Game Show Contestant Tips for Proud Parents

Are you a game show contestant or a Mommy? As a Mommy myself, I know what comes first in my life – my child. In fact, just the other day, my preschooler said the cutest thing. We were sitting at the breakfast table, eating our cupcakes, you know, the ones with the red and white sprinkles, and he looked up at me with his big brown eyes, and...

Bored yet?

Well, maybe you are. And maybe you aren't. But I guarantee you, launching your audition with a story about your child – unless junior just flushed Howie Mandel's goatee down the toilet -- is no way to wow the casting folks.

And here's why. Most people have kids. Yes, your children are unique, special, and wonderful in every way – but probably not to strangers. And let's face it, it's not terribly uncommon to reproduce.

Now, if you have 20 children and live in a shoe, you're probably the exception. Ditto if your child has a little game show studio set up at home, collects Meredith Vieira memorabilia, or looks freakishly like Alex Trebek. But use extreme caution.

My own son is so darn cute, I almost can't resist talking about him -- but that's exactly what I did when I auditioned for Millionaire.

The funny thing is that I do think casting directors gravitate toward people with families. If we love our families, it shows. We're real people. We've got something to win for. More importantly, we've got something money can't buy. so count your blessings. I know I do.

But strategy-wise, I just don't think your children should be the first, or even second, thing you mention as a prospective game show contestant. But do mention your children in your contestant questionnaire, or if you're asked by the casting folks. Just don't go on forever about the cutest thing junior did last Tuesday.

And for heaven's sake, don't pull out a big, honkin' wad of photos. Save that for after you've been selected.

See the orange guy on the left? He's the poor casting director who was just subjected to his gazillionth wad of family photos.

The bottom line: Almost everyone has kids. The fact that you're a proud parent doesn't make you unique. Your children might be the light of your life, but rambling on and on about them during your casting call is unlikely to make you stand out from the hordes of other game show contestant wannabees.

Exceptions to the Rule: If your heart tells you I'm wrong in your particular case, definitely ignore this advice. Break the rules, and it just might pay off! Also, this theory might not apply to every show -- just the ones where a single contestant is featured at a time. (Think Millionaire or Deal or No Deal.) In contrast, when auditioning for The Price is Right, this "rule" might not apply at all. And if you do mention your kids? Keep it short and snappy. Funny is especially good. Remember, do what's right for you. And good luck!

If you haven't checked it out yet, this is where I've highlighted the most popular ways to audition to become a game show contestant.