tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2469939851999718522024-03-12T22:18:37.054-07:00Queen of EverythingCreativity RulesAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-90194579719085159152012-06-10T13:52:00.003-07:002012-06-10T14:02:16.932-07:00<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">10 Questions From A Young Actor<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I recently did a commercial for
Lipitor playing a mom with a husband and two sons. My younger TV son, Bridger Palmer, asked if I’d participate
in a class project. I said, “yes”
and he sent me the following 10 questions to answer. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">As you would imagine, I discuss marketing in my answers. If you’ve been reading my blog, you
know what a stickler I am about the necessity of marketing yourself to forward
your career. That goes for any
career you may embark on, but this particular interview is geared towards
actors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I hope you enjoy it! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>1. Tell me about yourself & the highlights of your career?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">My name is Anne Marie
Howard and I’ve been a steadily working actress for over 32 years. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I’m
the oldest of 5 kids, and was born in San Diego at the Balboa Naval Hospital
where Dad was a dentist in the Navy. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">When I was 2 years old, we
moved to Ottumwa, Iowa where Dad’s parents helped him set up his dental
practice, and where I got involved with the local children’s theatre. I knew when I was 4 years old that I
wanted to be an actress. My mom
put me in dance class because she said I walked like an elephant and it would
help me be more graceful. The
first time I appeared onstage in a dance recital, I loved it! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">When I was 14, we moved to
Davenport, Iowa and I was in every high school production. We did one musical and one dramatic
play every year. I loved playing
Anne Frank in the Diary of Anne Frank and Fanny Brice in Funny Girl. My first professional paycheck came from understudying
Hodel & Chava at the Circa ’21 Dinner Theatre in Rock Island, Illinois
during my senior year of high school.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">At 18, I moved to New York
City to attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and embark on my
professional acting career. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">There are so many
highlights in my career, but my favorite highlight was being cast as Nicole
Love on the NBC soap opera, Another World. I was flown to New York (from Los Angeles) to audition, and
when I got the role I was very excited. I had never considered doing a soap opera, but my acting teacher, Milton
Katselas, suggested that I could hone my skills and learn a lot from working
steadily. He was right. I learned so much working 3-4 days a
week for three years on the soap operas.
It also opened a lot of doors for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Another highlight was
working on The Weather Man with Nicolas Cage. I sat beside Bryant Gumbel at a news desk (at a real news
station) in Chicago and co-hosted “Good Morning, America!” with him. That was a real thrill, especially
after watching him on the Today Show with Katie Couric and Matt Lauer all those
years. In The Weather Man, Bryant
& I co-hosted the morning talk show, participated in a cooking
demonstration with Wolfgang Puck, and rode on a float in a parade with Nicolas
Cage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">And yet another highlight
was becoming a Spokeswoman in Television Commercials and a Host in
Infomercials. I worked on big
campaigns (involving multiple commercials, voice-overs & print ads) for
Maalox, Ditech, and the National Association of Realtors. I’ve interviewed Donald Trump, Melissa
Etheridge, James Cromwell, Vanessa Williams, George Foreman, Frances Fisher,
CEO’s, medical doctors, scientists, and many others. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>2. What is most rewarding
as an actor?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It’s really rewarding to
give a good audition, book the job, and work on a big film set alongside a
famous actor. I’ve had the
privilege to work with Adam Sandler, Nicolas Cage, Bryant Gumbel, Steve Martin,
Eva Longoria, Marcia Cross, Tony Shalhoub, James Caan, Geena Davis, Charles
Shaughnessy, Isaiah Washington, Ed Begley Jr, Martin Lawrence, Laura Innes, Amy
Brenneman, Jane Lynch, Peter Falk, Gena Rowlands, Michael Landon, Dan Lauria,
Sharon Lawrence, Scott Bakula, and so many more incredible actors. And, I’ve had so much fun! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>3. What is it like to be an
adult actor?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I really enjoyed all the
theatre work I did in Ottumwa & Davenport, Iowa from the age of 4-18, but
moving to New York City to attend the American Academy of Dramatic Arts right
out of high school was thrilling!
