor resume provides the recruiter with detailed knowledge of how skillful you are as an actor.

Are you thinking why does an actor need an acting resume?

The answer is: *It'll help you get your dream role sooner.

According to work.chron.com , on average, an actor earns approximately $39 per hour, whereas actors with extensive prior work experience earn around $100 per hour.

Salaries and theatre resume have a direct connection with each other. The recruiters decide the salaries of the applicants upon seeing the number of years of work mentioned in their acting resume.

Also, you can opt for making your actor resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder for a smooth resume-making experience.

How To Write a Theatre Resume?

As difficult as it may seem to write an actor resume, it really isn't.

And if you blend our 10 Step Guide On film actor resume with our Online Resume Builder, you'll be done with your theatre resume in no time.

We've written a 'KEY TAKEAWAYS' section for you at the end of this article. Do read it for some film actor resume tricks and hacks to make your actor resume look more professional than ever.

In addition to this, Hiration's Online Resume Builder offers pre-written resume templates which are ready to use. So, go and make your theatre resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder to crack that next job you're going to apply for. The content templates are professionally made by select industry experts.

Hard to believe?

Make your actor resume on Hiration's Online Resume Builder and experience the resume making process made easy for you.

Acting Resume Format

Reverse chronological format.

In this format of resume writing, you first write the most recent job first and then date back to your previous jobs. This format implies for the professional experience section as well as for other sections like education, certification and awards and recognition sections.

To know more about this format, go and check our article on chronological resume format

Functional Format For Acting Resume

This format of resume making works best in favor of those who have gaps in their employment history or educational history.

It is a skill-based resume which highlights a person's skills and education section the most.

For more detailed information on this format, visit our article on functional resume

Combination Format For Acting Resume

Combination resume format is a blend of the reverse chronological format and the functional resume format. The skills section is written in the functional resume format, whereas the professional experience section is written in the reverse chronological format.

Anyone and everyone can use this format as it does not cater to a specific category of applicants.

To see if this format is suitable for you or not, check out our guide on combination resume

To see which format suits you the best, see our article on choosing the best resume format

Actor Resume Sections

Following are the resume sections of a theatre resume:

• Personal Information
• Profile Title
• Professional Experience
• Awards and Recognition
• Certification and Training

Writing Your Actor Resume

The acting resume is divided into four stages to make the process simpler:

• Compilation Theatre Resume
• Master Acting Resume
• First Draft Actor Resume
• Final Theatre Resume
• Compilation Stage For Your Actor Resume : In this first stage of acting resume making, all you have to do is to collect all the information pertaining to the above-mentioned theatre resume sections at one place. By doing so, when making the actor/actress resume further, you'll get all the information in one place.

Master Resume

The second stage of making an actor resume is the master resume.

In this section, you will sort the following information related to your professional experience section.

• Company Name
• Dates of Joining and Resigning/Completion of Tenure
• Designation
• Points for every professional experience section listed in terms of importance

Hiration Pro-Tip: Keep a copy of the master resume so that in the future you're able to tweak your theatre resume according to every job description of the jobs you apply for.

First Draft For Your Actor Resume

In this third stage of acting resume making, you will make your first draft of the theatre resume.

In this stage, you will make the rest of your actor/actress resume sections and write the information in these sections in the reverse chronological order. This means writing your most recent information in terms of the date first and then dating back to the previous information.

For a detailed knowledge on the reverse-chronological order visit our guide to reverse-chronological resume format .

Now, the last stage remains.

The Final Resume For An Artist

The first thing out of the three things to do in this section is to make the key skills section.

• When writing your key skills section, make sure to scan the job description to look for keywords to add in the actor resume.
• But do not write soft skills even if they are mentioned in the job description.

The second thing to do at this stage is to write the summary section .

• When making this section, write how you used your skills in your previous engagements.
• Do not write what you expect from the offered role to give you.

The third thing to do is to bold and highlight all the important words and phrases in the whole of your theatre resume except the summary and the skills section.

Actor Resume Professional Experience Section

Step 1 will be making the professional experience section.

After the compilation resume comes the master resume. And as mentioned above, in the master resume stage we sort, arrange and write the professional experience section. We make this section first because it takes the longest time to be made out of every other section.

Also, it tends to be the longest section in the whole acting resume as many people have extensive work experiences to include in a theatre resume. So, why is this section so important?

Well, this section provides the recruiter with comprehensive information regarding your work history and the level of work you've done till date. In addition to this, there is a proper format for writing this section.

This section is of prime importance in the acting resumes of those who hold extensive work history in the field of acting. Also, make sure to write the director's name and the name of your character.

The below-given format should ideally be used to write this section.

{Organization Name}

{Designation} | {Location} (city, country pin) | {Dates} (in mm/yy-mm/yy) format

{Movie Title 1} {Director} | {Character}

{Movie Title 2} {Director} | {Character}

It is very important in an actor resume to write the name of the director and the name of your character.

Let us explain this with the help of an acting resume example.

Professional Experience Section with no mention of the director and the character name.

Movie Title: Black Killers Character: Protagonist Father

Movie Title: Running Horses Character: Side Actor

Movie Title: Full Thorns Character: Side Actor

Movie Title: Rating Games Character: Negative Role Actor

Professional Experience Section with the mention of the director and the character name.

Movie Title : Black Killers Director : John Wills | Character : Protagonist Father 'Jony Jones'

Movie Title : Running Horses Director : John Wills | Character : Side Actor 'Kind Leads'

Movie Title : Full Thorns Director : Jones Timberlake | Character : Side Actor 'Kit Larson'

Movie Title : Rating Games Director : Rojer Williams | Character : Negative Role Actor: 'Nom Watts'

From the above given acting resume examples, we can see how mentioning the director's name and the name of the character has added value to the theatre resume. It is also giving in-depth information to the recruiter about the work that you've done.

Also, bolding has played a crucial role in the professional experience section. Bolding will attract the recruiter's attention directly towards what you've written.

When making this section, make sure all the information that you write is true to your knowledge. If you write something that you've never done before, but it seems a good idea to put in the actor resume then you might get in some serious trouble.

The recruiters mostly ask questions around the work that you've mentioned in the acting resume professional experience section. If you write something you haven't done then it will get extremely difficult for you to substantiate in the interview if asked a question upon that particular point.

Take a brief look at the below given acting resume sample to get more clarity on how to make your work experience section.

Acting Resume For Beginners

Now that we've told about which section experienced actors should include in their actor resume, it's time to tell you which section should beginners in this field include in their theatre resumes.

This section is of the internship. Yes. People who don't have professional experience should include the internships which they did in their actor resumes in place of the professional experience section.

The internship section is the utmost important section in the acting resumes of the beginners. The two things to do in this section is to make a bucket of each section and write the points using the cause-effect format.

Cause-Effect Point 1 Cause-Effect Point 2

Now, let us see with the help of an acting resume example how bucketing and cause-effect points add value to your theatre resume.

Internship section with no bucketing and cause-effect points.

Assisted the Production Manager in production tasks Rendered assistance to the Production House

Internship section with bucketing and cause-effect points.

Production & Documentation

Assisted the Production Manager in production tasks like camera setting , make-up, dialogue delivery and lighting Rendered assistance to the Production House to prepare the documentation for artists and vendors

From the above given beginner actor resume template of professional section, you can see how bucketing, bolding and cause-effect points have enhanced your acting resume by a great value. Doing bucketing highlight your skills whereas bolding and cause-effect points enhance and give detailed information about your workings to the recruiter.

As it is the first step in the actor resume making of the beginners, it is also Step 2 in the theatre resume making process of the experienced professionals. Internship section is what you'll make second in the master resume stage.

To get a better understanding of how to write this section, look at the below given acting resume example.

Composing Acting Resume Header

Now, that the master resume stage is over with the above-given steps, let's proceed towards the first draft resume stage. As mentioned in the starting of the article, the first draft stage will focus on the rest of the theatre resume sections except for the summary and key skills section.

So, our Step 3 now would be to compose the header of your acting resume.

You must be thinking: What is it that makes the header an important part of the actor resume?

The answer is that it differentiates your theatre resume from being confused with someone else's actor resume. How? Well, it consists of your name, that's how.

The header is supposed to be the largest text in the whole of the acting resume. The font size of your header should be between 14-16 font size. Decide it whichever suits the best according to your chosen actor resume template.

Also, make sure you give a single space between your first name and your last name. If there are inconsistencies in the name like that of multiple spaces or no space at all, then it gives an impression of being careless to the recruiter.

Hiration Pro-Tip: Do not name the theatre resume as 'Resume'. The recruiters no what kind of document they are reading when they see an actor resume. So, make sure the header is the only thing that you start your acting resume off with.

Further, there is a proper format for people who have a middle name. They should write it in the following format: 'Kylie K. Jenner'.

After writing the first initial of your name, put a full stop. Then give a single space and then write your last name.

Do not write nicknames. Only write your official name that is mentioned in your professional platforms and official documents.

Also, you can go for Hirations Online Resume Builder to make your theatre resume and get that font perfect header. Our Online Resume Builder has a pre-customized font size and font style to give you that professional looking header.

So, what are you waiting for? Go and make your acting resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder Now!

Look at the acting resume example given below to get an idea of how should an ideal header look like.

Theatre Resume Personal Information Section

Step 4 will involve writing your personal information section. This section includes all your personal information.

In this section you will write your personal phone number , personal e-mail address and your current location of residence . That's it. Not a thing more.

Personal Phone Number

There is a proper manner in which the personal phone number is written. The personal phone number will be written just below the header, on the left side.

Write the ISD code of your country before the personal phone number and then within the personal phone number give a single space after first five digits.

E-mail Address

Make sure your e-mail address is professional looking, for example: '[email protected]'. Having a proper and professional looking e-mail address is very important as the recruiter can judge you on how serious you are about little details based on the e-mail address name you choose.

The e-mail address will be written right next to the personal mobile number, at the center.

Current Location of Residence

In this section mention the city in which you are currently living. Same applies if you are living outside of your home town. You will write your current location of residence and not your home town.

The current location of residence will be written right next to the e-mail address, on the right corner. Do not write the complete address. Just write the city name and the country pin.

Hiration Pro-Tip: If you're applying for the job within the country, then only write the city and state in the current location and if you're applying overseas, then write the city and country pin.

Below given is the format to write the personal information section:

{Personal Mobile Number} | { Personal E-mail Address} | {Current Location of Residence}

See the below-given sample acting resume of the personal information section to get more clarity on how to make this section.

Again, you can opt for Hiration's Resume Reviewing Service where industry experts will review your actor resumes global standards.

Customizing Theatre Resume Title

Step 5 involves customizing the acting resume title.

The title conveys your capability and expertise in your field to the recruiter.

It is supposed to be the second largest text in your actor resume with the font size between 12-14 point size.

Take a brief look at the below given acting resume example to get greater clarity on how to make the profile title section.

You can also opt for a professional review of your theatre resume done by select industry experts of Hiration to check the accuracy of your actor resume design and content.

Theatre Resume: Education Section

Step 6 involves writing one of the most important sections of the acting resume, the education section. The information in this section includes the university/school from which you completed your education, their locations, dates of enrollment and graduating from them, degree pursued and CGPA acquired.

Use the format given below to make this section.

{Name of the school/university} | {Name of the degree} | {CGPA} | {Location} & {Dates} (in mm/yy-mm/yy)

The recruiter decides on the basis of this section whether you are eligible for the job or not.

The acting resume sample below will provide you with a better idea of how to make this section.

In addition to this, you can go for Hiration's Online Resume Builder in which these sections come pre-arranged for a smooth resume making experience.

Acting Resume: Awards And Recognition Section

Step 7 is to write the awards and recognition section.

Recruiters tend to hire those people more who have been awards or recognized for their work. In this section, write all the valuable awards and recognition that you got at work, college or school.

Do not write awards and recognition like that of 'Best Holiday Homework' and 'Best Handwriting'. Awards and recognition like these will not ad any value and at the same time will look kiddish.

Look at the actor resume sample below to get a better understanding of how to write this section.

In addition to this, you can opt for Hiration's Resume Reviewing Service to get a review of your actor resume template to see if it's relevant with the latest theatre resume template trends.

Acting Resume: Certifications Section

Step 8 is to write the certifications section.

Including certifications in your theatre resume adds more value to your acting resume. Certifications can be in fine arts, some language course, certification in psychology, etc.

You need to mention the below-given things when writing this section.

• Certification Name
• Affiliating Institution
• Dates of enrollment and completion of the course

The format to write this section is given below:

{Name of certification} | {Affiliating Institution} | {Location} | {Date} (in mm/yy)

Look at the below-given sample acting resume to get more clarity on how to write this section.

Also, you can opt for an actor resume review done by industry experts at Hiration to check your theatre resume formatting ( font, margins, order of sections, etc.

Actor Resume Key Skills Section

Step 9 includes completing the first draft stage of your theatre resume.

In this step, you will make your key skills section.

Writing the skills section at this stage give you more skills to write in the skills section. How?

Well, you will now be scanning the rest of your actor resume to look for skills that you acquire. Also, when writing your skills, do put a bullet before each skill. For example:

• Performing Arts
• Advertising Campaigns
• Campaign Performance Improvement
• Advertising & Promotions

To get a better idea on how to make the skills section, look at the below-given actor resume sample.

Additionally, you can opt for Hiration's Online Resume Builder to make your acting resume.

Our Online Resume Builder offers 20+ resume designs together with the option of modifying your key skills section and personal information section with bar graphs, pie charts, social media icons, and many more such options.

Personalizing Acting Resume Summary Section

Step 10 involves making the summary section.

In this step, you will look all through your actor resume and pick out points that are the highlight of your career. Now, rephrase these sentences and write them in the summary section while also highlighting the requirements of the recruiter.

See the below given acting resume sample to get a clearer idea on how to make this section.

In addition to this, you can opt for Hiration's Resume Reviewing Service to get a review of your professional summary .

Acting Resume Template

[ Back to Table of Content ] [ Back to Table of Content ]

Hiration's Online Resume Builder has numerous resume templates with 20+ resume designs. It also has some stunning features like:

• Save Unlimited Resume
• Live Resume Editor
• Full Rich Text Editor
• One-click Design Change

So, make your acting resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder Today!

Acting Resume Template Word Doc

Hiration's Resume Reviewing Service comes with many benefits. Our select industry experts review your acting resume to meet the below-given parameters.

• Actor Resume Length
• Relevant Key Skills
• STAR Theatre Resume Points (outlining the cause and effect in each resume point)
• Compete Consistency
• Reliability (achievements and skills backed up with relevant examples)
• Cause vs. Effect Relationship
• Quantifiable Reliability (achievements/skills backed with quantifiable values)
• Readability to Pass the 6-second test

In addition to this, by opting for the Professional Resume Reviewing Service you will be entitled to two offline acting resume template word doc.

So, get going and grab all these benefits right now by opting for Hiration's Resume Reviewing Services Today!

Acting Resume Template With Picture

If you opt for making your theatre resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder then you will get 9 stunning resume design templates with the option of putting a picture.

So, go and make your acting resume at Hiration's Online Resume Builder Now!

Acting Resume PDF

By choosing to use Hiration's Online Resume Builder to make your theatre resume, you'll get the below-given options related to acting resume PDF.

• Sharable Link
• Unlimited PDF Downloads

You'll get a sharable link of your acting resume PDF which you can mail to the recruiters while applying for jobs. The recruiters can then directly click on the link to see your acting resume PDF .

