MEDIA NETWORKING

I just went to an event sponsored by BLOG OUT LOUD which inspired this entry. The blog, website, facebook... even twitter. We all need to pay attention to the roll these tools are playing in how we network professionally. Make sure you are diligent in not being left behind as this trend screams forward. I think this breaks down into 2 categories for actors. 1. Opportunities to create a buzz (get attention) and 2. Creating a living resume you can send people to. You don't have to do the first one... but the second one is critical. Every actor should have a personal website at this point. Iweb makes creating a website easy, and there are several other quick "website" services out there to take advantage of if need be. Headshots, resume, video reel, and contact info is all you really need. The easier the better. Casting directors are more diligent about looking at reels and visiting websites and it also helps your agent. It's just another resource to help "sell" you or market you.

I have my work on a big production company website (as a director), but I also have a more personal site that comes in handy. Many times I'll send people to that site first as it gives them an immediate impression of who I am and the kind of work I do. Also the personal site allows me to update things myself easily.

Creating a buzz is also good. I started this blog for both personal and business reasons. I was curious about the format, I wanted information (that I often teach) to also be available (or archived) online, and I wanted to bring attention to my headshot photography company. Read about Alexandra Raines on this blog as well... she created "alex'sinfo.com", another great example of someone helping others while getting attention as an actor. Most importantly, be informed about how people are marketing themselves and try and take advantage of it in your own career.

- Scott Young

Commercial Success/ Shoot a Scene. Edit Your Reel