And by the time I was 20, I was making six figures as an actress, mostly
from national television commercials!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">They say that it’s
difficult for women over 40 to get work, but I’m here to tell you
otherwise. I’m working now more
than ever, and the roles are deeper and richer. It’s also wonderful to receive direct bookings, which means
that I’m offered roles without having to audition for them. I love working with the same directors
over and over again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>4. What is most
aggravating?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">The most aggravating thing is
not to have a crack at roles that are being handed out to the names and/or celebrities. These actors are sometimes not right
for the roles they’re offered, but because they’re well known and will bring in
viewers, it’s worth it to the producers to cast them. It helps them market their film.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It’s also aggravating to be
put on avail and know that you’re one of only a few who are in consideration
for the job, only to be released a few days later. When this happens a few times in a row, it’s painful. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>5. What should someone know
about considering a career in acting?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I have a strong belief
that, if you want an acting career & longevity in show biz, you need to
market yourself and spend time every day moving your career forward. An acting career requires networking to
get the auditions and book the jobs, and that’s not always the fun part. When you find a way to make the ‘business’
part of acting enjoyable, you will succeed. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Know that it can take awhile, possibly years, before you
start working steadily. You may
need a part-time job with flexible hours in the early stage of your
career. Invest the money you make
wisely. Be sure to keep your
headshots, resumes, and demo reels up-to-date, and upload them to the casting websites: LA
Casting, Actors Access, Now Casting, IMDB, Casting Frontier, etc. Take classes & read the
trades. Know what’s going on in
your industry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>6. What would people be
surprised to know about acting?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Once you’re on the set
working, you’ll find that acting actually involves a lot of sitting around
& waiting. Hair & make-up
can take over an hour if you’re a woman, and you may be dressed and ready to
work, but sit in your trailer for hours waiting to be called to the set. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Also know that many actors
audition for fifty commercials or more before they book one. This means driving to auditions, going
to callbacks, and being put on avails, only to find out someone else booked the
job. But it also means that you’re
doing something right if you’re getting callbacks and avails, so hang in there
and keep a positive attitude. Once
you’ve booked a commercial, you may be asked to arrive on the set as early as
5am. Sometimes the day will go
fast, and other times you may spend hours waiting, or working in front of the
camera which is the fun part. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Market yourself to increase
your auditions. Don’t just sit
around and wait for your agent or manager to call with an appointment. If you really apply yourself, you’ll be
able to make a living as an actor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>7. With the unions merging,
what do you see for the future of acting?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I believe that SAG-AFTRA will
be a more powerful union, a union that has the ability to negotiate good deals
for its actors & stay ahead of the curve with new media rates. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I don’t think that we’ll
notice too much of a difference, other than the fact that AFTRA won’t undermine
SAG by offering a better contract to the producers, or vice versa. The merger has definitely made the
producers and studios wary, and put them on the defensive, as everyone gears up
for the first contract negotiation in October, which is the commercial
contract. My commercial agent has
noticed that there’s more non-union work casting now. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>8. What age did you start
acting?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I started acting at the age
of 4. I was in the musical,
Carousel at the Ottumwa Heights Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa. I played the youngest of Mr. & Mrs.
Snow’s children. I had been in a
dance recital, but this was the first time I had an acting role on stage. Being onstage feels like home to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>9. How many jobs per year
should someone expect to book?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It depends on your physical
type and your age range. I give
myself new goals every year. This
year I expect to book 2 infomercials, 2 commercials, 3 films, 4 television
guest-star/co-star roles, and 10 voice-overs. That’s been an average for me over the past 15 years, with
some years being better than others, of course.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>10. At what point did you
consider your career a success?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I considered my career a
success when I was able to quit waiting on tables in New York City. I worked at Maxwell’s Plum in 1979, and
quit in 1980 when I got my SAG card for a Fruit Fresh commercial with the
Cunningham & Marx Advertising Agency.
