Acting : Social Media and Actors / Casting Director Advice by Tammy Hunt

Casting director Laurie Records talks about #socialmedia and what advice she would give to #actors who are trying to build out their social media:

"If you hate it, I would say then let it go. You do you. But if you have interest in it, be willing to put in the time, and that means daily or every other day. You need to be active. I would put it on my to-do list. Dedicate a half an hour of your time to cultivating that. I think that consistency is key. Just make it part of what you are doing for your acting career today. It will take time. You are not going to be on everybody’s radar from the get-go. But if you enjoy it, it should be a little bit of fun for you and [it] can absolutely be helpful in some situations. So, take the time, put in the effort and think about what you’re doing. Be careful, don’t slap things up that you might regret later. Be thoughtful. Keep your actor social media account pristine and with a focus that is going to serve you as an actor."

"As far as red flags I look for, clients care about offensive content. Stay away from extreme anything, whether it’s provocative photos, extreme political posts. I think that you can express how you feel politically, but it's a danger zone. Staying civil is a good idea, and just staying away from crass, rude, crude stuff. You’re representing the brand in the end, that is how they’re looking at you. If you’re a known jerk online, that’s not going to work out for the brand."

"Eventually, it will help you down the line. I think it’s worth the time.I would say, if social media is not your bag, stay off! Don’t have an Instagram account. It’s all right! But I believe that if you have interest in it, you will be rewarded. Follow other actors. Look and see what they are doing. That’s a great way to get some content ideas. Some people do it very well, so watch and mimic them. You’ll be different because you are you, but that way you’re not reinventing the wheel. Actors have come before you and done this social media thing quite well. Be a student of theirs, get some great ideas, and have fun. But keep it focused. Keep it focused on the acting stuff and enjoy it as a fun break you have in the day."