Have you ever watched contestants celebrate as they win the big bucks and thought, “I wonder if that could’ve been me”? It could! The only thing standing between you and a chance to win cash or some fantastic prize on a game show is an application.

Keep reading to learn what it’s like to be a contestant on a game show. If you stick around long enough, we’ll even share some tips and tricks for surviving the interview and audition processes.

The 6 Steps to Become a Game Show Contestant

Everyone has to go through a casting process to make it from their couch to the big screen.

1. Application

Every game show contestant starts with an online application that asks for personal information like name, mailing address, and phone number.

Even though games have individual application processes, the majority of them include an online quiz or test game. You’ll have to answer a certain amount of questions within a time limit. The results and your personal information are then sent up the chain.

A lesser-known secret is that some people are personally invited to apply on the show. This happens when the show sends talent scouts to local trivia competitions to identify potential contestants. The next time you compete at your local bar’s trivia night, keep an eye out—you may get discovered!

2. Interview and Audition

If the casting team likes your application, they’ll contact you to let you know you’ve made it to the next level of the process. Most game shows have a second screening process featuring a video call interview. Many games also have a live audition, where you go in for a practice game alongside a large group of other applicants.

These interviews and auditions allow casting directors to identify people who will perform well on the game show but also have energetic personalities that make them fun to watch and root for.

If you’re selected after this step, you’ve made it! The casting team will give you all the info you need to prepare for the show.

3. Preparation

Most contestants have some time to kill between casting and their shooting date. It might be months away. This is the perfect opportunity to do your homework and study up!

Review old episodes to familiarize yourself with the game style and common question topics. Have your friends quiz you, practice with similar online games, and go over memorization techniques. Do everything you can to be ready for the game when your shot on the show arrives.

4. Arrive on Set

The exact details differ from show to show, but the general production routine is similar. When your filming day arrives, you will get to the set early in the morning. You’ll meet with casting directors, and you may even have people do your hair and makeup and perform a screen test to make sure your clothes look good on camera.

Most sets have a team member assigned to you for the day, so you always have someone to help you know where to go and what’s expected of you. You’ll most likely be fed during the film day, so enjoy some snacks while you wait for your turn on stage.

5. Filming

Most shows film four to six episodes in a single day. While you wait for your turn, enjoy the food and the opportunity to interact with other contestants and members of the production team.

When your turn comes around, team members will escort you on stage and give you instructions about where to stand and what cues to follow.

Most hosts will take the time to meet you and learn a little bit about you. Applying to a game show would be a great way to meet some of your favorite celebrity hosts.

Remember, contestants aren’t paid just for appearing on a game show. To make money, you’ll have to work hard to score points and win prizes.

6. Post-Show Experience

When the show is finished, lucky contestants may receive souvenirs like pens, T-shirts, or the host’s autograph. Make sure you stay positive and thank the casting directors and everyone you meet on set; you never know when a chance to be on another game show will come along.

Some people are hooked the moment they get a taste of a game show and go on to apply for others. If you liked your experience, throw out some more applications and see if you can appear on other shows.

Secret Tips to Succeed on Game Shows

Everyone who gets that exciting response from a casting team member wants to do their best. There are some tricks of the trade that improve your chances of getting on the show.

• Know the Show: Know how the show works, past hosts, and game history to impress casting directors. Your knowledge will prove you’re passionate and don’t need extra instruction.
• Do Your Homework: Study up before your audition or interview so you are ready to answer questions and play the game.
• Have Interesting Facts Ready: In every interview or audition, a casting director asks you to share interesting facts about yourself. Have some prepared so you don’t draw a blank and miss the opportunity to make an impression.
• Have a Positive Attitude: Upbeat and excited contestants look the best on television. Show you’re excited about appearing on the show and share your positive attitude.
• Dress to Impress: Dress like you’re ready to appear on TV. Wear appropriate clothing at every touch point, even in your interview or in-person audition.
• Show Respect: Everyone on the crew, no matter the role, can potentially influence the casting process. Treat everyone with respect and kindness.
• Follow Instructions: The casting directors are literally “directors.” Going against what they say will get you booted off the show pretty quickly. Their tips will help you win, so listen up!
• Stay Loose and Calm: Nothing will kill your chances like getting nervous and clamming up when you have a chance to answer.
• Leave a Good Impression: Casting directors are always looking for new talent. If you don’t get the chance now but leave a good impression, they may reach out later for a second chance.
• Arrive on Time: Always arrive punctually to show respect for the crew and give yourself time to go over instructions. It’s better to be early than late!
• Speak Clearly: If casting directors see you mumbling or talking very softly, your chances of appearing on TV are likely to shrink.

Watch, Practice, and Play with Game Show Network

Now you have all the tips and information you need to send out a game show application right away! Use Game Show Network to review how games are played and watch contestants to see what traits make them successful.

There’s even more to enjoy online! Play the online versions of some of the best game shows to practice or unwind after a long day. There’s always something for everyone on the Game Show Network.