Q: Hi Michael,

You were great at the convention…

…my question is what from the convention experience can we put on his resume?  Brandon…did 9 performances with modeling and acting through the week.  I would think it’s got to be worth something.  Can you help direct me on this so I can improve his current resume?

Thanks for all your help.

A: …From any convention, you can and should list the training aspects, especially as you are just starting to build your resume.

The “performances” were essentially auditions: he wasn’t in a production where he was directed as an actor; he was presenting himself for consideration in future projects.  Auditions don’t go on a resume…it would be like listing jobs you’ve applied for on a professional resume for your next job interview.  Your potential employer is interested in the work you did, not work you applied for.

There is a section for training, however, and [at this particular convention] there were two intensive days of training.  I might call them “Audition Workshops,” and list them at Name of Convention in City.  If you’d like, you are more than welcome to put my name down (and the names of anyone else you worked with), as long as you represent it appropriately and call it a workshop.

Please understand that this doesn’t minimize the value of his total experience: the thing to remember is that he grew SO much from his time on stage, and if he continues to challenge himself he will go into future auditions carrying that increased energy and confidence with him.

I encourage you to keep auditioning and keep the momentum going.

UPDATE: Of course, if you are formally recognized at the convention: winner of your age group, a category, honorable mention, etc., you can list that under Awards in a separate section of your resume.