Casting Director Work Sessions: What They Are & How to Nail Yours

If you’ve ever received an audition callback referred to as a work session, congratulations! Not all casting offices do them, but when they do, it’s a great opportunity to refine your audition before stepping in front of producers, directors, or network executives.

So, what exactly is a work session?

What is a Work Session?

A work session is essentially a callback audition, but instead of performing for the entire creative team, you’re working only with the casting director (and maybe their associates/assistants). It’s a private session where they’ll run the scene(s) with you, offer feedback, and provide redirects to ensure you’re hitting the necessary beats before the next stage of the casting process.

Think of it as a rehearsal with the person who’s rooting for you to book the role.

How Do Work Sessions Work?

Work sessions can be in-person or virtual via Zoom, depending on the casting office and the project. They typically last 20-30 minutes but usually won’t be longer than an hour. The casting director may:
✅ Run the scene(s) multiple times.
✅ Give you insights into what the producers are looking for.
✅ Offer adjustments to help refine your performance.
✅ Test your ability to take direction quickly.

Unlike your first audition or self-tape, this is your chance to play, explore, and fine-tune before the real deal in front of the major decision makers.

📌 Will the Work Session Be Filmed?
Casting may or may not record your work session. If it’s an in-person session, they probably won’t film, but if it’s virtual (on Zoom), there’s a possibility that they will.

🎥 Be Prepared for Virtual Requests – If your session is on Zoom, casting may ask you to:
▶️ Pin the reader so they remain visible on your screen.
▶️ Record from your end and send them the file afterward.

Make sure you know how to navigate Zoom’s settings in advance so you’re not scrambling during the session. YouTube can be your best friend! Watch a few quick "how-to" Zoom tutorials before your session—fumbling with tech mid-session can be a confidence killer.

What to Expect & How to Prepare

1️⃣ Stick to What Got You Here – Do not make changes to your performance before the work session. Bring in what got you this far. If casting liked what you did enough to call you back, don’t second-guess yourself or your choices.

2️⃣ Coaching is Fine—But Don’t Reinvent the Wheel – If you choose to work with a coach before your work session, focus on committing to the choices you made in your first audition. This is not the time to make completely new choices unless casting informed you to ahead of time in their work session invite. Don’t fix what isn’t broken.

3️⃣ Take a Breath – Casting Already Likes You! – If you’ve been invited to a work session, it means they already like you and your performance. The pressure (for the moment) is off—so relax and enjoy working with them.

4️⃣ Be Open to Direction – The casting director is guiding you toward what will work best for the project. Listen, adjust, and show that you’re directable.

5️⃣ Take Notes Immediately After – If you’re lucky enough to move on, the next round of decision-makers will expect to see the version you worked on in the session (remember that casting knows more about the project than we do, trust their suggestions). Write down the feedback so you don’t forget key adjustments.

6️⃣ Stay Present & Flexible – Sometimes, a work session will completely change how you approach the scene. Embrace the process!

7️⃣ Prepare for the Format – If your session is on Zoom, make sure your lighting, sound, and background are set up professionally.

8️⃣ Show Gratitude – Not every actor gets a work session, so if you do, it means the casting team believes in you. Appreciate the opportunity by bringing your A-game.

What to Bring (or Have on Hand for a Virtual Session)

To make the most of your work session, be prepared with the following:
✔️ Your script
✔️ A pencil (for marking notes and adjustments)
✔️ Water (stay hydrated!)
✔️ Any questions you may have—this is your chance to clarify anything that’s unclear
✔️ Your bright, shining attitude—be ready to have fun and enjoy the process!

Final Thoughts

A work session is a gift—it means you’re on the right track. If you get one, treat it as a chance to elevate your performance and prove you can take direction. Nail it, and you’ll walk into your producer session with confidence.

As an audition coach, I’ve helped countless actors enhance their performances, feel confident in their choices, and ultimately BOOK the role. If you’re looking for more personalized guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out (click above "Work With Kimberly" for more details) — I’d love to help you take your auditions to the next level!🎭🎬