Further, you can download your acting resume as many times as you want. As your actor resume stays saved in your account, you can go back and download your acting resume unlimited times in case you lose your previous downloaded PDF.

Key Takeaways

While writing awards mention 'out of how many participants/candidates' you got that award and 'on what all parameters'.

Do not use acronyms anywhere in your theatre resume. Expand and elaborate all the acronyms.

Write dates in mm/yy-mm/yy format throughout your acting resume.

While writing the certifications section, make sure to mention the dates of enrolling and graduation from that course.

When writing the certifications section, mention who was the certifying authority.

Also, when writing your respective training, mention the dates of starting and completing that training.

The font size of your actor resume body should ideally be 10-12 point size.

To make your theatre resume stand out in terms of visual appearance and to lower the risk of getting rejected, use Hiration's Online Resume Builder to make your actor resume.

Hiration's Online Resume Builder has 20+ design templates with different colors and better font style/size combinations which will improve the overall design of your acting resume as our Online Resume Builder applies basic principles of design to integrate color and text.

Our Online Resume Builder also has industry-specific designs to suit your theatre resume along with free examples and guides to help you create your acting resume.

Go to Hiration resume builder and create a professional resume for yourself. Additionally, reach out to us at [email protected] and you can get 24/7 professional assistance with all your job & career-related queries.

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• Career Blog

Creating an Acting Resume for 2024: Sample and Writing Tips

Why an Acting Resume is Essential

As a professional actor, having a well-crafted acting resume is an essential tool in your success. An acting resume serves as a marketing tool that showcases your skills, experience, and expertise to potential employers, casting directors, agents, and producers in the entertainment industry.

Definition and Importance of an Acting Resume

An acting resume is a document that summarizes your acting skills, experience, training, and achievements. It includes your personal details, such as your name, contact information, and physical attributes, along with your professional experience, education, and other relevant information.

An acting resume is critical to your success in the entertainment industry because it serves as a first impression to potential employers. Casting directors and agents receive hundreds of submissions daily, and the acting resume helps them quickly assess whether you are a good match for their project or client.

Why Actors Need an Effective Acting Resume

An effective acting resume can help you stand out from the competition, increase your chances of getting hired for auditions, and showcase your skills and abilities effectively. Without a good resume, it’s challenging to get noticed, and potential opportunities may pass you by.

Having an impressive acting resume can also demonstrate your professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to your craft. As an actor, you are your own business, and having a professional resume is essential to show that you take your career seriously.

The Purpose of Creating an Acting Resume

The primary purpose of creating an acting resume is to market yourself as an actor to potential employers. It should highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and unique qualities that make you stand out.

An acting resume can be used in a variety of contexts, such as submitting it for auditions, showcasing it in your portfolio, or sharing it during networking events. A well-crafted resume can help you make a positive impression and increase your chances of getting hired, which is critical to your success as an actor.

An acting resume is an essential tool for actors that serves as a marketing tool and helps them stand out in a competitive industry. It’s vital to create an effective and professional resume that showcases your skills and experience, and this article will provide you with sample resumes and writing tips to help you create your own.

Basic Format of an Acting Resume

As you start your acting career, one of the most important documents you’ll need to create is your acting resume. This document is your calling card and will represent you to casting directors, agents, and others in the entertainment industry.

Format Overview

The format of your acting resume is similar to that of a traditional resume, but with a few key differences. While a traditional resume typically focuses on work experience and career achievements, an acting resume highlights your acting experience, training, and special skills.

In terms of format, there are two main options: a chronological format and a functional format. The chronological format lists your experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent work. The functional format, on the other hand, emphasizes your skills and experience in categories, such as theater, film, and commercials.

Importance of Choosing the Right Format

Choosing the right format for your acting resume is crucial. The format you choose should be easy to read, highlight your strengths, and showcase your unique qualities. At the same time, it should be appropriate for the types of roles you’re seeking.

For example, if you’re just starting out and have limited experience, a functional format may be a better choice, as it allows you to emphasize your training and skills. On the other hand, if you have a lot of experience and a strong track record, a chronological format may be more effective in showcasing your accomplishments.

Key Components of an Acting Resume

Regardless of the format you choose, your acting resume should include several key components, including:

1. Personal Information

This should include your name, contact information, and union affiliations (if applicable).

2. Acting Experience

List your acting experience, including roles, productions, and theaters. Be sure to list your most recent work first, and include any notable performances or recognition you’ve received.

3. Training and Education

Include any acting classes, workshops, or formal education related to acting, as well as any relevant skills that you have such as stage combat or dialects.

4. Special Skills

List any special skills that could be relevant to acting, such as fluency in other languages, musical abilities, or physical skills like dancing or martial arts.

5. Headshot and Demo Reel

Include a high-quality headshot as well as a link to your demo reel if you have one. A demo reel should showcase your acting abilities and give casting directors an idea of your range.

Creating a professional-looking acting resume is an important step toward building a successful career in the entertainment industry. By choosing the right format and including all the key components, you’ll be well on your way to impressing casting directors and landing the roles you want.

Creating the Proper Headshot

As an actor, your headshot can make or break your chances of receiving an audition or being cast in a role. A headshot is essentially your calling card, as it is the first thing casting directors will notice about you. Hence, it is crucial to ensure that you have the proper headshot that captures your unique personality, talent, and essence.

Importance of an Outstanding Headshot

An outstanding headshot is more than just a pretty picture; it can make a lasting impression on the casting directors and producers who hold the key to your acting career. A headshot that is compelling, professional, and encapsulates your unique selling points is necessary to get noticed in the highly competitive entertainment industry.

Moreover, an excellent headshot can also showcase your range as an actor and your ability to embody different characters. While your resume can list your training, skills, and past roles, your headshot is the first impression the casting director will have of you, and it needs to be remarkable.

Headshot Guidelines and Best Practices

The following are some guidelines and best practices to consider when creating your headshot:

• Choose a professional and experienced photographer who specializes in headshots to ensure that your pictures look sophisticated and polished.
• Wear appropriate clothing that flatters your figure and complements your skin tone. Select simple colors and avoid patterns or logos on your clothing.
• Ensure that your hair and makeup look natural and polished, as they complement your face and help bring out your best features.
• Select a background that is neutral and not too distracting, so that the focus remains on you.
• Pose naturally and try to reflect your personality through your expression and body language.

Remember that your headshot should be an accurate reflection of who you are and the roles you can convincingly play.

Working with a Professional Photographer

Working with a professional photographer who specializes in headshot photography is highly recommended. They will guide you through the process and help you create a headshot that showcases your unique personality and strengths.

A professional photographer can also offer insights into what’s currently trending in headshot photography and make suggestions on how you can stand out in a crowded field.

It is also essential to communicate with the photographer about what you’re looking for in your headshot so that the images turn out precisely as you’d like them. Make sure to discuss the outfits, hair, and makeup looks that you’d like to create, and the overall vibe you’re aiming for.

An outstanding headshot is a crucial element in your overall acting package, and it can make all the difference when it comes to landing roles. By keeping the above guidelines in mind and working with a professional photographer, you can create a headshot that highlights your abilities and unique selling points.

Crafting the Perfect Personal Information Section

When it comes to crafting an acting resume, the personal information section can often be overlooked. However, this section can be crucial for casting directors and agents to contact you for potential roles. Here are some tips on what to include and how to present this section:

What to Include in the Personal Information Section

At the very minimum, your personal information section should include your full name, phone number, email address, and location. It’s important to make sure that your name is prominent and stands out, as this will be the first thing that casting directors and agents will see.

You may also choose to include your height, weight, hair and eye color, and vocal range. These details can be important for certain roles or productions, so it’s up to you to decide whether to include them or not. However, you should always ensure that the information you include is accurate and doesn’t misrepresent you in any way.

Tips for Presenting Your Personal Information

When it comes to presenting your personal information, the key is to keep it simple and easy to read. Use a clear and legible font, and make sure that the information is formatted consistently throughout the document.

You may also choose to include a professional headshot, either within the personal information section or on a separate page. If you do include a headshot, make sure it’s high-quality and recent, as this can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived by casting directors and agents.

Ensuring that Your Personal Information is Accurate and Up-to-date

It’s important to ensure that your personal information is accurate and up-to-date, as this can impact your ability to be contacted for potential roles. Check that your phone number and email address are correct, and make sure that you update your location if you move.

You should also periodically review and update the information you include in this section. For example, if you’ve recently gone through a significant weight loss or hair color change, you may need to update your height, weight, and hair color information.

The personal information section of your acting resume can be crucial for catching the attention of casting directors and agents. By following these tips, you can ensure that you present your personal information in the best possible light, and that it accurately represents who you are as an actor.

Outlining Your Acting Experience

If you want to land an acting job, you’ll need a well-crafted acting resume. Your acting experience plays a crucial role in impressing casting directors and making them want to hire you. Here are some tips for listing your acting experience and highlighting your work in theater, film, and television:

Tips for Listing Your Acting Experience

Your acting resume should showcase your experience in the best possible light. Here are some tips to help you make it stand out:

• Start with a header that includes your name, contact information, and any professional affiliations you may have.
• Use clear, concise language to describe your experience. Avoid overly flowery or dramatic language that can be off-putting to casting directors.
• Organize your resume chronologically, starting with your most recent work first. You can group similar credits together, such as all theater work or all film work.
• Highlight your most significant or notable work first, particularly if it has garnered critical acclaim or awards.
• Quantify your experience where possible. For example, include the number of performances you’ve done or the box office numbers for a movie you were in.

Listing Your Acting Credits

Your acting credits are the most critical part of your acting resume. Here’s how to list them effectively:

• Start with the name of the production and the character you played. If it’s a well-known production, like a Broadway show or major film, you don’t need to describe it in detail.
• Include the name of the director or producers if you were directly involved with them.
• List the theater or venue where the production was performed, along with the city and state. For film and television credits, include the production company.
• Include the dates of the first and last performance, or the filming dates for TV and film projects.
• If you have a lot of credits, you can organize them by category, such as theater, film, and television.

Highlighting Your Work in Theater, Film, and Television

Actors may have experience in different areas of the entertainment industry, such as theater, film, and television. It’s essential to highlight this experience on your resume. Here’s how to do it:

• Use separate headings for theater, film, and television, followed by a list of your relevant credits.
• Include details about any awards or critical acclaim that your work has received.
• Mention any particular skills or talents you have that are relevant to the medium, such as dialects or fighting skills.
• Don’t forget to include any training or education you’ve received in your field.

Your acting resume should be a clear and precise reflection of your experience and skills. By following these tips for listing your acting experience and highlighting your work in theater, film, and television, you’ll be one step closer to landing that dream role.

Showcasing Your Training and Education

As an actor, showcasing your training and education on your resume is just as important as highlighting your skills and experience. Many casting directors and producers are interested in seeing the training and education that you have received as it gives them an idea of your level of expertise and commitment to the craft. In this section, we will discuss the guidelines for including your education and training on your resume, as well as the importance of demonstrating your qualifications.

Education Section Guidelines

Your education section should appear immediately after your resume summary or objective. Under this section, include the institutions you attended, the degree you earned or the program that you participated in, your major if applicable, and the years of attendance. Make sure to list your most recent education experience first and work in reverse chronological order.

If you are just starting in the acting industry and have not yet received formal education or training, it’s okay to leave this section blank. However, if you have any specialized training such as voice lessons, improv classes, or master classes, you may include them here. Just be sure to clearly indicate the title of the program and the name of the institution or instructor.

Training Section Guidelines

Your training section should follow your education section. Here, include any acting classes, workshops, seminars, or intensives that you have completed. You may also list any training in related areas such as dance, voice, music, or martial arts. Be sure to mention the title of the program or course, the institution, the instructor, and the dates of attendance. If you have received any awards or recognition for your training, include them as well.

Importance of Demonstrating Your Training and Education

As mentioned earlier, showcasing your training and education emphasizes your commitment to the craft and indicates that you have invested time and resources into developing your skills. It also provides information to the casting director or producer about the level of proficiency that you have acquired. A well-rounded actor who has received comprehensive training in different areas of the performing arts is likely to stand out over someone with only raw talent.

Furthermore, your training and education may also be relevant to the specific role or project that you are auditioning for. For example, if you are auditioning for a musical, demonstrating your training in voice or dance can give you an advantage over other candidates. Similarly, if you are auditioning for a period piece, demonstrating that you have knowledge of the era, the culture, or the language can improve your chances of landing the role.

Showcasing your training and education on your acting resume is an integral part of representing yourself to the industry. Remember to organize your sections in reverse chronological order, include details of your specialized training, and emphasize the importance of your qualifications in relation to the project or role. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of getting noticed and selected for future roles.

Highlighting Your Special Skills

When it comes to creating an acting resume, it is essential to highlight your unique skills that make you stand out from the crowd. This is the section where you can showcase your special abilities, such as accents, physical skills, dance styles, or even specialized training.

Here are some tips on what to include in the Special Skills section of your acting resume:

What to Include in the Special Skills Section

Languages : If you speak a foreign language, it is a valuable skill that can make you more attractive as an actor. It shows that you can bring authenticity to a role that requires speaking a different language.

Accents : Being able to perform different accents is another special skill that can be useful in theatre, film, and television. You can list down the accents you can perform, such as British, Southern, or Australian, to name a few.

Physical Skills : If you have any specialized physical skills, such as martial arts, gymnastics, or even juggling, include them in this section. It can help you stand out from other actors who don’t have these unique abilities.

Dance Styles : If you have training in a particular dance style, such as ballet, hip hop, or salsa, it can be an asset that sets you apart from other actors.

Specialized Training : If you have attended any specialized training or workshops that are relevant to acting, such as improvisation, voice acting or even stage combat, make sure to include them in this section.

Best Practices for Highlighting Your Unique Skills

The special skills section of your acting resume is an excellent opportunity to showcase your unique abilities. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when highlighting your skills:

Be Honest : Only include the skills that you genuinely possess. Don’t exaggerate your abilities as it can backfire during an audition if you can’t perform what you’ve listed on your resume.

Keep it Concise : List down your skills in bullet points, and keep it brief. You don’t want to overwhelm the casting director with too much information.

Specificity is Key : Be specific about your skills. Instead of just saying you’re proficient in a particular dance style, mention your level of training or any performances you’ve had.

Relevance is Important : Only include skills that are relevant to acting. Don’t include unrelated skills that won’t add value to your performance.

Making Your Special Skills Relevant to the Position

When applying for a role, take the time to review the job description and tailor your special skills section accordingly. Make your unique abilities relevant to the job you’re applying for.

For example, if the role requires a specific accent, highlight that accent in your special skills section.

Adding Awards and Honors

As an actor, your resume is your calling card. It’s your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements. Adding awards and honors to your acting resume can give you a competitive edge by showcasing your accomplishments and talents.

What Awards to Add

When it comes to adding awards and honors to your acting resume, it’s important to focus on the ones that are relevant to the industry. These can include:

• Awards for outstanding performance, such as Best Actor or Best Actress
• Nominations for major awards, such as the Oscars, Emmys, or Tonys
• Recognitions for outstanding achievements, such as a Lifetime Achievement Award or a Hall of Fame induction

It’s also acceptable to include awards and honors from other areas of your life that demonstrate your skills and character, such as awards for public speaking or volunteer work.