Waiting on tables was my last non-acting job. Ever since then I have my made living as an actress. That was 32 years ago!</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b> Taking my own advice and shooting new photos </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>with </b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>Shandon of Amazing Headshots. </b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b> I'll have </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b>the new business shots on my website soon! </b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b> </b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #262626; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><b> <a href="http://www.annemariehoward.com/">www.annemariehoward.com</a></b></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-40274432397167178732012-05-01T20:14:00.003-07:002012-05-01T20:43:26.965-07:00Networking with Social Media<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Social Media is an
Important Marketing Tool<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Love it or hate it, you’ve got to do it. </div>
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Social media is not just the wave of the future, it’s here
now. <br />
And, it’s a good thing! </div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s
where connections are being made, ideas are being exchanged, information is
abundant, and work can be had.
It’s time to jump in and learn what it’s all about, and how it works, if
you haven’t already.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Business of
Selling Yourself<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Networking is crucial to running a successful business. Whether you’re incorporated, or not,
you must get good at marketing. We
are all in the business of selling products. For actors and performers, your main product is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yourself</i>. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Start with creating your own website and/or YouTube Channel. This will provide a place for potential
employers, and new contacts, to view your business. It will also provide you with a link you can post on
Facebook and Twitter, which will allow you to drive friends and followers to
your website where they can learn more about you, and purchase whatever you’re
selling. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Although attending events is necessary and networking in
person can be enjoyable, social media is actually where it’s all happening. You’ll be able to stay in touch with
the people you’ve met at these events and build lasting relationships online.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Make Choices That
Work For You<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m going to limit our discussion to Facebook and Twitter
because, in my experience, they’re currently the best social media resources
for networking. Plus, they work
well together. A Tweet can magically
appear on your Facebook page, which saves you time since you don’t have to
upload to two different places.</div>
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<br /></div>
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A friend of mine is turned off by the trivial banter, wasted
time, and invasion of privacy. But
he can use social media strictly for business, without having to divulge any
personal information. He can
choose his friends on Facebook and followers on Twitter. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Regarding the privacy issue: if we have cell phones and
computers, we can be tracked. Much
of our information is already available online, whether we like it or not.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Be Selective<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’re concerned about privacy, educate yourself on the
settings in the various sites, and make adjustments accordingly. Don’t post your home phone, address,
email, birthday, relationship information, or family names. Keep it strictly business, and be
selective. Remember that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everything</i> you post is available for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everyone</i> to see. Potential employers are often looking on
Facebook & Twitter to check profiles, so just be aware of that when you’re
posting. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Limit Your Time<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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If you’re concerned about the time element, limit
yourself. You don’t have to spend
more than 10 minutes a day on Facebook or Twitter to be effective. </div>
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<br /></div>
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“You spend a lot of time on Facebook,” one of my girlfriends
told me at a recent gathering. </div>
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<br /></div>
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“I really don’t,” I said. “I log on and post some photos or information. I don’t hang around chatting or
visiting other friend’s pages.
Sometimes I’ll read the latest postings on my Home page, but I’m usually
on Facebook less than 10 minutes a day.” </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Connections<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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You do have to interact with others to get the most out of
it, and sometimes I will spend more time on social media than I had
anticipated. However, that extra
time is good for building relationships.
It can also generate work.
For instance, a Director/Producer I’d worked with in the past contacted
me about hosting an infomercial. He
wanted to run it by me before calling my agent. I checked out the product and was very interested. My agent negotiated a lucrative deal
for me!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FYI: That Director/Producer had lost my email address, so he took a chance and searched for me on Facebook. (This kind of thing happens frequently and is a good reason to have a Facebook page.) </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A Free Publicist<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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I like to think of social media as my own <i>free</i> publicist. Publicists are very expensive, often charging over $5,000/month with a 3-month minimum. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
With Social Media, I can announce my television appearances, film screenings, website updates, blog articles, and more, for <b>free</b>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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I have a friend who writes, produces, and directs his own
films. He has a YouTube Channel
and uploads trailers and promos there.
