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Building a correct acting resume
   Let's start with the stock (paper) you'll be using for the resume and cover letter. They should be 8 x 10 inches —the same size as your headshot. Use some nice letterhead paper and trim it down to size. Your package consists of the cover letter on top with a one page resume under that and your headshot on the bottom. Staple all three at the top in the middle with the staple parralel to the top and bottom edges (yes, be obssesive about your presentation.) Make sure the staple doesn't cover your name at the top of the resume.
   Take a look at this sample resume: example.
Note you have your name and contact information centered at the top. Personally, I like the name to be a little larger, about 18 point type. The contact information should contain a phone and email address. Your physical address is not required and never include your social security number for reasons of privacy (discarted resumes may end up in the wrong hands.)
   Depending on who you are submitting to list your theatre credits first or if trying out for a movie for example list your film, TV, and commercial

credits first —then theatre. The credits should be listed in order of importance rather than chronologically. 30 seconds in a Paramount film is more impressive than a lead in grad film. If the director or theatre company is well known make sure to include the name. If the company is not well known, add the city.
   Keep all the information neatly presented in columns, using bolder or bigger type for headlines keeping the whole thing down to a single page.   Using a type style and size that is easy to read is also helpful. Naturally, proof everything carefully to make sure there are no grammatical errors —including the name of the person to whom you are directing this letter.
   One final word about the headshot. The trend these days is to use a color headshot instead of black and white. Most photographers can provide you with fifty or a hundred 8x10 glossies that feature your name at the bottom. This is the industry standard. Commercial headshots should not be overly dramatic —a friendly attractive look is what you're going for. And it should be current! If it shows off long blond hair, please don't cut it all off and dye it black... you'll make your agent very unhappy.