Do you want your name to go down in the annals of television history? Would you like to have a spot next to those garnering instant fame in recent years, reality show stars like Clay Aiken, Omarosa, Kelly Clarkson, David Cook and Survivor's Richard Hatch? If so, continue reading this guide on how to become a reality TV star.

• For aspiring actors, actresses, comedians, musicians and other performers, today's entertainment spectrum provides many more opportunities than in the past. Stars are made into overnight sensations, even if they do not have the same staying power as they once did. Most of these stars capture the world's attention via the reality TV circuit on shows like American Idol and Survivor and The Biggest Loser. If you want to become the next household name, continue reading this guide on how to become a reality TV star.

Season 1 of the Apprentice (Creative Commons photo by ping ping)

• There are many different types of reality tv shows to consider before beginning the often long and drawn out application process. These include:

1. Documentary style reality shows. These shows often follow people around in a living environment or focus on their career. Popular shows of this sort include: The Real World and Big Brother.
2. Elimination or Game show reality programs. These include a reality competition format and spotlight such shows as Dancing with the Stars and American Idol.
3. Self-improvement or makeover shows. These include shows like The Biggest Loser and Extreme Makeover.

• Once you know the show or shows you want to star in, it is time to audition. Each show will have its own auditioning process for you to follow, so go to the official website for the show you are interested in starring in and find out further information. Typically, you will need to:

1. Send in an audition tape. If producers like you they may want you to come into the studio and audition for them live.
2. Sometimes shows will go on the road and hold auditions in several cities. This is the case for shows such as American Ido, Deal or No Deal and Last Comic Standing.

• No matter what show you are auditioning for, you will want to leave a lasting impression on producers or casting agents. You should:

1. Show lots of personality
2. Try and stand out from all the rest. Depending on the show, you may want to wear something that sets you apart like a wild hat or funky glasses. Capitalize on any of your idiosyncrasies. You may not get cast on the show, but you might at least get featured on it.
3. Share a compelling story
4. Convince them why you are the best candidate for the show

• Even if you don't win, the key to becoming a reality tv star is to leave a lasting impression on both the show's producers and the audience. Once you are actually on the show you need to:

1. Develop a strategy
2. Depending on the show, you may want to form alliances
3. Know when to capitalize on alliances and when it is necessary to break them
4. Understand compelling drama. America always loves a good fight, so don't be afraid to extend your claws when necessary.
5. Utilizes your strengths, and if necessary exploit others weaknesses

• Do you think you have what it takes to capture the hearts of America? Maybe your talent is more geared towards getting under people's skin. Either way, if you follow the above guidelines you may find yourself amongst those other reality tv stars that have found success overnight.

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