Social media is an excellent way to get the word out when his films are
screening in festivals. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On Twitter, Another World often retweets my blog, website,
and appearances to all of their followers. (I played Nicole Love on the soap opera, Another World.) </div>
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<br /></div>
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On Facebook, <i>my</i> friends share the information I post, which
makes it available to all of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">their </i>friends. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Sharing information is an essential element for growing a
business, and you can do it without an expensive publicist.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Good Wishes</b></div>
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<br /></div>
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It doesn’t take long to say “Thank You” or wish a good
friend “Happy Birthday!” </div>
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I googled Happy Birthday images and saved a photo of a birthday cake to my desktop. I’ve googled images for all the holidays & upload the image when saying Happy Birthday, Happy Valentine’s day, Happy Thanksgiving, etc. It always makes me smile when I receive good wishes and I
know it touches others, too!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Retweet <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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On Twitter, I’ll often read a tweet that I think my
followers will enjoy, and retweet it.
Retweeting is a great habit to develop. It’s an excellent way to expand followers and build
relationships. If someone retweets
you, reply with a nice thank you. Let
them know you appreciate them passing on your tweet. They have a different group of followers than you do, so you'll be exposed to a whole other group of people.</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Tag, Comment, and
Like<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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On Facebook, I’ll post photos on my own page, but I’m
careful about tagging. If you
don’t like weird photos of yourself popping up on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">your</i> Facebook page, you can only imagine how your friends may feel
about you tagging them on<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> their</i> page. It’s best to send them a private
message & let them tag their own photos. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Click the LIKE button and give a 'thumbs up' to comments you enjoy. Leave thoughtful, supportive and upbeat
comments of your own, but refrain from getting caught up in a political debate,
or too much back and forth banter.
I’ve seen too many heated exchanges end in angry words. Remember that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">every one</i> of your friends has access to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all </i>your information, even those friends who are work
contacts. Think before you post.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Contribute – Share
Your Wisdom<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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A writer recently sent me a Facebook message, asking if I’d
like to contribute to her book about women in the entertainment industry. Another writer asked if I’d like to
contribute to her book on steadily working actresses, divulging secrets to my success. I wrote pieces for both, and was
thrilled to offer advice from my 30+ years of experience in the trenches of
Hollywood. Next week, I’m doing an interview about
my experience working on a John Carpenter film. I've received many other requests to do interviews and write articles for online magazines. I am always happy to contribute. Sharing wisdom is rewarding.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Information Exchange<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Social media is a great way to stay connected with large groups
of people. Especially those you’ve
worked with in a class, workshop, or production. You can easily exchange information about upcoming events,
screenings, and more. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I found out that three actors I’d worked with on a
commercial shoot had already received their paychecks, while I was still
waiting for my check weeks later.
I got proactive, contacted my agent, and got paid. Networking helps you stay on top of
things.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Etiquette <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Use common courtesy.
Don’t put your work stuff on other people’s pages. Post it on your own page & ask them
to share it. I check my Facebook
page regularly to make sure nothing has been posted that I don’t want there. I recently sent a message to a ‘friend’
asking him to please stop posting ads on my page. When he disregarded my message and kept posting his ads, I
unfriended him. </div>
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Remember when you respond to a tweet or comment, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everyone</i> can see it. If you have more to say, there are ways
to a have a private conversation.
Be considerate. Use the
private messaging features. </div>
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<br /></div>
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If someone I don’t know sends me a friend request, I usually
make sure we have at least five friends in common before accepting it. Sometimes I just trust my instincts
though. You can always unfriend
someone if they become a nuisance.
I don’t know all my ‘friends’ personally. Many are fans. I’m
looking forward to meeting them in person one day. I’ve built some nice friendships since I started using
social media. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Offering Deals<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s a good idea to share something interesting about
yourself, instead of just tweeting about your work all the time. When you tweet about your successes, and invite
followers to check out your website, classes, events, films, television shows,
artwork, music, products, or anything else work related, it would be nice for the next tweet to be a bit more personal. Give some free advice, or offer words of wisdom filled with helpful hints. Post a witty remark, or share something you enjoy. </div>
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<br /></div>
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A girlfriend of mine, who runs a very successful online
business, bought a huge book of famous Quotes. She sits at her computer with a glass of wine at night,
opens the thick book and posts a few of her favorite quotes. Then she offers a great discount for
her classes and/or products, and gives incredible deals to the first five
followers who respond.