Best Practices for Adding Awards and Honors

When adding awards and honors to your acting resume, there are a few best practices to keep in mind.

• List the awards in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent award first. This highlights your most recent accomplishments and keeps your resume up-to-date.
• Be concise and specific in your descriptions. Instead of simply listing the award, provide details about why you received it and what you did to earn it.
• Only include awards that are relevant to the industry. While it’s great that you won the spelling bee in 3rd grade, it’s not relevant to your acting career.

How to Highlight Your Achievements

Adding awards and honors to your acting resume is only the first step. To truly highlight your achievements, you need to showcase them in a way that captures the attention of casting directors and producers. Here are a few tips for highlighting your achievements:

• Use action verbs to describe your accomplishments. For example, instead of simply stating that you won an award, say that you “earned” or “achieved” it.
• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible. For example, instead of saying you “starred in a play,” say that you “starred in a critically acclaimed Off-Broadway production that ran for 6 months and received rave reviews.”
• Don’t be afraid to highlight your unique achievements. If you’ve done something that sets you apart from other actors, such as working with a well-known director or collaborating with a famous musician, be sure to showcase it on your resume.

By following these tips, you can effectively highlight your achievements and give yourself a competitive edge in the acting industry. Remember, your resume is your personal brand, so make sure it showcases your skills, experience, and accomplishments in the best possible light.

Including Your Representation Information

As an actor, your representation information is crucial to your success. It’s essential to include your acting representation on your resume, as it shows industry professionals that you are serious about your career and that other reputable individuals believe in your talent.

The Importance of Listing Your Acting Representation

Listing your representation on your resume can also improve your chances of landing auditions and securing jobs. Many casting directors and agents prefer to work with talent that has professional representation, as it usually indicates a higher level of experience, skill, and legitimacy. Including the contact information of your representation can also make it easier for industry professionals to find and reach out to you.

How to Properly List Your Representation Information

The proper way to list your acting representation is to create a new section on your resume titled “Representation” or “Agent/Manager.” Under this section, include the following information:

• Agent/Manager’s Name
• Agency/Management Company Name
• Agency/Management Company Address
• Agent/Manager’s Phone Number
• Agent/Manager’s Email Address

Ensure that your representation information is up-to-date and accurate. If your representation changes, make sure to update your resume accordingly.

Tips for Finding Representation

If you’re looking to find representation, it’s important to do your research and approach the process strategically. Here are a few tips for finding representation:

• Research reputable agencies and management companies that specialize in your type of acting (i.e., theater, film, commercial, etc.).
• Attend industry events, such as showcases, workshops, and networking events, to meet agents and managers.
• Create a professional reel and headshot that showcase your talent and unique qualities.
• Build relationships with other actors, directors, and casting directors who can recommend you to their representation.
• Be persistent, but respectful, when reaching out to potential representation. Follow up if you don’t hear back, but don’t be pushy.
• Consider working with a casting website or app that can help connect you with legitimate agents and managers.

Remember that finding the right representation takes time and effort, but with persistence and a strong work ethic, you can achieve your goals as an actor.

Including your acting representation on your resume is crucial for demonstrating your professionalism and increasing your chances of securing auditions and jobs. Make sure to list your representation information accurately, and take the time to find reputable representation that believes in your talent and career.

Customizing Your Acting Resume for Each Audition

Creating a one-size-fits-all acting resume may seem like a time-saver, but it could cost you potential roles. Customizing your acting resume for every audition can help showcase your best assets and make you stand out in a sea of applicants. Here are some tips for tailoring your acting resume for each audition.

Customizing for Different Casting Directors

As a professional actor, you likely have a long list of casting directors you’ve worked with or ones who fit your niche. Consider looking up the casting director for the production you’re auditioning for and tailoring your resume to their preferences. For instance, some casting directors prefer resumes with color headshots or prefer resumes that are not stapled. Taking a few moments to research preferred resume formatting can make a difference in your chances of getting called.

Adapting for Different Acting Roles

Having a general acting resume is useful, but it’s essential to tailor your resume to the specific role you’re auditioning for. For instance, if you’re auditioning for an action film, focus on your martial arts or stunt experience. If you’re auditioning for a musical, highlight your vocal training and stage performances. Don’t shy away from changing the order of credits or creating a new resume entirely that targets a genre to highlight your relevant experience best.

Ensuring the Resume Targets the Specific Audition

It’s essential to read the audition notice before submitting your resume. Casting directors may have specific instructions for resumes, such as accentuating your improv experience or highlighting your age range. Ensure your resume includes the correct information and directly addresses the audition requirements. Highlighting any past productions of the same genre or with the same director/producer can also make your resume stand out.

Personalizing your acting resume for each audition takes time, but it shows casting directors that you’re dedicated and serious about the craft. Using the above tips to customize for the casting director’s preferences and the specific role can help you stand out in the role and increase your chances of getting called back. By investing time in a custom resume, you’re investing in your acting career’s success.

Tips for Writing a Strong Cover Letter

A cover letter is an important part of your job application, as it provides an opportunity to showcase your personality, skills, and relevant experiences. To make sure your cover letter stands out and gets noticed by potential employers, there are several essential elements to include.

Essential Elements of a Cover Letter

When writing a cover letter, make sure to include the following elements:

Header:  Include your name, address, phone number, and email address at the top of the page.

Salutation:  Address the letter to the hiring manager or recruiter by name, if possible. If not, use a generic salutation such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”

Opening:  Start your letter by introducing yourself and expressing your interest in the position.

Body:  The body of your cover letter should highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the job. Use specific examples and achievements to demonstrate how you would be an asset to the employer.

Closing:  End your letter by thanking the employer for considering your application and expressing your willingness to discuss your qualifications further.

Signature:  Use a professional sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards” and include your full name and contact information below.

Samples and Templates of Cover Letters for Actors

If you’re an actor, there are several sample and template cover letters available online that you can use as a starting point. Make sure to customize the letter to fit your specific skills and experiences, and to tailor it to the job you’re applying to.

Best Practices for Writing a Cover Letter

To write an effective cover letter, keep the following best practices in mind:

Be concise:  Keep your letter to one page or less and avoid using jargon or complex language.

Focus on the employer’s needs:  Demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with the employer’s needs and how you can contribute to the organization.

Personalize the letter:  Use specific examples and achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the position.

Proofread:  Check your letter for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and make sure it’s formatted in a clean and professional manner.

By including the essential elements, using templates and samples when applicable, and following best practices when writing, your cover letter will help you stand out in the job market and get you one step closer to your dream role. ** Editing and Polishing Your Acting Resume**

As an actor, your resume is your calling card, and you want to make sure that it represents you well. It is essential to keep your acting resume up to date by making edits and polishing it regularly. This section will discuss some of the common mistakes to avoid, tips for proofreading and editing, and the importance of checking for errors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to creating an acting resume, there are certain mistakes that could hurt your chances of landing a role. These mistakes include:

• Including a headshot that does not look professional or current.
• Failing to customize your resume to the specific job you are applying for.
• Including irrelevant or outdated information.
• Failing to include your contact information, such as your phone number or email address.
• Failing to include your union status, if applicable.

Tips for Proofreading and Editing

Proofreading and editing are crucial steps when it comes to polishing your acting resume. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

Print out a copy – Sometimes, it is easier to catch mistakes when you can review a hard copy of the document.

Read each line carefully – Go through each line of your resume and check for errors or typos.

Use spellcheck – Spellcheck is an essential tool for catching misspelled words.

Get a second opinion – Have someone else read your resume for you to get a fresh perspective and catch any errors you may have missed.

Keep it concise – Ensure that your resume is clear, concise and easy to read.

Importance of Checking for Errors

Errors on your acting resume can be detrimental to your chances of getting cast for a role. It is essential to ensure that your resume is error-free and presents you in the best possible light. Employers will appreciate the effort put into presenting a polished resume, which can help give you that competitive edge over other applicants.

To conclude, editing and polishing your acting resume is crucial in your journey to landing your dream role. By avoiding common mistakes, proofreading and editing carefully, and checking for errors, you can present yourself in the best light possible and increase your chances of getting hired.

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5 Acting Resume Examples (+ Resume Writing Guide)

Posted by Phillip Jewell on Sep 22, 2019

The ultimate guide to writing the perfect acting resume, with 5 great acting resume examples and templates.

From Hollywood to the West End

Whether you’re planning to pursue small acting roles in your local theater or box office movie roles in Los Angeles, you need to know how to write a professional acting resume to land the gig.

As an actor, your resume is your best marketing tool, together with your headshot.

It’s what shows casting directors that you’re serious, professional and capable of fulfilling the role. A professionally written resume will give you a better chance of not losing out on those callbacks for roles in the film industry.

To a degree, writing an acting resume is easier than writing a resume for other professions.

When writing an acting resume - or an acting CV - you don’t have to sell yourself or draw attention to specific achievements like you do for other industries.

However, if you want to be taken seriously as an actor or actress, it is vitally important that you follow the very specific resume writing standards that are expected in Los Angeles and the acting world in general.

In this guide, we provide you with advice on all facets of the resume writing process for the film industry.

What's included in this guide?

- What to include in your resume

- How to present your acting experiences and format your resume

- The standard formatting principles for detailing your acting credits

- Step-by-step advice on including your acting training

- Advice and guidance on the most effective headshot to go with your resume

- How to write an acting resume with no experience

- Advice on which 'special skills' to include

- Tips for distributing your resume to casting directors and acting agencies in LA and across the world

- The best length for acting resumes

- How to include special skills

- And everything in between

We have prepared 5 acting resume samples for you to use. Feel free to use these acting resume templates to provide you with a greater chance of landing acting gigs.

Acting Resume Example 1

Acting Resume Example 2

What should be included on an acting resume?

Personal information.

- Start with your name. Don’t include the word ‘resume’ at the top of the document; your name will suffice as a title. This should be your stage name, not your real name.

- Include the name of the union you are affiliated with below your name. If you are not affiliated with a union, don’t include anything here.

- Below the name of the union, insert your phone number, including the area code. You may also add your email address if you wish.

- Next, move on to your physical details. Ideally, the physical details should be included in one neat line, below your contact information. Physical details extends to height, weight, hair and eye color. You should not include any other physical information.

These details are not optional. It’s important to include all this information at the top of your resume. Some people who are new to acting don’t include physical details, such as hair color. Visual appearance is a key factor in acting.

Leaving out information that is expected on all acting resumes could have a negative impact on your search for acting gigs.

Take a look at the image below to get a visual idea of how the top of your resume should look. Notice that this example resume does not include the candidate’s age or address.

Aside from the actor's name, union title and phone number, it only includes the four pieces of information that are necessary: height, weight, hair color and eye color.

Acting Credits

Now that you have added your contact information and physical details, it’s time to delve into your acting credits.

If you’re an experienced actor, this is where you show off your career highlights, whether it be starring in box office hits in Los Angeles or local theaters shows in your hometown.

Your acting experience should be separated into three parts: film, television and theater. Of course, if you don’t have experience in one or more of these spheres, just focus on the spheres you do have experience in.

Ideally, you should prepare a different resume for each of these three branches of the acting profession. For example, if you have starred in Hollywood movies, sitcoms and West End theater performance, you should create three resumes, focusing on all three respectively.

Write your acting credits in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent role and working backwards.

If you would prefer not to use the reverse-chronological format, that's fine. Some actors prefer to list their credits in order of significance, starting with the most well-known movies or TV shows.

If you've starred in big movies in Los Angeles, but your recent roles are more low-key, it would be beneficial to start with the big Los Angeles movies.

The acting credit section doesn’t necessarily need to include your entire acting history. The amount of acting history you include will depend on your level of experience. If you’ve played multiple movie roles, you won’t need to worry about including high-school plays.

On the other hand, if you haven’t got any acting experience, it would be beneficial to include such experiences.

If your resume seems to have a lot of empty space, don’t be tempted to include other work experiences that are not related to acting. These are not relevant and will negatively impact the effectiveness of your resume.

Try to put yourself in the position of the casting director. With hundreds, or even thousands, of resumes to get through you're going to want to see resumes that are concise and relevant.

How do you present your acting credits?

As previously mentioned, this will vary slightly depending on whether you are pursuing film, television or theater roles.

Film Acting Credits

For roles in film, start by including the name of the film. Then include the type of role that you held (such as a “lead” or “supporting” role). Follow this with the name of the production company and the director’s name.

See an example of an acting resume's film credits in the image below.

Don't be tempted to add descriptions and provide further information about your acting credits, even if you think it could add value to your resume. The only details required are film title, your role, the name of the production company and the name of the director. Follow this format rigidly.

Television Acting Credits

Presenting your television credits should follow a similar format to that of film. Include the name of the television show, followed by your role, the name of the network and the name of the director.

Take a look at the example of an actor's television credits in the image below.

Theater Acting Credits

The format of your credits changes slightly when it comes to your theater experiences.

As with film and television, list the name of the show and your role/character name. Then include the theater company and the production location. It’s not necessary to include the name of the director, unless the director is a recognized leader in the theater world and drawing attention to him/her could add value to your resume.

The image below demonstrates how your theater credits should be presented in your resume.

Follow this process until you have included all of your relevant acting credits. Don’t be tempted to include specific details anything else. It’s not expected or necessary. The information included in the resume example shown on this page contains everything casting directors and acting agencies need to see.

Aside from the film, television and theater credits section, the rest of your resume will follow the same format regardless of the type of acting you are pursuing.

Now let's move onto the next section...

Acting Resume Example 3

Education and Training

Below your acting credits, including your acting training. Detail any acting classes, workshops, courses or even degrees that you have completed. You may also include any seminars you have attended or any private acting sessions you have participated in.

In many cases, agents and casting directors look through resumes for acting teachers and acting schools that they respect. For this reason, it’s a good idea to get high-quality acting training under your belt from respected professionals in the acting industry, if you haven't done so already.

If you don’t have acting experience, it would be very beneficial to complete such training and draw attention to it on your new resume.

How do you present acting training on your resume?

Unlike resumes for other professions, acting resumes have a very specific formula you should follow when listing your training.

Start by including the name of the acting teacher or the organization. Follow this with the type of acting training you completed. These might include vocal, movement, improvisation or classical acting classes. Finally, include the location.

Present the education and training details in reverse-chronological order. As previously stated, this means starting with your most recent training and working backwards. If you’re currently taking acting classes, include them too with the words ‘ongoing’ or ‘in progress’ in brackets.

Don’t feel the need to go into other training that isn’t relevant to acting. Casting directors aren’t interested in health & safety training from your previous career or your high school grades. Ensure acting is the focal point of your resume.

Below is an image that shows how your education and training section should look on your resume.

Special Skills

This section is a good chance to make your resume stand out from the crowd. Here, you can highlight your proficiencies that casting directors might be looking for and that other actors might not possess. The special skills section is the final section to include in your professional acting resume.

This is a fairly simple section, where you list specific acting skills you have acquired.

What are special skills?

Special skills are capabilities you have obtained that could be relevant to acting, in the areas of sport, languages, music and accents. These may include foreign accents, martial arts ability, singing, instrument proficiency, vocal range and languages.

If you’ve mastered an Australian accent, ensure to detail this in the special skills section. Or if you’re trained in ballet dancing, write ballet as a special skill.

These are skills that may be required for certain acting projects; including this information on your acting resume can be the difference between securing the acting gig and getting turned away.

