I'm often asked by actors, "What can I do to get my foot in the door...get my name out there?" This is a question that anyone starting out in the entertainment industry (no matter what avenue they are going down) should ask themselves. My answer to actors always starts off with one simple word: Networking. This word is quite possibly one of the most important things a person in entertainment can do.
Networking may come naturally to some, while others learn over time. Whether you are an actor, agent, manager, producer, director, writer, etc...you should be jumping on every networking opportunity that comes your way. There is something going on in this industry every night, whether you live in NY or LA. As an agent I am constantly going to different events, shows, restaurants and hang-outs (entertainment industry oriented) to meet as many people as I can. This is crucial in building my reputation as an agent and my number of contacts. You never know who you are going to meet. I've met some remarkable people who are very important to different areas of this industry.
It's no different for an actor. As an actor, it is important to network with a variety of casting directors, producers, writers and directors. Go the events that host casting directors, find out the hot spots where producers, writers and directors may hang out (of course don't go broke going to these places) and join as many networking sites as possible (linkedin, facebook, myspace, etc...) You wouldn't believe how many actors I know have facebook friended a casting director, which I think it is a great idea. It will keep you on their radar. However, alway keep one thing in mind: Do not, and I repeat, do not come off as desperate. It is much easier to sense desperation than you might think and it's very unappealing. Also, just as important, always act in a professional and courteous manner. If it seems that someone does not want to be bothered...leave them alone. There will be plenty of more people to meet down the line and you never want to be remembered negatively by someone who may be able to open doors for you. And finally: Always have some kind of business card. Even if it is a generic card with your name, email and phone number on it, business cards are vital. Trust me on this one...I've learned from experience the importance of having a business card.
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ReplyDeleteNetworking is tough. I know when I first started out years ago I was on the shy side and didn't know how to talk to strangers. But it is a skill that can be learned and honed. All actors need to constantly meet new CDs, agents, directors, writers, and other good actors. Work is generated through word of mouth!
ReplyDeleteI think the best way to impress an agent is to help him/her network. I invited my agent to a film fundraiser recently and introduced him to the filmmaker. Whether or not anything comes out of that introduction remains to be seen.
Some advice though when networking - don't be a big phony or prick or pathetic. You'll end up with a network of enemies!