Brilliant! </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Help!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’ve read all this and it’s still confusing, help is on
the way! I gave you an overview,
but there’s more to learn.
Once you get set up, you’ll see how easy it is to network using social
media. You may have to ask for some assistance. I
know I did. I still do! There always seems to be something new to learn. If you
have a question, email me and I’ll answer it, or I’ll find someone who
can. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Twitter has a great Help Center on its site. They actually explain how to use it!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Facebook requires a bit more finesse. They always seem to be changing things,
but if you bounce around on their site, you’ll learn a lot. And you’ll find that friends will notify
each other when changes occur. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Stay current by checking online for updates. I read WIRED magazine on my new iPad
and love staying informed about all the new technology. </div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’re still scratching your head, I’ve recommended a few
books below. And, of course, there
are free apps for Twitter and Facebook so you can access your accounts 24/7
with your mobile phone!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Create, Share,
Connect<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Use your imagination.
Be creative. Generate new
ideas. Come up with interesting
ways to share yourself. Engage
others. Grow your database. Expand your business. Meet new people. Build relationships. Open your mind. Learn new things. Widen your horizons. Have some fun in the process. Connections generate work. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Enjoy networking with social media & be sure to email me
your success stories!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; text-indent: .5in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Queen of Everything tips her tiara to
you! </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> Thank you for being a
blog reader.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 1.0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPC-_O4yjXPMujXU1p9ooLSPSbxOpFnQ3owm22B7vSkSHv82euRP44vyg6SJeegnUztbcQjId04rkIqQ_MFWQomrEL6u388FML_GPisunHoEmdnsOlen3soqlx_VF7cAyaIPaLlZ6soXU/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNPC-_O4yjXPMujXU1p9ooLSPSbxOpFnQ3owm22B7vSkSHv82euRP44vyg6SJeegnUztbcQjId04rkIqQ_MFWQomrEL6u388FML_GPisunHoEmdnsOlen3soqlx_VF7cAyaIPaLlZ6soXU/s320/photo.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BOOKS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
</b>(*I’ve read the ones with the asterisks)<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
FACEBOOK FOR
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white;">DUMMIES </span>- Also available in the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #3d85c6;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #f1c232;">Mini Edition<b>*</b></span></span> on Amazon for a
penny! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
GETTING STARTED WITH TWITTER FOR DUMMIES</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
TWITTER FOR DUMMIES</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">*</b>TWITTER
MARKETING FOR DUMMIES</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">*</b>SOCIAL MEDIA
MARKETING All-In-One For Dummies by Jan Zimmerman & Doug Sahlin</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">If you can't stand the thought of reading a book with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: #ffd966;">DUMMIES</span> in the title, you can find other choices on Amazon.com or at your local bookstore. </b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Here are a few other
books that I’m reading right now that I highly recommend:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
IMAGINE: How Creativity Works by Jonah Lehrer. (It’s inspiring to read about how ideas
are birthed.)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
AT LEFT BRAIN TURN RIGHT: An Uncommon Path to Shutting Up
Your Inner Critic, Giving Fear the Finger and Having an Amazing Life by Anthony
Meindl</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
MADE TO STICK: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip
Heath & Dan Heath</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-39607672988420581302012-03-01T19:02:00.000-08:002012-03-01T19:04:14.560-08:00Incorporating Simplified<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Is It Time To
Incorporate?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">All You Need to Know
About Subchapter S Corporations<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve worked hard at educating myself on my finances. It didn’t come naturally, and wasn’t
interesting to me at all until I hit my 30’s. That’s when I realized I needed to get out of debt and start
saving my money. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Meeting my Financial
Planner<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was at a commercial callback, paired up with a partner
named Shawn, who kept looking at his watch. I asked him if he had to be somewhere, thinking ‘what could
be more important than booking a national commercial.’ That’s when I found out he was a
financial planner working at a big firm.