Some special skills are more relevant to others. Accents and dialects are recognized as very useful special skills on your acting resume.

Power lifting, however, would not be.

A knowledge and capability with firearms is also desirable, as is combat training. How often do you see firearms in movies, compared to the amount of times you see characters power lifting? Recognize which special skills in your arsenal are the most relevant and include those ones first.

If you have mastered certain acting techniques, such as the Meisner Technique or the Stanislavski Technique, ensure to draw attention to those.

Other acting techniques and proficiencies that you might want to add to the special skills section include method acting, the Chekhov Acting Technique and the Lee Strasberg’s Method.

As you’re probably aware, you can greatly improve the impact your acting resume has on casting directors and acting agencies by including certain skills. If you’re an inexperienced actor with little to no experience, it’s time to get out there and acquire these skills.

Whichever skills you decide to include here, make sure you are completely proficient at performing them. You should have mastered these skills and be ready to use them at the drop of a hat.

There is a strong chance you will be asked to demonstrate the skill at some point, so if you wouldn’t feel comfortable doing so, don’t include it.

Skills included here should be potentially relevant to acting; don’t include other soft skills, such as ‘communication’ or other skills that you would not need to use in acting. For example, you might be skilled at forestry work, but it is highly unlikely that you will need to employ the skill as an actor.

Here is an example of how a special skills section should look on your resume.

How to write an acting resume if you have no experience?

If you’ve recently decided to become an actor and you have no acting experience, don’t worry. Even the best actors had no experience at some point in their lives.

You’re not signed up to agencies in Los Angeles yet and you haven’t built key connections in the movie industry, but you’ve taken the first step. And sometimes the first step is the most important one.

But how can you prepare an acting resume when you don’t have any experience?

Having no experience isn’t as big of a problem as you might think. Everyone has to start somewhere, and casting directors understand this.

However, having a poorly prepared and presented resume is a big problem.

When you have no experience, the key is to make other areas the focal point of your resume, such as your acting training, special skills or physical details.

Acting training is a fantastic second best to include on your resume. If you’re eager to establish a career in acting, you have likely completed various acting classes and workshops.

These will show casting directors or acting agencies that you're serious about acting and taking active steps to build your capabilities as an actor. The more training you can get under your belt and on your resume, the more effective your resume will be.

There is only one way to do this.

Sign up to acting classes. Search for acting workshops in your local area.

Get yourself out there and complete more training to fill out your acting resume and demonstrate your commitment to acting as a profession.

This is one of the most important aspects of resume writing for actors with no acting experience .

If you want to improve your resume even more, find the best training available. This not only enhances your acting skills, but it also gives you a better chance of impressing casting directors.

When casting directors and agencies scan through actors' resumes, one of the key things that catches their eye is training from respected acting teachers and schools. As such, it’s a great idea to try to train and learn with renowned acting teachers and schools. Having training from these recognized schools on your resume will be sure to impress.

But which acting schools and teachers would be the most impressive on your resume?

It depends on your location and the resources available to you. There are many great acting schools and teachers across the world, who have played key roles in the development of award-wining actors.

If you’re in Los Angeles, The Sanford Meisner Center has had great success throughout its history, teaching actors including Sandra Bullock and Christoph Waltz. Of course, Los Angeles also boasts a long list of other fantastic acting schools and teachers.

It’s up to you to do some research and find the one that would add the most value to you and look best on your resume.

Another way of ensuring your acting resume makes an impact is to include any ‘special skills’ that you have mastered. The ‘special skills’ section, which is explained in more detail above, gives you a chance to demonstrate specific qualities that casting directors might be looking for.

These could include accents, dialects, singing, sports and dancing. There have been many cases of actors with no experience gaining roles in high-profile movies via their special skills.

As an example, acting gigs have been snagged solely as a result of martial arts proficiency.

As a final note on writing acting resumes when you have no acting experience, you should ensure that your resume contains all the information that casting directors or agents need.

If you don't adhere to the standards that are expected when writing a resume for acting gigs, you might be fighting a losing battle.

Formatting, fonts and layout for acting resumes

Weakly formatted and presented resumes don’t generate a great deal of success in the acting industry. They scream 'amateur' and they might cause the casting director to wonder how much time you have invested in preparing your resume.

Are you eager to demonstrate your professionalism? If so, ensure you produce a high-class resume. This way, you’ll show the casting director or agent that getting that gig is important to you.

Keep the layout and presentation of your resume simple. Don’t try to improve it with fancy graphics, colors or images. This won’t have a positive impact on the reader.

Avoid uncommon fonts that make the text appear unprofessional. Instead, use easy to read fonts, such as Calibri, Times New Roman or Arial.

These are standard fonts that are commonly used in various professions. Fonts that are overly elaborate result in your document appearing amateurish, and in some cases unreadable. Additionally, ensure your fonts are always black in color while keeping the font size between 10.5 and 12.

As with colors and graphics, don’t include icons on your resume. Although these are often used in resume writing for other professions, they are not expected or necessary in the acting profession.

Your resume's margins should not be too wide or too narrow. Aim for between 2 cm (0.78 inches) and 2.5 cm (0.98 inches). Of course, the margin sizes may vary depending on the amount of content you have to include, but try to keep them at reasonable dimensions.

Spacing is also important. Use at least a line of space or 4 pt. spacing between sections for ease of reading. Avoid cramming an overload of text onto the page. If there is too much text squeezed into your resume, the key information will be difficult to locate and read.

On the other hand, ensure your document doesn't contain an excess of white space. You don't want a half a page of white space, as this draws attention to the fact that you have little information (experience) to include. The key with white space is not too much and not too little.

Furthermore, ensure the section headings stand out and are clearly defined. To do this, make the fonts larger and use the 'bold' option.

Acting resumes should be one page in length. No matter how much experience you have acquired during your career, never exceed the one-page limit. If necessary, remove content to trim down your resume.

If you already have an acting resume, apply these basic formatting and layout tips to the document and you will instantly enhance the professionalism of the resume.

If you have no acting experience, follow these formatting tips closely to ensure your resume is professional and polished.

Professional Resume Writing Tip: To ensure the three columns of information on your resume remain equally aligned, use invisible tables. To insert a table on Microsoft Word, select ‘Insert’, then click ‘Table’, and then select a table of three columns.

Then make the table invisible by highlighting the table, selecting ‘Table Design’, and then selecting ‘No Borders’. This will ensure the three columns of information on your resume are equally aligned in the neat table columns, while hiding the unattractive outline of the table.

Print your resume

Acting is one of the only professions that still prefer hard copies of resumes. This is especially true in the theater industry.

Print your resume and staple it to the back of your headshot. Don’t use paperclips; if they come off, your headshot and resume will get separated and ultimately end up in the trash.

The headshot

As an actor, your headshot is a representation of your professional brand. It communicates a great deal of information to casting directors about your appearance, age range, professionalism and socioeconomic status. Alongside your new resume, your headshot is a crucial part of your arsenal.

What should a headshot look like?

It's simple, really.

Casting directors want to see a headshot that looks like you. While it should give an impression of the characters you may play, it needs to be a photo of what you look like on your best day, an accurate representation of yourself.

An effective headshot should also give an essence of your personality. You don’t have to look great, you just have to look like you . If that includes wrinkles and grey hairs, then that’s what your headshot needs to show. Don’t retouch the image, wear costumes or change your appearance for the headshot.

Casting directors are inundated with headshots and resumes on a daily basis. As such, your headshot needs to stand out and follow the recognized industry standards. Keep it professional, ensure it is engaging, avoid low-end headshot services and make sure your eyes are the window to the soul.

The recognized industry dimensions for a headshot are 8 x 10 inches. Don’t deviate from these dimensions. As previously mentioned, adhering to established standards speaks about your professionalism and knowledge of the industry.

To make the headshot and resume fit evenly together, trim your resume down to the same dimensions as the headshot.

Distributing your resume

Now that you’ve written your resume, it’s time to get it in front of agents. Identify the agencies you would like to target - whether they be large Hollywood acting agencies or individual agents from out of town - and find out if they are accepting submissions. If they are, send off your resume in line with their submission requirements.

Despite agencies being swamped with submissions, most of them are always on the lookout for quality talent. And they will always need to acquire new actors. If they didn’t, they probably wouldn’t be able to meet the requirements of their clients.

Use your new resume to network with others professionals in the acting industry. Attend events that casting directors and writers will attend and try to engage with them. Additionally, d on’t forget to utilize social media to build your professional network.

Acting Resume Example 4

Acting Resume Example 5

If you want to improve your acting skills and become the best actor you can be, consider reading books written by renowned acting coaches.

Check out our top 10 acting books that enable you to learn from the best.

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Actor Resume: Template for Free & Tips

Playing a role and getting into character is what you’re best at as an Actor. But is your resume not making the final cut? Take advantage of our resume templates to have a much better chance of passing the audition with a talent scout or recruiter.

Actor Resume Example MSWord® Use our free Acting Resume template in Word format to ensure you get top billing when applying for a position.

Places, everyone – the best acting resume is about to take the stage!

As a skilled (or prospective) actor, your drama, dance, and performance skills are your best assets. But that doesn’t mean that creating a strong resume isn’t still an important part of landing the gigs you aspire to.

Landing your dream part, getting an agent, getting an Equity contract, or becoming part of a distinguished troupe of actors is no easy task.

And, when you add in the pressure of impressing casting directors and recruiters, it’s very useful to have an official document to represent yourself . Nothing says “I’m a professional,” like taking the time to put your talent on the page.

This ResumeGiants guide explains:

• How to create an acting resume that includes all of the information you need
• The best way to organize and format your resume
• Tips and tricks for setting your acting resume apart from the rest
• How to describe your acting experience to get any role you want

Acting Resume Sample

In the dark when it comes to what to put on a resume, where, and why? Check out this sample acting resume to get started:

[ Rebecca Hitchens ]

[Stage Actor] [601 Cherry Ln, Carlisle, NY 12212 | 207-574-8457 | [email protected]]

>> Summary <<

Talented stage actor with over 8 years of professional experience in commercial and stage acting. Team player who is passionate and driven to take on the challenges of new, demanding projects. Bringing forth a strong work ethic and a desire to bring quality entertainment to all.

>> Experience <<

Stage Actor

Jefferson Playhouse | Jefferson, NY

2017 – 2022

• Auditioned for and performed in 7 stage productions for both in-person and digital audiences.
• Increased playhouse attendance by 18% over two years via the creation of a community-selected show schedule and social media presence.
• Attended regular rehearsals to improve upon acting techniques, develop choreography, and problem-solve with other cast members.

Voice Over Actor

BoxTube Studios | Philadelphia, PA

2015 – 2017

• Acted in over 10 unique commercial gigs for distinguished clients from Kelloggs to Ford.
• Developed vocal pacing and inflection skills to accurately portray the part in each gig.

Extra Actor

Feature Film: They Saw Her Dancing | Philadelphia, PA

2014 – 2015

• Performed as an extra in a number of scenes for the short film They Saw Her Dancing.
• Worked with award-winning director Abigail Arden.
• Assisted the cast and crew to complete various tasks.

>> Education <<

Bachelor’s in Drama Studies

Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA

2015 – 2019

• Honors: Graduated magna cum laude with a 3.58 GPA

>> Certifi cates <<

• Two-Year Conservatory Degree | American Academy of Dramatic Arts
• Voice and Singing Certificate | New York Film Academy

>> Skills <<

• Soft Skills: Teamwork, attention to detail, flexibility, problem-solving, time management
• Hard Skills: Knowledge of acting techniques, voice, dance, stunt performance, improvisation

>> Languages <<

• English (native)
• Spanish (fluent)

This sample combines our tips about formatting, writing, and organizing your acting resume to be sure that you’ve truly gotten all the information you want out on the page.

Feel free to use it as a reference as you begin to develop your own ideas!

What’s the Best Resume Format for an Acting Resume?

As is the case for a theater resume , the acting resume format you’ll want to use depends on the role you’re looking to apply for.

For most, making an acting resume means creating a single page of information, including a headshot, about previous roles, experiences, and skills. 

The format choices you make to organize these details can be the difference between a show-stopping resume and one that merely gets by. 

Make sure to plan enough space to provide a potential employer with all the vital information they’ll need, including:

• Personal and contact information
• A resume summary or objective
• Your work experience and education
• Your skills
• Any additional information that shows why you’re a good fit for the job

It’s a good idea to use a respected and well-known layout, like reverse-chronological formatting , to put your most recent qualifications in the spotlight.

“Reverse chronological formatting” refers to when you list your most recent job, degree, or experience at the top of each section, followed by your second most recent, and so on.

Ahead are a few more things to keep in mind as you create an acting resume template to begin building on:

• Always choose a font style and size that’s legible, professional, and clean.
• Fonts that are messy or take up too much space can easily steal the show away from your actual qualifications. 
• For an acting resume, standard 1” margins are appropriate and the way to go.
• Single spacing is usually the best option when creating a resume.
• However, if the text on your resume is hard to read or blends together, it is possible to increase your line spacing.
• Likewise, some might find that double-spacing helps fill in gaps on a resume that isn’t very text-heavy.
• Remember that professionalism and readability are key.
• Acting resumes actually benefit, in most cases, from including a headshot and other photos.
• A headshot or resume photo shows a casting director who you are, and photos from past performances (perhaps in a portfolio) can serve to demonstrate your talent.
• When creating your acting resume template, Google Docs, Word, etc. are fine tools to use – but, when it’s time to save and send it, PDF files are the best choice .
• Unless the job description has requested otherwise, submitting a PDF means that your resume will be compatible with and look good on any device.

Sometimes, the hardest part of making an acting resume is just getting it to look nice and organized. 

That’s why we’ve created tons of resume templates , including options that work if you need a free acting resume template with photos, that can do the hard work for you. 

Save your time and energy for what really matters: scoring an interview and, eventually, the role you’re after! 

Writing an Actor/Actress Resume: Resume Summary or Resume Objective?

Your resume summary or objective functions as your “elevator pitch” and gives a casting director a well-rounded view of who you are.

It’s also the thing that will grab the attention of a potential employer and, as a result, can break or make your resume.

• A resume summary showcases your talent by explaining your past professional achievements and experiences, so it is usually best for those who are already in the field.
• A resume objective, on the flip side, focuses on what a casting director is looking for and makes it clear how your skills can help. These are best for entry-level applicants or those looking to move into acting from another field.

Regardless of which type of headline you write , you’ll want to find ways to break down your main qualifications into just a few, powerful lines. 

This can take lots of practice and patience. 

Try reading your headline to yourself to help you get an idea of how it flows, or consider creating a few different examples to choose from. 

Having a hard time coming up with a truly impactful resume summary or objective? Save writing it for the end of the resume drafting process . Writing the other sections of your resume first can make it much easier to know which points you want to emphasize.

Acting Resume Summary Example

A strong acting resume summary does just what the name says: summarizes all of the key information that a casting director or employer needs to know about you. 

The more examples and specific details you can provide, the better your summary will likely be. 

Of course, it’s still important to avoid being too wordy . The last thing you want is to create a summary that’s so dense that an employer skips over it!

So, be sure to focus on what matters most. Reading your summary aloud is a great way to get a feel for how long and nuanced it is so you can make adjustments.

To showcase how a clear, detailed resume summary can change the way a potential employer sees you, we’ve created some examples: one poor, one strong.

