There are two things you should be prepared to encounter as an aspiring actor: a screening interview and a call back. The former refers to a short meeting; the latter refers to a longer, more involved interview. A screening interview is the time when the casting director decides if you're the best actor to play the part. This is when you really want to shine -- it's that whole "first impression" thing.

On the other hand, a call back is basically one step before clinching the part. This refers to a situation where the casting director has already chosen you but just wants to make sure that he has made the right decision. He just wants to make sure that you have the right "chemistry" to take on the job.

Call back interviews can be unpredictable, so get ready for some fun. There are those that last for a few minutes or even half a day. As soon as you receive the call, try finding out as much as you can about the details. Ask the person calling, usually called the casting coordinator, about the names of the people who will be interviewing you. When you have this information, do your research. In addition to this, get to know more about the director, the film, the production company, the script, and most especially the role that you will play.

The aspirant will be meeting with other members and staff of the production team and with several other directors as well. Most of the time, they will be asked questions as if a screening interview were happening all over again. The reason for this is because each director will be hearing the information you give for the first time. So it is not advisable that you get frustrated having to repeat yourself over and over again.

In a call back, always arrive at the venue a few minutes before your appointment. Arriving too early will make you anxious and lose your cool. Arriving too late, on the other hand, makes you look bad. While waiting, you can practice what you will be saying to the interviewers.

Once you are in the interview room, try to be engaging and smart. Enthusiastic but not overwhelming. Do not move in your seat too much. Try to make the conversation as light as you can but with a bit of formality. When answering questions go straight to the point. Try avoiding fillers such as "uh" and "um" in between words and never interrupt the interviewer while he is talking.

Because this is an acting job, attend the call back prepared. When asked to act out a part, be willing. It is also wise to bring extra copies of your resume, your bio, your screen shots, as well as other documents that will tell the interviewers that you have had acting experience and training.

Because the position requires acting skills, you might be required to read a script and act it out. In connection with this, it will be best if you bring a reference list or extra copies of your resume highlighting previous acting exposures, training, and experience. Before you leave, try to recall all the interviewer's names in order for you to send a thank you note later on. This practice is acceptable and it will leave a good impression.