How to Build Stronger Relationships with Casting Directors Through Follow-Ups and Career Updates
By The Up-To-Date Actor, June 13, 2025
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In an industry built on relationships, staying connected with casting directors can make all the difference in your acting journey. While talent gets you in the room, professionalism, consistency, and thoughtful communication help keep you on their radar. One of the most effective — and often underused — tools for building long-term relationships in this business? Follow-up notes and career updates.
Start Here: Build Your Casting Director Database
Before we dive into the specifics of effective casting director follow-up communication, it’s important to create a personal database of all your auditions, meetings, and interactions with casting professionals. This simple organizational habit helps you track key details — like who you've met, what project it was for, and when it happened — so your follow-up messages can be targeted, thoughtful, and professional.
Read our full guide on creating a Casting Director Personal Database »
Now, let’s break down how you can use these tools to grow your connections and leave a lasting impression.
1. The Purpose of Follow-Up Notes
A follow-up note is more than just a polite thank-you — it’s an opportunity to show appreciation, reinforce your professionalism, and remind the casting director of who you are.
When should you send one?
- After an audition (especially a callback or a meeting for a major project)
- After attending a workshop or industry event
- After being cast or pinned, even if the project doesn't go forward
What should it include?
- A brief, sincere thank-you
- A personalized touch (reference something specific from your interaction)
- A gentle reminder of your essence or type
- Acknowledgement of any feedback, suggested technique improvements, or notes given during the audition or meeting. Show that you are taking steps to expand and evolve your talent with their suggestions.
Examples:
"Thank you so much for the opportunity to audition for [Project Name]. I really appreciated the space you created in the room — it helped me feel grounded and free to play. I’m excited about the project and hope to collaborate again soon!"
"It was so lovely meeting you at your Actors Connection seminar. I was grateful for the notes you provided after I performed my scene, and I've followed your advice to add some multi-camera training to my resume. I just completed a 4-week private coaching intensive with [Coach Name], and I'm looking forward to taking classes at UCB in August as per your recommendation. Here is a scene I worked on in my coaching session: [Link to self-tape]"
2. How to Send Career Updates That Matter
Casting directors don’t just want to see you once — they want to see how you grow. Regular career updates (think quarterly or 2–3 times per year) help reinforce your presence without being overbearing.
What counts as an update-worthy milestone?
- Booking a role in a TV/film/theater project
- Signing with a new agent or manager
- A new reel, headshot, or website
- Getting into a prestigious festival, showcase, or training program
Keep it simple, friendly, and professional:
“Just wanted to share a quick update — I recently wrapped a co-star on [Show Name] and updated my reel to include the clip. Thank you for your continued support!”
3. Email Etiquette and Boundaries
Respect is key. Casting directors are busy professionals, so your messages should be brief, well-formatted, and intentional.
Best practices:
- Use a clear subject line (e.g., “Career Update – [Your Name]” or “Thank You – [Project/Audition Name]”)
- Avoid attaching large files — use links instead
- Proofread carefully
- Don't expect a reply (but appreciate one if it comes!)
Don’t send updates every month or messages after every self-tape submission. The goal is meaningful connection, not constant contact.
4. Be Yourself — Consistently
The casting relationship isn’t just about your last audition — it’s about your story as a whole. Your follow-ups and updates help tell that story over time.
By showing up with gratitude, growth, and authenticity, you build trust. Over time, casting directors get to know you not just as a performer, but as a person they want to bring into the room.
Final Thought
Think of follow-up notes and career updates as gentle touchpoints — ways to keep your light shining in their awareness without ever needing to shout. When done with care and intention, these small gestures can lead to long-term professional relationships that open doors for years to come.
Stay consistent, stay kind, and stay true to your journey. Casting directors are watching — and they remember those who follow up with heart.