Take note of the things that you think work and those that don’t. Which summary makes you want to learn more about the candidate?

Experienced actor with practice in film and on stage. Talented and capable of taking on any role.

Talented stage actor with over 6 years of professional experience in film and stage acting. Collaborative and highly-driven team member prepared for challenging, demanding sets. Award-winning stage performance in Les Misérables.

How to Write a Beginner Acting Resume Objective

Even an acting resume for beginners should include a strong resume objective.

It can certainly be tricky to find ways to summarize who you are as an employee and an actor without much experience in the field, but it’s not impossible. 

In fact, resume objectives are actually really great for entry-level applicants because they focus on accomplishments and skills rather than specific experiences.

You can make things easier by focusing on creating a resume objective that’s tailored to what an employer is looking for (and what you offer in response). 

Take some time to identify keywords from the job description and find ways to emphasize, based on the experiences you do have, that you have what it takes to tick all the boxes a casting director is looking out for.

💡featured content

When writing an acting resume with no experience, consider bulking up your qualifications by including some references that can attest to your skills.

Even if these details don’t make it onto your resume itself, showing that you have connections with people who can speak to your talent can go a long way.

Experienced Actor Resume Objectives

On the flip side, if you’ve got lots of experiences to describe but have a gap in your employment, are switching to a new field, etc., a resume objective is still a great choice.

Resume objectives make it easy to show who you are , even if your work history isn’t as recent or relevant as you might like. 

As is the case when creating a beginner actor resume template, be sure to list specific accomplishments, skills, and keywords that connect your qualifications to the job in question.

New actor seeking a breakthrough role. Experienced with drama and connected with leaders in the industry.

Driven, passionate actor bringing distinguished educational and professional skills in television acting to the table. Strong reputation from a number of screen contacts for impeccable attention to detail and commitment to the craft.

How to Describe Your Acting Experience

The work history section of your resume is one of the most important; here is where you’ll list all the previous roles and the relevant experiences you’ve had. 

If you have specific roles you’d like to note, be sure to include details like the production name, the name of the role, the location, year, etc.

It’s typically best to list your most recent experiences near the top of this section, but it’s also okay to prioritize the most relevant roles if it makes sense for the job you’re applying to. 

Be sure to use power verbs and other strong language to describe your experiences in a way that’s engaging. You only have a minute or so to catch the attention of and impress a potential employer, so make it count!

Power verbs are those that detail not just that a task was performed, but how . If you want to describe your experience working with others, for example, works like “collaborated” are stronger than “worked with” since they provide a more purposeful and positive description.

Acting Resume Experience Examples

Here are some examples that demonstrate h ow to make your experience stand out from the crowd: specific and powerful language, detailed achievements, and attention to details from the job description.

Stage Actor The Carter Playhouse | Philadelphia, PA 2020 – 2021

• Continuously auditioned for and participated in regular productions. 
• Created a social media account to boost attendance. 
• Participated in regular rehearsals to practice techniques and skills.
• Auditioned for and performed in over 10 individual productions for both in-person and streamed performances.
• Increased playhouse attendance by 15% over one year by engaging with the local community via social media.
• Attended regular rehearsals to refine acting techniques, practice choreography, and communicate with other cast members.

Acting Resume Experience Section with No Experience

How do you go about writing an experience section when you have no actual experience to turn to? 

By thinking outside the box. Even if you haven’t spent a lot of (or any) time acting, you can focus on the knowledge that you do have and find ways to connect it to the field. 

If you’re looking to draft up an acting resume template with no experience , ask yourself what details – whether they come from a past job, schooling, or even your personal life – have led you to have an interest in the field in the first place.

Maybe you spent a lot of time involved in local and community theater during your childhood and developed a passion for the art. Or perhaps you really enjoy performing and have learned so through your position as a summer camp counselor. 

Whatever the case may be, use your creativity to find ways to make your strengths work to your advantage. 

And, remember that some work experience is better than none, even if it’s not the most directly-related job. 

Take a look at the following acting resume example for beginners to get a feel for how you can make your own experiences pop:

Teacher’s Assistant Shakespeare Acting Camp | Pittsburgh, PA 2019 – 2020

• Worked as an assistant to a teacher responsible for acting and vocal training.
• Created a social media presence, leading to a spike in camp visitors.
• Assisted in the instruction of 30+ students, including acting and vocal training at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. 
• Collaborated with camp instructors to create unique educational programming. 
• Drove a 15% increase in camp enrollment and attendance through the development of a social media presence.

Is Your Education Section Stealing the Show?

Many actors begin their work in the field without any sort of formal degree, but regardless of how much education you have, it’s important to recognize that your education section is a great tool for showing your dedication to theater. 

If you do have a degree or have spent time in post-secondary educational training, be sure to include details about this experience on your resume, especially if you attended a reputable program.

Those who hold degrees higher than a bachelor’s should omit details from older experience (i.e. high school) if necessary.

Likewise, degrees or training that are still in progress can be included; prioritizing your most recent, and therefore most relevant, credentials is key.

Here are some tips for things to mention as you break down your education on your resume:

• Describe relevant coursework . This is a great chance to show casting directors who you’ve worked with or what specific areas you’ve studied.
• Talk about major achievements. If you won any awards, earned any distinctions or honors, graduated with a high GPA, etc., be sure to mention these points.

Note any significant involvements. Being a part of a local community theater, student organization, etc. related to your field shows dedication but also showcases your skill set.

In your education section, be sure to focus on finding ways to connect the achievements and skills you’ve gained to the job description. To do that and avoid adding unnecessary details, ask yourself how the points you’re listing make you the best fit for the job, and make sure this idea is clear on your resume.

Acting Resume Education Section Examples

When listing your educational experience, make sure to mention only what adds to your resume.

Help your acting resume’s education section reach the spotlight by noting significant achievements and honors, and scrap unnecessary details that create clutter.

Theater Degree  Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA 2015 – 2019

• Took several acting courses and received a GPA of 3.64.

Bachelor’s in Drama Studies Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA 2015 – 2019

• Honors: Graduated magna cum laude with a 3.64 GPA

Skills for an Acting Resume

The skills section of your resume is an ideal place to communicate more of your strengths and abilities in a clear, easy-to-understand format. 

It’s also a great time to fill in any gaps that you may feel exist elsewhere on your resume or take advantage of keywords and big ideas mentioned in the job description. 

If you’re interested in applying for a role that involves lots of action sequences, for instance, mentioning that you’re skilled in combat and stunt work helps you paint yourself as the best fit for the job.

The best skill sections make use of both hard skills and soft skills.

Hard skills are those learned on the job and specific to a particular niche, while soft skills are more general and apply to different types of work. 

Things like communication skills , acting training, and more are all relevant details to include. 

Below are some more examples of special skills for acting resumes that you might want to incorporate into your own. We suggest choosing about 5 to 10 skills for a resume.

Soft Skills

• Attention to detail
• Communication
• Active listening
• Collaboration
• Flexibility
• Persistence
• Receptive to constructive criticism
• Time management
• Adaptability

Hard Skills

• Knowledge of acting techniques and practices
• Script reading 
• Vocal training
• Physical stamina and strength
• Stunt performance
• Improvisation
• Memorization

How to Add Other Sections for an Effective Acting Resume

While a good acting resume covers the bases we’ve just explored, the best acting resume is one that steals the show from the rest.

“Other” sections on a professional acting resume are a great opportunity to take yours to the next level.

These sections can include details about training, certifications and awards, and more. 

They give you a chance to beef up your resume and talk about things that might not have made their way into other sections.

Make sure only to choose “other” sections that make sense for the role or job you want. Steer clear from talking about experiences that aren’t very relevant or don’t add to your resume.

Actor/Actress Resume Sample “Other” Sections

What your “other” sections look like can vary a bit, but for most looking to create a resume for acting, special skills and experiences that demonstrate not just why you’re a good actor, but also a good employee overall are key. 

The same rules about keeping things clear, concise, and on-topic apply here, but don’t be afraid to be creative when you choose what to include and how to connect it to the job.

Take a look at these “other” sections from an acting resume example to get a feel for how you can create some of your own:

Certificates

• Conservatory Degree
• Musical Theatre Certificate – New York

Certifications

• Musical Theatre Certificate | New York Film Academy

Strong “other” sections can include things like volunteer experiences, community service, personal hobbies or skills, and more. 

But, for an acting resume, we recommend the following:

Certifications and Training

It’s a good idea to mention any certificates or completed training you have under your belt, as well as the source they came from.

Include only coursework and programs that are from reputable, accredited schools.

Awards are great, but what’s even greater is being able to use them to show what you know.

For an acting resume, though, it’s sometimes best to list awards under the specific roles or job positions they were granted for. 

However, if you have a lot of awards to list or find that your experience section gets too cluttered, creating an award-focused “other” section may be the way to go.

Make sure to list the name of the award, the party responsible for giving it out, and what you won it for. 

Key Takeaway

Even if you’re the best actor in the world, having a killer resume to show for it can be a real headache. 

Luckily, creating the actor or actress resume that you need to showcase your skills is a role that you’re now equipped to take on. 

In this guide, we’ve discussed:

• How to break down your acting education and professional experiences to show you’re a good fit
• The best way to organize and format your actor resume template, words in each section, photos, and more
• How to include other details to bulk up your resume
• Writing techniques to help your resume stand out from the rest 

We hope that these tips and tricks have been useful and will carry you through an audition and to the stage.

If you’re still struggling to make your resume reflect your experiences or need some guidance, our easy-to-use acting resume builder does the hard work of planning and organizing for you. 

Be sure to take advantage of this tool, so you can create a finished product worthy of any award!

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Actor resume examples & templates

When you work in a field as niche as acting, you may be wondering where to start when it comes to writing a resume that lands you the role you've always dreamed of. You may even be asking yourself "Do actors need a resume?"

The answer is an enthusiastic Yes!, although a resume for an actor will look a bit different from any traditional resume you've seen. Luckily, Resume.io is here to help. We've created 300+ resume examples for every field and stage of your career. This guide, along with our actor resume sample, will show you how to:

• Recognize the key differences between actor resumes and other resume samples
• Choose the right format for an actor resume
• Create a summary that captures your key roles and qualities
• Format your resume to stand out among the hundreds of applications casting directors receive

In 2019, there were about 70,000 positions as actors in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics . The field is projected to grow by 3 percent over the coming decade – about average for all occupations. While local theaters suffering from budget cuts may have to reduce the number of actors hired, the rise of on-demand streaming has created a need for new content and actors to fill those roles.

What does an actor do?

Actors work to portray different characters with the use of movement, language, and emotion. Actors may work for one single performance company, or more typically, take on roles with many different employers. Actors study assigned characters, and do their best to accurately portray them in a performance. They attend rehearsals, memorize lines, and collaborate with other acting professionals to make performances possible. Actors utilize acting techniques and a variety of special skills. An ideal candidate has professional training in one or more acting methods, and brings forth professional experience working as an actor.

Actors often work with other film roles. Check out our costume designer resume example , cinematographer resume example and visual artist resume example for more inspiration.

How to write an actor resume

Here's the typical format you've probably seen on many a resume sample:

• The resume header
• The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
• The employment history section
• The resume skills section
• The education section

While your actor resume will need to contain many of the same sections, you'll likely want to call the "employment history" section something like "credits." That's because your credits are essential to showing a casting director why you're the right fit for them. These common section titles also help the casting director find specific information they are looking for.

An actor resume should clearly demonstrate a candidate’s ability to portray different characters in performances. Your resume should call attention to your understanding of different acting methodologies and techniques, as well as your experience taking on different roles. Your resume should also highlight your ability to work well and collaborate with others, as this is a large part of acting. Creating an impressive skill section is an important part of creating a winning actor resume. Including impressive skills like strong communication skills, speaking in dialects, and any specific acting techniques you utilize such as Meisner technique. As an actor you want to stand out and show an employer why your special skills will benefit a potential acting role. You should also highlight your ability to memorize lines and be punctual and reliable. 

Choosing the best resume format for actors

Actors with any credits at all should consider the standard resume format that includes a "credits" section. List your previous roles in reverse chronological order if you prefer, but never include the dates you worked on them. This is the industry standard for actors even if it's not typical advice for other types of resume samples. 

Customization is key when creating an actor resume sample because it allows you to prove your interest in the role and show how much related experience you have. If you've worked in multiple types of performances (i.e. television, movies, theater...), you'll want to group your roles by these categories. When you have enough experience in one particular category, you may even want to create a separate resume just for that.

Resume summary example

Your resume summary should give the casting director a well-rounded impression of who you are, your most impressive accomplishments and your strengths without being weighed down by all the details. The summary should encourage the casting director to read the rest of your resume to hear more about your credits. You may also want to mention any special skills or education in your summary, especially if it's highly relevant to the role. Make sure to use action verbs and exciting language to show your passion for acting. Numbers and specific details can also help your summary stand out in the casting director's mind. See the summary from our actor resume example below.

Passionate, experienced, and formally trained actor. Bringing forth enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and an unrelenting desire to entertain. Committed to fostering strong relationships with fellow actors, conducive to creating magical performances. Experienced in the Meisner technique, different dialects, and utilizing an assortment of special skills to effectively portray different characters.

If you're a union member, be sure to put the abbreviations like SAG-AFTRA or Equity/AEA in your summary so that the casting member is aware from the start.

Employment history sample

While the employment history section is a standard feature of many other resume samples, actors will want to call this section "Credits." Here is where you'll list all previous roles, often divided into categories like "Theater" or "Film." Make sure to include the production name, role name and the location performed (year is optional.) You can choose to list your roles in reverse chronological order with the most recent first, or you can move up credits that were most relevant to the position you're looking for in order to ensure that the casting director sees your related experience right away. You can list your acting roles, without job descriptions, as typically actors take on various roles in a short period of time. Focus on being neat and orderly. Here's the employment history or "credits" section from our resume example.

• Stage Actor at Willmington Playhouse (2018)
• Voice Over Actor at Jetcon Studios (2015)
• Extra Actor at Feature Film, The Great Inspiration (2015)
• Stage Actor at The Ivoryton Playhouse (2012)

Actor resume education example

While most actors enter the field without completing a formal degree, workshops, courses or degrees-in-progress can go a long way to prove your dedication to the field. This section can also be used to show a casting director who you may have trained with. Make sure to highlight any reputable schools or programs here as well as in your summary. Any honors or distinctions, guild or union memberships should be noted here as well. If you hold a degree higher than a bachelors degree, you may leave out your high school. Degrees in progress can also be mentioned along with their anticipated graduation dates and your GPA if higher than a 3.0. See the education section from our actor resume example below.

• 2004-2008 SUNY Purchase, Bachelor of Drama Studies Purchase, NY
• 2005 Alvin Alley American Dance Theater, Ballroom Dancing NY, NY
• 1997-2001 Hartsdale High School, High School Diploma Hartsdale, NY

CV skills example

The skills section is a great place to communicate your strengths due to its blunt, bullet-point nature. It's a good idea to read the job description and take note of any special abilities needed for the role. A kung-fu action movie? Don't forget to mention your combat skills. A ballet set in space will need you to highlight a knowledge of dance. If you have other relevant experience that might be of interest to the casting manager, such as work as a screenwriter or stage manager , you can briefly mention it here. See the skills section from our actor resume example below.