He needed to get back to the office for a meeting, and since there were
four couples ahead of us waiting to audition and we’d already been waiting
almost an hour, it was time for him to head out. I admitted that my personal finances were a mess, to which
he responded, “I can help you with that.”
A few minutes later he handed me his business card, got up to go, and
said, “Call me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It took me three months to muster up the courage to call
him. I was ashamed of the horrible
shape I was in and embarrassed to talk about it. But, if I was going to get out of the serious debt I was in,
I had to get help. It was weighing
on me, causing a great deal of stress, which manifested in an aching back, lack
of energy, and sleepless nights.
Credit card companies were calling and harassing me, so I’d stopped
answering the phone and started to let my answering machine pick up. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He suggested we meet at Gaucho Grill in Studio City and told
me to bring all of my credit card receipts and any statements with outstanding
debt. I gathered all the bills and
drove to the restaurant, pushing through the shame and guilt I felt over
allowing myself to get in this position.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shawn took my statements and arranged them in stacks. He took a crayon from the jar that sat
on top of the white paper tablecloth and drew circles around each pile of
bills. Then he numbered them, with
number one being the first set of bills to pay off, number two the second, and
so on. I would pay them off
according to the highest interest rate and largest amount of money owed, down
to the least.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re not in as bad of shape as you think you are,” he
told me. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?” I asked, somewhat shocked. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really,” he said.
“If you follow my plan, you’ll have this cleared up in no time.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’ve always been a bit too hard on myself, and it was a
relief to hear that I wasn’t the moron I thought I was.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then he looked at my purse sitting next to me and said,
“That purse was expensive. I know,
because my wife has one just like it.”
It was a beautiful Kate Spade bag.
“No more shopping for the next six months.” I gasped, as my eyes practically bulged out of their
sockets. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Look in your closet,” he continued. “You’ve got plenty of clothes to
wear. You can mix and match
them.” He knew I had a large
wardrobe because I had a ton of department store credit cards. Plus, I had mentioned that it sucked I
was still having to pay for things that I didn’t even wear anymore.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re going to send me 15% of the gross of every check you
receive,” he said. “We’ll
open a savings account at Morgan Stanley for you, and let it earn interest
until you’re ready to invest.”</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I didn’t know how I was going to pay down my debt every
month <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> give him 15% of my gross
income. But he was confident it
could happen. “And no more credit
card purchases that you can’t pay in full at the end of the month. Keep one card and cut up the
rest.” I’m sure I looked
physically distraught, because my stomach was in knots and I wanted to
cry. “You’ll see,” he reassured
me, “it will feel good to see the money growing in your savings account and
have all your debt paid off.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then he asked what I wanted to do with all the money I’d be saving. I hadn’t thought of that since I didn’t
have any money to pay my bills.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ummm . . .” I stammered, feeling very vulnerable.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Would you like to buy a house?” he offered.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” I resolved.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How much do you want to spend on your house?” he prodded.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not sure, but I want to live on the west side, close to
the ocean.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ll need at least five hundred thousand dollars,” he
estimated.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Make it six fifty,” I boldly leaped into the game.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay,” he brightened, sensing he’d gotten through to me. “You’ll need to save 20% for the down
payment.” He wrote some large
numbers on the tablecloth with a blue crayon. “That’s $130,000 on a $650,000 house.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yikes!” I exclaimed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“When do you want to buy this house? How about a five-year goal?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You think I’ll be able to pay off all my debt and save
enough money to buy a house in five years?” I asked in disbelief.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” he assured me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And that’s
exactly what came to pass. I
didn’t even miss shopping that much when I saw my savings account rapidly rising. Shawn was right. I already had plenty of clothes hanging
in my closet. When the six month
shopping moratorium ended, I didn’t rush out to buy clothes. Instead, I found myself getting more
pleasure out of watching my savings account grow and my debt disappear.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dummies Books<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m a big fan of the yellow Dummies books. They use simple language that enables
me to understand challenging concepts.
