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Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Utilizing the Internet to Market Yourself

Hello "kids" ;)

I made a video blog (aka. vlog) of finishing my first feature documentary. It's just cheesy rambling and whatnot, but I thought I'd share anyways.

Which, while I'm on the subject. I HAVE to say that you girls are entering a different age of pursuing acting then when I moved to LA in 2004.

Believe it or not, A LOT has changed from 2005 to 2009, and in order for you girls to keep up with the competition, you have to know what the competition is doing.

So what are they doing? THEIR OWN VIDEOS! Whether it's acting out their own written scenes with friends, making their own music videos, spoof videos, vlogs, how-tos, or just simply dancing to the latest music.

I am a strong advocate for being consistent with your "image" (for example: if you're marketing yourself as a dramatic actress, don't go making an SNL spin-off).... BUT I'm also a HUGE advocate for getting yourself OUT THERE! And in this technological age, there are MANY ways to market yourself, and remain true to who you are.

A couple examples:

- Facebook (befriend EVERYONE you meet on set immediately... being fresh in their mind could lead to your next job)

- Twitter (it's not for everyone, but if you have something to say, say it on twitter! And here's a hint: be positive. The better your outlook on things, the more people will want to work with you.)

- YouTube (if you have a camera and know how to use it, THEN USE IT! And shockingly enough, many people have gotten acting jobs just from youtube videos, whether they're acting in the video or not. Casting Directors can sense if you have a good on-screen presence. Plus, bonus tip: if you have a special skill {i.e. a sport, musical talent, weird talent, something not a lot of people can do} FILM IT! You may just get cast, or "discovered" from it!)
*** If you have iMovie or Final Cut Pro and don't know how to edit (and you're like me and hate reading manuals) I suggest watching tutorials on YouTube! That's how I learned most of everything I know about editing.


IMDb is a HUGE marketing tool. When you get your name on IMDb, INSTANTLY put an avatar (profile picture) up, it'll be the best $35 you ever spend online. Just make sure it's a good picture, because it's another $35 if you want to change it. Also, I would highly suggest getting IMDBpro because you get special features such as "in production" castings, job listings, and career advice, as well as access to all message boards and just overall better information so you know the ins an outs of what's going on. Totally worth it.


And eventually you'll want to get your own website (www.yourname.com). Why? Just because it looks more professional. No other reason, really. Well, there are some reasons: putting up all your photos, resume, demo reel(s), contact info, bio... it's good to have, when you have enough to put on it.

If you need a reliable website company: I got mine (CassieJaye.com) through RobPadgett.biz. Great prices, and he's on top of things. I've been with him for almost 3 years and he's never let me down. I'd definitely recommend him.

Good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

- Cassie