• Voice Trained
• Stage Combat Skills
• Stanislavski’s Acting Method
• Excellent Communication Skills
• Modern Dance
• Collaboration Skills

Resume layout and design

As an actor, you know presentation is important – in fact it's your whole job! It comes as no surprise, then, that the layout and design of your resume format say a lot about the type of actor you are. While many actors make the mistake of thinking flashier is better, a few well-placed design elements can help a casting director take note of your resume without coming across as eccentric or unprofessional.

If you're looking for help getting spicing up your resume layout, check out our collection of creative resume templates which give you a jumping off point by allowing you to customize the style to your needs.

• Create an attractive header that highlights your name and contact information so the casting manager can schedule a callback
• Include your professional headshot and reel when sending your resume
• Keep a balance of white space to text to avoid overloading the reader with information.
• Include roles that are more than 10 years old or that you performed as a child, except in special circumstances.
• Create a resume longer than one page.
• Go overboard with color or flashy design elements.

Key takeaways for an actor resume

• Actors need resumes just like any other professionals, however the structure of their resumes can change depending on their experience and the role.
• Your "credits" section will be at the heart of your resume so take care to organize it properly and include only the most essential information.
• Make sure to include your union affiliation (if you have one) along with any prestigious schools or programs you've attended in your summary.
• Tailor your skills section to the exact needs of the performance and highlight any transferrable skills if necessary.
• Create an eye-catching layout that's professional yet simple to increase your chances of standing out in this crowded industry.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

Actor Resumes & Writing Guide

When looking for your next/ first acting job, checking out what a proper Actor Resume should look like is a clever move! So, take your seats because everything you need to create the perfect resume is about to hit the stage!

We're not looking to burst any bubbles here, but if you think all you need to land a part are things like great drama training, beauty, and a savage fitness routine, you're wrong.

Carry on reading because we have everything you need below to land your dream role with our Guideline on how to create an Actor Resume.

What you can read in this article

20 Actor Resume Examples

(Free sample downloads are at the bottom of this page)

Actor Resume Writing Guide

Resume sections.

• Contact information
• Career Objective & summary
• Employment History
• Achievements
• Skill Section
• Certification & Licensing
• Extras: Languages/Awards/Publications/Volunteering/hobbies
• > Professional information

1. Contact information

• First Name and Last Name
• Physical Address
• LinkedIn Profile / Portfolio Link

What to Highlight in an Actor Resume

Let's be real. This industry is cutthroat. It's not easy landing a role, and you don't get to Morgan Freeman level overnight. Your resume is much like a film treatment. If your resume is boring, the recruiter will drop you like a squat. Get it right, and one day you may just start a speech with “I'd like to thank…” holding an Oscar.

This kind of resume is a little different from your usual resume. It focuses on those trying to land a job in television, film, theater, or other acting media, so it typically has your headshot, and everything must be one page. Even more crucial than your face, though, is that your resume must show how serious you are about this job.

If your resume has a crappy format , you won't be taken seriously and dropped in the “no” pile. We suggest the reverse-chronological format, as it is respected and shows your most recent info in the best way.

Only ever use clear, simple fonts and keep your writing concise.

Your resume should be the same size as your headshot, which is about 8 inches by 10. This is crucial if you plan to audition for roles in the big markets. If your headshot doesn't fit the industry format, you may as well wear a shirt saying, “just left the farm.” Photographers in the fancy markets generally stay on top of what's current in this regard, so it's best to ask around to see what's trending now. You must be sure what you do is what recruiters expect to see.  

And we mean, like really sure. But, because you only get one chance at a first impression, don't use a random photographer, please! You'll be seen as a greenhorn right off the bat.

Adding a Headshot to an Acting Resume:

If you want it to look professional, spend a little extra cash having it printed back-to-back. That way, the corners won't peel off, just like when you used glue in your junior school days. Also, DO NOT use a paperclip! They will get separated.

* Pro Tip : Should you choose to print the resume behind the headshot, print in smaller quantities to avoid throwing away unnecessary headshots when you must update the resume.

As your experience increases, take out any amateur entries. Professional credits always go first, obviously, followed by educational info and then community theater info.   

* Another Pro Tip : Have your resume double-checked for any spelling/ grammar errors. You could have the best resume in the world, but if there's a grammar error, it doesn't matter.

Lastly, save the resume as a PDF to ensure it is compatible with every device.

2. Career Summary & Objectives

If done right, this section may be the difference between an interview and nothing at all. It gives the recruiter an idea of who you are, your proficiencies, and if your resume is worth pursuing further.

Jot down everything you're good at regarding your career/ skills. This is essentially a 3-5 sentence summary of your entire resume. It must correspond to the job advert, be punchy and eye-grabbing.

But how do you know which to write? A summary or objective?

A summary provides proof of your experiences and that you're ready for the big break in your career. Basically, if you have loads of experience, write a summary. An objective shows your commitment, ambition, and passion. This is ideal for someone with little/ no experience.

Actor Summary 1

“ Gifted child actor with over four years of professional experience in stage, Film, and commercial acting. Highly spirited and cooperative team player used to the most demanding sets, including Game of Thrones . Award-winning theater performances in Matilda and Hamilton. “

Actor Summary 2

“  Impassioned actor combining recognized BFA education and considerable professional work in television and stage acting. Supported by a network of screen and stage contacts, with a reputation for artistic veracity. “

Actor Summary 3

“ Ardent musical actor featuring in several Broadway productions. Award-winning theater performances in Stephen Oremus's Wicked and John Smith's Ophelia . Familiar with the demanding stage sets and supported by a network of stage contacts. Recognized for artistic veracity and classic soprano. “

Actor Summary 4

“ The hard-working actor with 6+ years experience in productions like Game of Thrones and Stranger Things . Looking to portray Shanira in The Walking Dead . Has broad theater experience in productions such as Native Son and special skills in singing, dance, and screenwriting. “

3. Employment History

Acting needs you to adapt your skills to the demands of the role. Providing your acting experience history is like that too.  

Categorize your types of acting experience. For example, if you're auditioning for a theater play, give all your theater experience first. Don't stress about chronological order here.

 For every category, put your best acting credits first up. Credit dates aren't usually included, so leave them off.

  This is how to put your acting credits in an audition resume:

 HAMLET Laertes Gotham Film Festival (John Snow, Director). New York, NY.

 For those of you who are new to this, no recruiter cares if you helped the lighting crew or have good team skills. So don't bother providing those details.

 The accepted format of the industry is to utilize columns when listing the title of the play, the character's name (the role you played), theater company, and director. If it was outside your current state, provide the details of the state it was in.  

 Should you have little acting experience, panic, not a young grasshopper. You can list scene work from your acting classes. For example:

 HAMILTON    Angelica Rambo    Drama Workshop (dir. Sylvester Stallone)

Suppose you haven't reached the level of car chase scenes or punchy series yet. No stress. Just provide scene work from your acting classes.

Scenes from SEINFELD lead, advanced acting for film class (dir. Susie Rose).

If you have worked together with a recognized actor/ actress, include their name after the title. Example:

THE BEST EXOTIC MARIGOLD HOTEL (w/ Judi Dench) supporting Blueprint Pictures Inc. (dir. John Madden). Absolute classic, by the way. 

As your experience levels increase and your progress, you must make several acting resumes that target specific industries and role types.

An actor/ actress with little experience will probably have to cover your credits in one category, maybe theater. Those with more experience will need to split “theater” into subcategories:

• Off-Broadway
• Shakespeare
• Regional Theatre

It's the same for Film. Actors/ actresses with little experience might only add Film as a singular category, but those with more experience may split their credits into:

• Feature Film
• T.V. Series
• Documentary
• T.V. Movies

Lastly, remember the rule of honor. Listing the name of the character you played isn't always necessary. You can, instead, list the type of role. See the list below for examples.

Speaking Roles to be Included in your Professional Acting Resume:

• Lead: female/ male, protagonist/ antagonist, most significant role in the show/ movie.
• Principal: with recurrent scenes opposite lead to development storyline.
• Supporting or Day Player: normally limited to a few lines only.
• The Voice-Over Artist: unseen individual doing the

Non-Speaking Roles to be Included in your Professional Acting Resume:

• Featured: non-speaking, lending believability to the scene (bartender, driver, SWAT team, etc.)
• Extra: usually used to enliven a scene (office worker, pedestrians, audience member, etc.)
• Stunt Performer: the professional actor who performs stunts.
• Stand-In: similar physical assets of the actor, taking the actor's place during the drawn-out setup of the scene.
• Body Double: typically, body doubles are required for scenes needing nudity or depicting physical fitness.
• Stunt Double: professional actor who only takes the part of another actor when stunts must be done.

* Pro Tip: Think about removing the high school and community theater credits after starting an undergrad program. After you've had a few years of professional work, take college credits off your resume.

Still a bit stuck? – use this stock standard format

Professional Actor with Top Media Studios

( Jan 2021 – Current )

Toured the Canada, United States, Mexico, Japan, India, and the High Seas, entertaining a wide variety of audiences with acting, singing, dancing, audience participation, and improvisational skills

• Dance Lead: Oversaw dress rehearsals, taught new employees their job duties, maintained the overall quality of the show by assessing performances, taking notes, and distributing them to the stage actors.
• Participated in post-show talk-backs for educational purposes
• Assisted in organizing, marketing, and public relations for benefits raising money for Broadway Cares

Junior Actor with New Entertainment Inc

( Dec 2018 – Dec 2020 )

Performed in several productions in New York, Chicago, Miami, Las Vegas, and regionally.

• Member of Actors' Diversity Association, the union of professional stage actors.
• Founded and sang with award-winning acappella group “Chicago Singing Exchange.”
• Directed recording and production of all CDs and marketing materials.
• Managed sales and other business activities for the group.

Job Descriptions Examples

Below are several general duties a recruiter would expect to see in your resume, regardless of your experience and special skills. Use these to craft your job description section, or at least as a guideline.

• Responding to requirements and starts educational theatre programs participation in applicable school, internal, and community activities. Securing bookings and maintaining scheduling of the touring programs calendar.
• Serving as a facilitator and actor in several programs and several roles. Facilitating workshops.
• Working independently and maintaining responsibility for communications and project deadlines.
• Incredible character acting skills.
• Exploring and developing new themes, ideas, and characters within theatrical performances under the direction of the Performance Manager.
• Attending workshops to develop new ideas and themes.
• Ensuring you perform as specified by the script and that it is sanctioned by the Performance Supervisor if there is any variation.

4. Accomplishments

This section is all about marketing yourself. Brandishing your accomplishments in their own section is critical to set you apart from the competition. You must show the recruiter what you've achieved, not the duties you've done in past roles.

The cherry on top for this section is making sure you quantify your accomplishments. You must provide numerical values to prove your claims. Quantification has been proven to increase the probabilities of landing interviews.

Basically, the idea is to think of things you have or be a part of that make you proud and translate that into a punchy sentence with numbers/ values to back it up. Of course, you must also add awards. The thing is, some awards mean more than others, so how do you know which ones to add? 

Stay clear from awards driven by social media where actors/ actresses ask for votes from friends and family. That's some backwater award right there, especially if you're planning to enter the big leagues. They don't care about those.  

Include the awards where voters are peers of the industry evaluated for professional associated experience and qualifications.

Below is a list of acceptable U.S. Acting Awards on an Actor's Resume:

• Academy Award
• Golden Globe
• Outer Critics Circle
• Drama League
• Lucille Lortel
• Grammy (only for a spoken/ solo recorded performance of a role)

Below is a list of acceptable Regional Acting Awards to be included in an Actor Resume:

• Ovation (Los Angeles)
• Joseph Jefferson (Chicago)
• Helen Hayes (Wash, DC.)
• Carbonell (Florida)
• Elliot Norton (Boston)
• Barrymore (Philadelphia)
• Ivey Awards (Minneapolis- St. Paul)
• IRNE (New England/ Boston)
• Kevin Klein (St. Louis)

If it's a banger of an award, make sure to put it straight under its related credit in italics to ensure the recruiter doesn't miss it.

An example would look something like this:

• Played the lead role in (insert movie/ play/ tv role here), which levelled $256M at the box office in 2016, leading to being awarded a Golden Globe for best main actress.
• Contributed to 8 Films, 5 Commercials, various plays ranging from Paredy to Comedy, a web Youtube series, and hosted a reality television show.
• Awarded with Official Selection Prize in The Atlanta, [company name]
• Nominated Best Actor in Cannes Film Festival 2010
• Rated IPN's #3 Best Fan Film 2009

5. Education Section

“But bro, wait. I'm an actor/ actress. I don't actually need formal education, surely”. Fam, you are wrong.

It's essential to include your formal education and training in your resume. It gives you a little more oomph to your resume to stand out, especially if you don't have much to offer in terms of experience.

New actors, we are looking at you people!

So, begin your education section with the essentials:

• Years studying
• College Name and Location

Dates only really need to be mentioned in this section. Follow them with details of your acting education. This section also shows your willingness to engage and your passion for what you do.

But should you not have any formal education, fret not. Just add:

• Acting-related workshops
• Masterclasses
• Ongoing studio classes
• Private coaching obtained outside a university setting

If you have training in related fields like singing, music, dancing, stunts, martial arts, etc., then add them! Include any formal training at acting-related colleges.

* Pro Tip : To make recruiters sit up and notice, throw some names around. Suppose you went to any recognized teachers, studios, or coaches, including the names. Also, mention the time frame you spent training in a certain area, discipline, or technique.  

Examples below :

2011- 2013 BFA in Cinema and Television Arts. Columbia College.  

• Semester in L.A., multidisciplinary Program. Praised for acting skills.
• Excelled in acting and directing coursework.
• Held leading role in 2 school theatre productions.

2014- 2016 Bachelor of Arts, Theater, and Acting. The University of California, San Diego, California. GPA of 3.7.

2015- 2019 High School Diploma . West Linn High School. West Linn, Oregon. GPA of 3.4.

6. Actor Resume Skills

This section doesn't change much from other professions. You have certain important technical competencies , but you mustn't forget your soft skills and interpersonal traits.

To be noticed, you must beat the Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and screening bots. This is because they recognize specific keywords and phrases in your resume that relates directly to the job you're applying to. That's why it's important to use the same words from the job ad in your resume when listing skills.  

This industry is all about standing out from the crowd, especially if you're a little light on the experience side. Check the job advert for the skills they want, and then list your main attributes that are in line with these skills. You may categorize your skills like this:

Industry-specific skills

Soft skills

Special skills

7. Qualifications & Certifications associated with Actors

Optional Extras for Actors

At this level, you must understand all obligations that accompany the role you want. You may be experienced due to past roles, but you must be aware of all nuances that accompany different roles and levels of acting.

Honesty is your best friend here. Recruiters seldom get you to prove all the skills you list but are aware of listing many weird and wonderful things you cannot actually pull off.

And we don't mean you must simply list hobbies. Things like dialects and accents are risky but great ones to have on the extras list. Please don't mention them unless you've had formal training though, watching all Harry Potter movies doesn't make you an expert in the British accent.

Check out the role specifications, including the most essential in a special section in the resume. You must prove you fit this role tighter than Spiderman's spandex.

