Discover when the reality show starts accepting tapes for the next season. If you're too early or too late with your submission, you won't be considered. Follow the guidelines and prove that you can follow instruction.
Read all the guidelines very carefully. Fill out any paperwork that must accompany the audition tape in your submission packet. Find out what format the audition is required in (VHS, digital, emailed or otherwise) and do exactly that. There's enough technology out there to meet a producer's demands.
Come up with a concept that's creative but very you. Keep in mind that the producer's assistant will likely pop your video into the VCR and hit "Play." If the first few seconds don't stick out as dynamic in her mind, she'll press "Eject" and drop you in the circular file. The first few seconds count most in your audition.
Make a detailed plan of how to execute your concept. Gather all supplies and people (like a camera operator) you need, and set a time to make it happen.
Shoot your project as closely in sequence as possible. Delete or record over takes that you know aren't "the one" to save yourself time in the editing room.
Allow sufficient time to edit your final project before the submission due date. A good audition tape takes some time to complete, so plan ahead.