Drama is process. As an Actor, going through the process of building the character and creating the role is for all of us: inexperienced or having completed a certificate or if you just want to pick up where you left off years after obtaining a degree in the performing Arts. This is all part of the process, then thereafter comes the fun part; you're owning your character in your role and getting to showcase your performance to the audience!
More often than not, an Actor can be thrown off when learning that an audition requires a cold read. They get nervous, they feel unprepared. Not surprisingly however, walking into an audition is an element of the unknown. Cold Reading is part of that unknown. It is reading an unseen script with a director, and the challenge is to make it seem natural and in the moment. It's of utmost importance that an Actor learns how to cold read a script in their own time and space. A cold read is like a mini audition that happens almost unexpectedly.
Now the question is, what makes an actor stand out between the rest? You! You're unique; and how are you able to bring the script alive is what makes you stand out. Find your type, your niche and hone in on your skills. Actors are like Angels - and all angels are unique. Once you find your angel, soar!
Acting is expressing freely. Of course the fundamentals still importantly apply. Opening a range of opportunity in various ways. Attending Acting workshops, it's a great way to Collab with other actors; which could lead to connecting with directors or producers you would like to audition for. Explore other avenues by creating your own content, that you can share on your own website where you showcase your monologue scripts. While you're trying to find yourself in the industry; you're creating a network.
How do Actors pay attention to what is happening right now? Hone into why you are in that scene, in that moment. What is your character's purpose; thoughts; motivation? What are you trying to convey to those watching. Give yourself a focal point; then project everything you brought through your performance in the space you're in.
Of course there's always room for improvement. Bad Acting could be from not doing the necessary ground work; nerves; lack of technique; unrealistic vocal and physical characterization. A bad audition or scene does not make a definite bad Actor. It simply means learning where you went wrong, improving by implementing, and keep pushing forward.