Professional information for Actors

Sectors:  Online Media, Advertising, Media, Promotions, Marketing, Broadcasting, Film, Television, Entertainment Career Type:  Professional, Networking, Campaign Management, Advertising, Analytics, Copywriting, Blogging, Vlogging, SEO, SEM Person type:   Impersonator, Creator, Debater, Persuader, Marketer, Promoter, Influencer, Networker, Communicator, Negotiator, Analyzer, Facilitator, Story Teller, Scheduler. Education levels: Bachelor level to Masters' Degree, Post-School Certifications Salary indication:  Average salary varies depending on film type and reputation Labor market : Expected growth of 3% between 2019 – 2029 ( BLS ) Organizations : Media, Production, Broadcasting, Education and Entertainment Enterprises

Download Actor Resume Templates

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Home / Resume Examples / Acting Resume Sample

Acting Resume Sample and Tips from HR Pros

Applying for a new job is never easy. However, landing a coveted role in a movie, ad or music video may be an even more challenging task.

According to money.usnews.com actors made a median salary of $43,760 in 2020. The best-paid 25 percent made $60,760 that year, while the lowest-paid 25 percent made $28,080.

To get the job you want, you will first need an effective resume and cover letter. In this article, we will look into how to write an acting resume that may just get you the role you want.

Here’s what we will look into.

• What an acting resume is and why you need it
• How to structure an actor resume that highlights all the right points
• Tips and examples on how to list your skills and achievements
• An acting resume example that you can use as the base for your application and more.

If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to write an effective cover letter, check out our article on Acting Cover Letter Example and Advice from HR Pros .

Let’s get started.

What is an acting resume?

An actor resume, true to its name, is a resume for actors. You will need it if you want to apply for a role in film, television, theater or other acting media.

An acting resume typically needs to fit in a single sheet of paper and must also include a headshot.

You will use your active resume to show casting directors that you are the right person for the job, have the relevant skills and possibly even experience of acting in similar projects.

What to include in an actor resume?

There are several sections that you should typically have on your actor resume. These are:

Your contact details

• Your agent’s contact details (if you have one)

Basic information and headshot thumbnail

Resume summary, acting credits.

• Formal education (if you have a relevant degree)
• Workshops and training you’ve taken

Special skills

• References from previous acting work, testimonials, reviews, etc.
• Call to action

Now, let’s unpack each of these sections with a bit more detail.

Here everything is pretty much straightforward. Include your full name and the contact information at which you can be reached. There is no need to include your full address. Typically, you will need to just mention your email and phone number.

Your agent’s contact details

If you are working with an agent, you will need to include their contact details next. The casting director may be reaching out to your agent first if they have more questions, to invite you to an audition or more.

Here you will include some basic information about your physical appearance. This includes height and weight (optional). There is typically no need to go into further detail and add details about your hair or eye colors as these will be visible in a headshot.

If you are attaching a headshot to your resume, include a thumbnail at the top of the page. This will help the casting director instantly know whose resume they are looking at.

A resume summary is a brief introduction of who you are. Include a few lines about acting skills, experience and credentials.

In this section of your resume, list your acting credits. This may include theatre credits, film credits, TV credits and more.

It’s best to group and list your credits by project type. They should generally be listed in reverse-chronological order.

But if your acting jobs are not equal in their “value”, start with the biggest, most well-known or otherwise most impressive credits. You don’t have to list your acting credits in chronological order.

For more information on resume formats, check out our article on Top Resume Formats: Tips and Examples of 3 Common Formats .

You can choose what credits you want to add to your resume and what may be best to leave out.

Education and training

Here, add information about your acting education.

This section of your resume shouldn’t take more than a third of your resume page. However, if you end up having some extra space, make sure to add the names of your instructors, especially if they have weight in the industry. Having a well-recognizable name on your resume can add credibility to your application and spike the interest of the hiring director. Plus, you can use your instructors as potential references.

If you’ve taken additional acting classes, attended a workshop or training, put this information here.

Special skills are things that you can do very well that may be useful in your acting career. There are different categories of special skills and you should group and list them accordingly.

Examples of special skills include:

Sports, dance and playing musical instruments Foreign languages you speak and accents you can do Voices you can do and so on

References from previous work, testimonials and reviews

If you have references or reviews from your previous acting work, these can be very helpful in helping you land a new gig. Do not include full texts of your references in your resume. Instead, simply list the references you have available and mention that they are attached as separate documents.

Tips for writing an actor resume

Here are some additional best practices for writing an acting resume that works.

Tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. If you are applying for a role in a movie, your resume should reflect that you have relevant experience and skills. If you are applying to act in a commercial, make changes in your resume to emphasize that you are a good commercial actor.

Use a clear format. A poorly formatted resume won’t get you far. Casting directors are especially busy people and they have seen it all. Unless your resume is interesting and easy to read, they might not give it a second look and your chances for getting an audition will be very low.

Send your resume in PDF format. Unless otherwise specified, you should send your resume as a PDF document. This is the most popular resume format and is generally compatible with any device. Make sure the casting manager doesn’t have to spend any extra time figuring out how to open your resume file.

Acting resume example: reverse-chronological order

Summing things up

So, let’s sum up what makes a good acting resume.

• First, make sure your resume is focused on the position you are applying for. It’s essential that the skills and experience you list on your resume are used as proof that you are the best person for this specific job.
• Second, the format does matter. Make sure your resume is clear and easy to read and has all the information the casting director might require.
• Use reverse chronological format when listing your acting experience. However, if your biggest acting roles were the earlier ones, it would be best to list them first.
• Your acting resume shouldn’t be over a page long.
• If you have references, you can send them as separate files together with your resume.

Learn more about how to write a resume .

Acting cover letter

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How to Create Your Acting Resume

Last Updated: May 25, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Patricia Chukerman and by wikiHow staff writer, Dan Hickey . Patricia Chukerman is an Image Consultant & Marketing Specialist and the Owner of Paperworks Image Consulting and Stoned on Rocks. With more than 36 years of experience, she specializes in helping companies decide how to market themselves. In addition to her work with businesses, she also has more than four years of acting experience and more than five years of crafting experience. Patricia earned her BA from The University of Illinois Chicago. Patricia is also the President of the Dania Beach Chamber of Commerce and the President of the Hollywood Florida Scholarship Foundation. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 16 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 430,264 times.

An acting resume is a snapshot of who you are and the acting experience you have—but what should you include, especially if you’re just starting out? Whether you’re a beginner actor with no experience or a seasoned thespian, a professional-looking resume that showcases your skills and talents can help you land your dream role. We’ve put together a guide with all the information you need to include and how to format it for success. If you’re ready to go out there and break a leg, read on!

What to Include on Your Acting Resume

• Unions you might list include SAG-AFTRA or Equity/AEA.
• List your union after your name ( John Smith, SAG-AFTRA) or on a separate line ( Union: SAG-AFTRA).

• If you’re auditioning for a singing role, include your voice type (soprano, alto, tenor, baritone, or bass) and your vocal range if you know your lowest and highest notes (for example, C3–A4).
• Do not list your age or date of birth unless you’re under 18 years old. Keeping your age vague increases the number of roles you could be a good fit for.
• List your traits with the attribute bolded ( Height: 5’11” Voice Type: Tenor) in one line beneath your contact information.

• Leave out the dates of your roles to avoid exposing your age.
• Don’t include modeling or extra work—stick with relevant acting experience.

• Only list the director if they’re very well-known (you can put their name alongside the company’s name or in place of the location if you’re short on space).
• Types of roles in TV credits are series regular, recurring, guest star, or co-star.
• Types of roles in film credits are lead, supporting, principal, or featured.

• For example: “BFA, Acting — New York University — New York City, NY”
• Mention any specialized training or certifications related to acting, like stunt coordination or choreography, and any well-known teachers or coaches you’ve studied with.
• Your graduation dates are optional. To keep your age vague, leave them out.
• List any training in acting-related fields like music (especially singing), dance, improv, or stunts.

• For example: “ Special Skills: aerial acrobatics, singing (classical and pop), dance (tap and contemporary), guitar, piano, French accent, German accent, juggling.”
• Some more special skills casting agents might look for are crying on cue, voiceover acting, improvisation, stage combat or weapons handling experience, clowning, or miming.
• The more unique or specialized your skill sets are, the more you’ll stand out. For example, instead of “dance,” you could put “ballet and samba.”

• Save your resume in an easy-to-access location on your computer for fast editing and updating. If you’re submitting electronically, save it as a PDF file so it’s readable on any device.

Acting Resume Format and Presentation

• Stick with a clean, professional font like Times New Roman or Arial.
• Stick with one font color (black).
• Make your resume stand out by keeping it super clean and readable. Bold your headers and leave plenty of white space on the page so it’s easy to skim quickly.

• Wear a simple, solid-colored shirt. Dark colors photograph better than light colors, and white should be avoided.
• Wear your hair in a simple, everyday style and keep your makeup to a minimum (the photographer can make touch ups during editing if necessary).
• Pose in a natural position. Your shot shouldn’t include your hands or any props.
• Remember, casting agents want to see the natural you. Wild clothing, makeup, hair, or poses will distract them (and hurt your chances of getting the role).

• Stapling ensures your resume and headshot don’t get separated. Avoid using paper clips or tape.
• Don’t print your resume on the back of your headshot. It’s costly and inconvenient to print large photos every time you update your resume.

Expert Q&A

• Always be honest on your resume. Lies or fabrications will come out when you’re asked to demonstrate a special skill or if a hiring agent tries to speak with a director you listed but haven’t actually worked with. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Only list directors, teachers, or co-stars you’ve worked with if they’re very well-known or relevant to the role you want. Saving space is important, and too many names can make your resume look crowded and hard to skim. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Update your resume as you gain experience. When you’re first starting out, it might only contain college or community theater roles. As you grow into a professional, replace amateur productions with more high-profile or reputable ones. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ Patricia Chukerman. Image Consultant & Marketing Specialist. Expert Interview. 8 February 2022.
• ↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/dont-dread-it-write-it-a-guide-to-acting-resumes/
• ↑ https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/how-to-ace-your-headshot-session/

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How To Format an Acting Resume

Your acting resume is like your business card. It serves to make a first impression, tells people the type of work you do and, most importantly, gives them the information needed to hire you to do that work!

Your acting resume should be a constant work in progress; something you update regularly throughout your career and training.

Here are some helpful guidelines and examples to help you format your acting resume. These are not hard and fast rules, but rather industry standards that will guarantee you present yourself in the most professional way possible.

THINGS TO REMEMBER:  

• YOUR RESUME MUST FIT ON ONE 8×10 PIECE OF PAPER.
• THERE CAN BE NO TYPOS ON YOUR RESUME.
• ALL NAMES MUST BE SPELLED CORRECTLY.
• WHEN ATTACHING RESUMES TO HEADSHOTS, STAPLE ALL 4 CORNERS WITH THE FLAT SIDE OF THE STAPLE ON THE HEADSHOT & PRONGS ON THE RESUME.
• WHEN EMAILING YOUR RESUME, ITS BEST TO SEND THE FILE AS A PDF.

THE TOP OF YOUR RESUME

• Your professional name
• This is one more opportunity to put a face to your name.
• Helpful in case your headshot and resume ever get separated.  
• Phone number
• There is no need to include your address on your resume.
• Weight (Optional)
• Pronouns (Optional, but highly encouraged)
• Hair and eye color on resumes goes back to the days of black and white headshots!
• If you have any union affiliation, including eligibility, be sure to include it towards the top.
• If you’re represented by an agent, you’ll most likely be required to add their logo and contact information to the top of your resume as well.

Listing Your Credits – General Information

• Separate your credits by project type / medium.
• There’s no need for credits to be listed in chronological order!
• You can choose specifically what you want to share on your resume.
• A 3 column layout combines the name of the theatre/production company and the director.
• Make sure you’re consistent with whichever format you choose!

Theatre Credits

Symbols can also be used to denote new works, ensemble devised pieces, nominations, and awards.

3 Column Example :

4 Column Example :

Understudy Credits

When listing understudy credits, it’s important to note the role/rules you understudied, as well as whether you performed in the show or not.

• To note that you were an understudy : write the abbreviation (u/s) next to the character name in the “role” column.
• If you’re tight on space, you can also use a symbol and description to denote this information.

Film Credits

• Film credits should be listed by role type rather than by character name or description.
• When listing a student film on your resume, mention the college as the production company. 

Role Types – Film

• Lead: The actor appears in most scenes. Their role is central to the story.
• Supporting: The actor fills a principal role and appears in one or more scenes.  Although important to the storyline, the role is not a lead character.
• Principal: In film, this term refers to a speaking role, without getting too specific about how central the actor’s character is to the story. It has also been used to denote non-contract players who have five or more lines.
• Featured: The actor has one scene with one or more lines; not big enough to be a supporting role and easily cut from the final version of the film. If the role stays in, the actor’s name appears in the end credits.
• TV credits should also be listed by role type rather than by character name.
• Include the production company and director as well. 

Role Types – TV

• Series Regular : The actor is under exclusive contract with the show to appear (or be paid regardless of appearing) every week.
• Recurring: The actor returns as the same character over multiple episodes.
• Guest Star: The actor appears as a one-episode guest whose character’s storyline is central to that particular episode. 
• Co-star: The actor appears as a one-episode guest whose character may or may not be central to that episode’s storyline. 

Commercial Credits

• The reason for not listing commercials is to avoid listing or mentioning past projects you’ve done with products that may come into conflict with the product/company you’re auditioning for. 
• If you’re starting out and need credits to fill space on your resume, you can list your commercials with the ad agency, role, and production company/director in order to avoid revealing the product

Education and Training

Education and training should take up no more than 1/3rd of your resume. 

• Having respected and recognizable names on your resume improves your credibility. These people can also serve as potential references!

Remember : Don’t put any dates on your resume. You don’t want anything on your resume that reveals, hints at, or suggests your age!

Special Skills

Special Skills are things that you can do very well…. so well that someone would pay you to do them!

Special skills categories and how to list them:

• Include your experience level, or how many years you’ve been studying/practicing the skill.
• Conversational or Fluent. 
• Only list ones you can do well on command!
• While not a requirement, many actors choose to end their special skills list with something unique or humorous that could serve as a “getting to know you” or a “conversation starter”

Non-Acting /Industry Related Jobs

Jobs such as: Print work, extra work, directing, stage management, and other non-acting theatre jobs ultimately do not belong on your acting resume .

HOWEVER : if you don’t have much experience as an actor yet, it is ok to list these under “ Related Experience ”

There’s no need to put a “references” section on your acting resume.

For even more helpful advice for actors, be sure to check out these awesome resources for information on acting and navigating “The Biz”.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Resume Profile Explained...

Resume Profile Explained (with Examples)

13 min read · Updated on January 17, 2024

Make an impact with a knock-out profile

When it comes to job search success, nothing is more important than ensuring that your resume captures an employer's attention. After all, even the best resumes are useless if no one reads them. Of course, that raises an important question: is there anything you can do to make your resume get the attention it deserves?

In this post, we'll explain how a great resume profile can help you to solve that challenge. We'll explain how a resume profile works, when you should use it in your resume, and how to create a profile that immediately commands interest. Finally, we'll provide several resume profile examples that you can customize and use in your own resume.

What is a resume profile?

If you're already familiar with the resume objective statement or resume summary, then the concept of a resume profile should be easy to understand. Put simply, the resume profile is an introductory paragraph that quickly summarizes your skills and experiences in a way that motivates hiring managers to continue reading your resume.

As you'll discover in our resume profile examples later in the post, a great profile focuses attention on your best skills, experience, and achievements. You can think of it as an elevator pitch for your resume - a quick snapshot that provides just enough information to make the reader want to learn more about you.

