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Actors often tell me they’re not using social media for their careers because “I don’t really need it until I book that big show.” You do not want to wait until then to learn how to use social media. In fact, having a strong social media presence now can help you book that big show.
Once you’re there you’ll want to focus on doing a great job on the show and connecting with new fans… not learning Twitter 101. Social media is becoming a huge plus for your career and live tweeting is even being written into TV contracts now. That’s why celebrities who said they’d never embrace social media are jumping on board. It’s not a coincidence that Cuba Gooding Jr. joined Twitter at the same time “The People v. O.J. Simpson” debuted back in February.
4. Social media lets you build an audience for your work and the causes you champion.
It's an exciting time to be an actor! You can actually build your own audience and promote the things you’re passionate about. Kerry Washington has done a remarkable job of using her social media to promote causes she cares deeply about. Social media gives you a voice to do this (and you don’t need millions of followers to make a difference).
5. Social media helps actors take control.
In the past, to make a name for yourself you needed a big role or to be featured somewhere in the media. Public relations was, for many years, the exclusive province of actors with klout and influence. It was hard for a ‘no name’ actor to really get their name out there. Well, not anymore! Social media has put the public back in public relations. Now actors, artists and, frankly, everyone has direct access to an audience. An actor’s audience is their fan base and anyone who can hire them. Social media gives actors control in a business that offers very little of it. That’s something to be thankful for!