Related: Make the Perfect First Impression With Your Resume

What types of resume profiles can you use?

To better understand the resume profile, it may help to look at some of the different types of resume profiles that job seekers can use. There are three different types of common profiles, including the objective statement, summary, and summary of qualifications.

Objective statement

The resume objective statement is often considered obsolete, since it tends to focus more on your career goals than the employer's needs. It's often used by entry level workers with little experience or career-changers who need to explain why their skill set makes them a good candidate for the job. To use it effectively, job candidates need to ensure that they include some language that explains how they can benefit the employer if they're hired. For example:

“Creative social media professional with 3 years of experience and proven results. Skilled in cross-platform engagement enhancement and brand development. Looking for an opportunity to work with a company that prioritizes customer experience and brand loyalty. Experience includes increasing customer engagement by 130% over a six-month period.”

Related : Resume Objective Examples: A Career Objective Guide

Summary paragraph

The resume summary has replaced the objective statement in most modern resumes - and for good reason. This brief paragraph may also mention one or two key skills, but its primary focus is on detailing your important work experience and measurable achievements. As a result, the summary is a preferred option for job seekers with significant experience, since it's designed to demonstrate your value as an employee. Below, is an example of this type of profile statement:

“Accomplished Project Manager with more than ten years of successful team building and project execution expertise. Skilled in process development, workflow management, and collaboration with stakeholders. Received Agile Leader award in 2018. While at ABC Corporation, developed personnel resource allocation program that increased project efficiency by 48% in the first year of use.”

Summary of qualifications

The third option is the summary of qualifications. The main difference between this type of summary and the summary paragraph involves the format choice. Instead of being one block of text, it combines a brief paragraph with several bullet point examples of notable achievements. For example:

Dynamic Team Leader with 7 years of experience in customer management, problem-solving, and team building. Proven to increase team productivity, enhance the customer service experience, and provide real value to an employer.

• Led 30-person team of technical professionals, with 95% customer satisfaction
• Reorganized project workflow for ABC Corporation, increasing efficiency by 45%
• Developed training program that reduced employee onboarding costs by 17%

What elements should you include in your resume profile?

Before you create a resume profile, it's important to think about the types of information you want to include for your reader. What types of qualification is the employer evaluating as part of its hiring decision? Does the job description focus primarily on core skills ? Do you have achievements that are likely to make a positive impression on the hiring manager?

There are many different profile elements that you can include, so you'll need to prioritize based on the employers' needs. The fact is that you won't have room in your profile to cover all these different types of information, so choose wisely:

Skills that are relevant to the position you're seeking

Your length of experience

Notable achievements, preferably ones that you can quantify with real numbers

Core personal characteristics that make you a good fit for the role

Your career aspirations - preferably noted in a way that shows how they align with the company's vision

Related : Top 15 Professional Goals and How to Achieve Them

Again, make sure that you focus attention on the job posting, taking note of every key skill and experience that the employer cites as required qualifications. You'll want to tailor your profile - and the rest of your resume - to align with those stated employer needs.

Pro tip: Make special note of those job requirements, since you will want to use the same language in your resume. Those keywords are essential for ensuring that your resume can satisfy any applicant tracking system screening the employer might be using.

You should also do some research to learn more about the company's culture. That will enable you to further tailor your resume profile to include personal traits that highlight how well you'll fit into that environment. Sometimes, those little details can make the difference between you and another similarly qualified candidate.

How to write your own resume profile: tips

When you're ready to create your resume profile, it's important to know how to do it the right way. Since it's the first thing employers will see after they're done reading your contact details, you need to make sure that it's as compelling as possible. The following tips can help.

Write this part of your resume last

Even though your profile section will be near the top of your resume, you should still create this important section last. Why? Well, it's simple: since the resume profile serves as a summary of your qualifications, it's helpful to get the rest of the resume done before you start on that summary.

Make it brief

Be as concise as you can. Again, think of this profile section as a salesperson's elevator pitch. It doesn't need to tell your entire employment story, but should instead serve as a brief highlight of your greatest hits. As a rule, try to restrict this paragraph to no more than four sentences. If you use a summary of qualifications, include just one or two brief sentences and three or four bullet points.

Choose the best profile type for your job search needs

Which type of profile should you create? If you're an entry-level employee, you may want to focus on a modified objective statement - one that focuses on your career goals, while highlighting the ways in which your skills can benefit the employer. If you have more experience, you may want to rely on the summary paragraph. Just be sure to include at least one measurable achievement to highlight your value.

If you're switching careers and need to focus attention on transferable skills, you may even want to rely on a summary of qualifications. Those bullet points can be a great way to emphasize specific skills and highlight the value that you've provided for previous employers.

Tailor the profile to your desired position

Make sure that your profile aligns with the job you're seeking. You can do this by including some core keywords from the job posting, detailing your qualifications. However, make sure that your profile ultimately aligns with who you are as an employee. If you take the tailoring to extremes, you may end up with a profile that fails to accurately represent your personality and character.

Don't be afraid to add personality

Speaking of personality, this is the place to add that personal touch. Your skills, work experience, and education sections are not appropriate for adding personality, but a few well-chosen words in your profile can help the employer to better understand you as a person.

Of course, make sure that your personal flourishes fit with the type of job you're seeking. For example, a few words about your fun work style will be appreciated if you're applying for a customer service or similar position. That same language may not be as useful if you're seeking a role in a law firm. Use your best judgment as you determine how much personality to put into any profile.

Use measurable achievements

We've already mentioned measurable achievements several times, but it's important to highlight them once again. Your resume profile should include at least one quantifiable accomplishment, backed by real numbers that demonstrate the value you've provided. For example:

• Implemented new networking system that reduced downtime by 33%, improving both efficiency and productivity and providing 12% cost savings for the company
• Led sales team effort that increased new customer acquisition by 13% while generating $12 million in new revenues in the first six months of the fiscal year
• Created an online customer engagement program that increased website visits by 45%, enhanced new sales activities by 13%, and boosted revenues by 10% within one quarter of implementation

Resume profile examples you can use

As you might expect, your approach to creating a resume profile can also differ based on the type of job you're seeking. That's because different job roles require different skill sets, experiences, and personal qualities.

To get you started, we've compiled resume profile examples covering a wide variety of professions. You can use these professional profile examples as templates for your profile, or simply refer to them for guidance as you create your own unique resume opening.

Resume profile examples for students

Recent Information Technology graduate focused on operating and security software management. Seeking employment with a dynamic software firm in need of advanced networking and troubleshooting expertise. Experience includes a one-year internship with DynacorpX, providing testing and problem-resolution that helped increase company productivity by 14%.

Resume profile example for entry-level applicants

Friendly, detail-oriented, and organized customer service professional looking to be part of an energetic, mission-focused team.

• Skilled at developing organizational processes, managing records, and engaging customers
• Successfully resolved customer complaints, with 90% satisfaction rate while volunteering with FreshStart
• Broad computer systems expertise, including database and presentation platforms

Resume profile example for career-changers

Personnel-focused Sales Team Leader with 10+ years of experience in team building, training, and sales program development. Looking to transition to a project management role to better use organizational and project implementation skills. While at ABC Corporation, successfully created and executed a sales process reorganization that cut waste by 45%, saving the company more than $40,000 per year.

Related : 21 Project Management Skills Every Project Manager Needs to Succeed

Resume profile example for a Graphic Designer

Dynamic and innovative Graphic Designer with 4 years of experience in the gaming and entertainment industry. Skilled in developing storyboards, character animation, typography, and general layouts. Creative successes include development work on more than 200 unique graphic design projects that helped to generate more than $300 million in revenue.

Resume profile example for a Marketing Manager

Creative Marketing Manager focused on data-driven solutions. More than 8 years of experience in building collaborative teams capable of overcoming any challenge. While at XYZ Inc., led a 10-person team responsible for broadening target audience by 200%, increasing company revenues by 120% over a three-year period. Expertise includes digital marketing campaigns focused on driving new customer acquisition and target audience engagement.

Resume profile example for an Accountant

Detail-oriented finance professional with 7 years of accounting expertise. Proficient in accounting best practices, including creation and management of financial reports, regulatory compliance, tax issues, and budget management and forecasting. Reorganized DEF Corporation's accounting department, reducing inefficiencies by 28%, cutting costs by 19%, and improving productivity by 33%.

Resume profile example for an Administrative Assistant

Reliable Administrative Assistant with 8 years of experience in office management and personal assistance. Comprehensive expertise in presentation development, scheduling management, reporting, and confidentiality. Reorganized filing and reporting systems at Beagle Law, improving client response times by 40%, reducing redundancies, and cutting labor costs by 12%.

Resume profile example for a Data Scientist

Fact-driven Data Scientist with 8 years of experience in data analysis, predictive modeling, and data mining. Proficient with SQL, Python, Tableau, and other common data visualization systems. While at DataCore, took the lead on development of new processes that increased decision-making efficiency by improving the company's ability to use data to gain useful insights. Project resulted in an 18% increase in overall departmental productivity.

Resume profile example for an HR Manager

Personnel-focused HR Manager with 7 years of experience managing human resources functions. Expertise in recruitment, onboarding processes, employee training and relations, and performance reviews. Designed AmAm's new HR policies to align with new firm policies, emphasizing progressive discipline and promotion of a positive work environment. Effort resulted in a 33% reduction in turnover and 43% increase in employee satisfaction.

Resume profile example for a Teacher

Results-oriented educator with 6 years of experience as a middle school Teacher. Expertise in crafting challenging but engaging lesson plans designed to encourage critical thinking and classroom participation in an inclusive way. Dedicated to professional development to stay abreast of current educational best practices and focused on enhancing each student's ability to achieve success. Specific competencies include English, US History, and Basic Civics.

Resume profile example for a Construction Manager

Task-oriented construction professional with more than 10 years of experience in both commercial and residential project management. Led teams responsible for completing more than 60 construction projects valued at more than $40 million dollars, with a 99% on-time and under-budget record of success. Bilingual (English and Spanish) manager with expertise in budget allocation, resource management, project estimates and implementation.

Craft the best possible intro for your resume!

No matter what type of resume profile you decide to use to introduce yourself to prospective employers, your goal should always be the same: to create a powerful and compelling message that inspires employers to read the rest of your resume. The tips and resume profile examples we've provided should ensure that you have everything you need to craft your own profile narrative.

Still not sure if your resume profile has what it takes to capture your reader's interest? Get a free resume review from our team of top experts today!

Recommended reading:

47 Accomplishment Examples for Your Resume: Expert Picks

The Best Resume Format to Get Hired

How to Advance Your Career (plus 10 Insightful Tips)

Related Articles:

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

Why You Lose When You Lie on Your Resume: Learning From Mina Chang

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10 tips for writing a resume in English

Writing a resume can be challenging, especially if it’s not your first language! Grammar and spelling should be spot-on, plus cultural formatting preferences vary. For example, in the U.S., resumes never include photos, and are usually limited to a single page. Although style preferences vary, best practices are universal. 

Let’s look at some dos and don’ts for writing a resume in English!

DOs for writing a resume in English

✅ 1. DO use bullet points and incomplete sentences. Incomplete sentences may seem unusual, but not in resumes! For example, an applicant for a lab research assistant might list prior experience as follows:

• Implemented a research project
• Developed a serum

💡 Tip: You can put periods after the bullets or leave them off, as long as you’re consistent.

✅ 2. DO ensure verb tenses are consistent. Resumes follow parallel structure , meaning the starting words are the same part of speech. They can be verb phrases (example 1), or noun phrases (example 2):

• Organized data
• Assisted with administrative tasks
• Implementation of a research project
• Organization of data
• Assistance with administrative tasks

You can use either, as long as it’s consistent and easy to read!

✅ 3. DO only include relevant experience. It’s not necessary to list every experience or skill. You only have one page, but don’t worry, more will be covered in interview questions ! Focus on job listing requirements and highlight your most relevant skills and experience.

Example 1: For the lab assistant position, highlight relevant skills, especially those mentioned in the listing.

• Skills: coding, chemistry, research
• ❌ Don’t include “cooking skills,” even if you have them!

Example 2: For a restaurant job, it would look different!

• Skills: prepping, catering, customer service
• ❌ Don’t include “research skills.”

✅ 4. DO include all language skills, even your native language(s)! Language skills are helpful for ANY job: the more languages you know, the better! You can say you have "excellent written and verbal skills” wherever applicable, as both are incredibly valuable. You may think it’s a given, but it’s not! Employers will be glad to know that you’d never send an email saying “heres the doc 4 u,” or use other unprofessional-sounding language. 

You can also consider listing the CEFR level of your languages or using other standardized measures, like your Duolingo English Test score, and breaking down your proficiency by speaking, reading, writing, and listening , especially if relevant for the position.

✅ 5. DO include commonly relevant skills you have. Think about skills broadly: What are tools and technology you know how to use? What are things you do well, and what do your colleagues come to you for help with? Your skills might include things like software, including Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and task-management platforms, or your abilities, like time-management skills.

💡 Tip: You can say “proficient” for more than just languages! For example, you can also say “ proficient in Microsoft Excel” to mean that you know how to use it really well. Again, just make sure the list is consistent:

• Microsoft Excel
• Time management
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel
• Excellent at time management

Now that we have the basics for a great resume, let’s highlight common pitfalls.

DON’Ts for writing a resume in English

The “don’t”s for a resume go hand-in-hand with the “do”s:

❌ 1. DON’T use “I.” This is unnecessary, as the employer knows you’re referring to yourself.

• ❌ “I implemented a research project. I formulated a serum.”

❌ 2. DON’T write full sentences for job titles. This takes up room, leaving less space for other experiences and skills.

• ❌ Job title: “I completed an internship at Duolingo Laboratories.” Instead, your title could be “Intern, Duolingo Laboratories."

❌ 3. DON’T use inconsistent tenses. This is easy to miss, and can make a resume look disorganized.

• ❌ Implemented a research project
• ❌ Organization of data
• ❌ Report writer

💡 Tip: Say each bullet point aloud to check for consistency. If you’re using verbs to start each bullet, you can say them as “I” statements to ensure they match: “ I implemented, I organization? Wait, it should be… I implemented, I organized…” Or for noun phrases, try “Implementation of a research project… (is what I did). Organization of data… (is good).”

❌ 4. DON’T use specialized language unless applicable. A recruiter or employer should understand what you’re talking about. You don’t want them to do extra work interpreting your resume, especially when they have a pile to sift through! If there’s specific vocabulary related to your previous experience, list synonyms:

• ❌ Monolingual exercise writer for Duolingo
• ✅ Content writer for Duolingo

❌ 5. DON’T use uncommon abbreviations. While YOU may know what they mean, an employer or recruiter may not. Stick to universal abbreviations and try to avoid jargon :

• ✅ PhD, Feb., CEO
• ❌ L&C, OSI, KR

💡 Tip: Consistency is key on a resume, and this also applies to abbreviations for dates! Don’t write “Feb-Oct” on one line and “July-January” on another.

Now that we’ve reviewed the dos and don’ts, let’s put it all together and see a sample resume section! Here’s how that former research intern might format their experience on their resume, and how they might format their “Skills” section:

Don’t let different formats and styles overwhelm you. Remember two things:

A resume is your potential employer’s first impression of you and your work, and we’re rooting for you! 💪

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