Mortgages For Dummies was very helpful when it came to buying my
home. And, with the exception of
my home, I don’t buy anything I can’t pay for. My credit cards are zero balanced every month. I don’t want to be spending my hard
earned money on high interest rates anymore. And I’ve found that there’s a big difference between what I
want and what I actually need. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">When to Incorporate<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Incorporating has also helped me acquire knowledge and gain
awareness of my spending habits.
It hasn’t always been easy to wrap my mind around certain ideas, but I
keep persevering, finding another book, person, or website to help me with what
I don’t understand. There’s so
much to know and I have so much more to learn. It’s like putting together a puzzle and I love puzzles. So, for those of you who have been
curious about corporations and what they involve, read on. If you’re not already incorporated, you
may find yourself facing the decision in the not-too-distant future. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There may come a point in your career when your accountant
recommends incorporating. You’ll
know when that time arrives because you will max out your write offs and, more
than likely, be earning six figures.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was first incorporated in 1989 as Corn Fed, Inc when I was
working on a soap opera in New York City.
I dissolved that corporation when I moved to Los Angeles, and in 2002,
when my earnings increased again, I set up Queen of Everything, Inc. This is what I’ve learned.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fees and Taxes<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The good thing about incorporating is that you’ll receive
the gross amount of all income.
This will give you control of what you actually pay in taxes, and what
you’ll pay in taxes is based on the amount you choose to pay yourself. Since the majority of your expenses
will be business expenses, you probably won’t need to issue yourself a very
large payroll check. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The bad thing about incorporating is the extra fees. Corporate fees will include setting up
your legal paperwork, which will cost you a one-time fee of approximately $500
to $1,500. Expect to pay a
Secretary of State annual tax fee of $25.
You’ll also be required to pay an annual $800 (minimum) tax fee to the
Franchise Tax Board. The S corp
tax rate is 1.5%. So, if your corp
netted $200,000 and you paid yourself a salary of $120,000, the net $80,000
corporate income would be subject to a payment of $1,200, which is 1.5% of
$80,000. * </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you set yourself up using a bank for your payroll and
electronic filing, which I highly recommend, expect to pay between $21.00 and
$50.00 or more every month in bank fees.
You’ll have higher accountant fees as well, since you’re now filing two
sets of taxes, personal and business.
However, all these fees are business expenses, and business expenses are
a write off.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now, you’re probably thinking, ‘why would I want to
incorporate if I have to pay all these fees?’ But you have to consider that you’ll have more control of
your finances and there are benefits, which aren’t offered to the individual,
such as bonuses and SEP IRA contributions.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Payroll Checks<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You’ll have to figure out how much you need to live on per
month so that you can issue yourself a monthly payroll check. For instance, if I set up my payroll at
Bank of America and authorize them to issue a payroll check, withdrawn from my
corporate checking account and directly deposited into my personal checking account,
I will be required to pay federal and state taxes on that amount. The tax amount is calculated by the
bank, and they notify me when payment is required, which I can do with the
click of a button, while sitting at my computer in my pajamas. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Retirement Accounts<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the end of the fiscal year, the government allows
corporations to offset gross income by placing a limited amount of money into a
SEP IRA account, with the maximum contribution being approximately 25% of your
salary. The current maximum
contribution allowed is $49,000. So,
if you’re annual salary is $60,000, the maximum SEP contribution allowed would
be $15,000.* The money won’t be
accessible until you’re retired, but your gross income will be lowered by the
amount you’ve contributed to your SEP IRA. Think of it as paying your future self.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Speaking of investing in your future, if you’ve invested
your SEP IRA wisely, your funds will grow over the years and you’ll have plenty
to live on when you retire, depending, of course, on the amount you’ve
contributed to your SEP IRA account over the years. Some years I put money in, and some years I don’t. When I have a good year, I always
contribute to my SEP IRA.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If everything goes according to plan, I’ll be well provided
for from the age of 65 on. I’ll
have money coming in from Social Security, my SAG Pension Plan, SEP IRA
account, State Farm Life Insurance policies, and more. If one or more of these retirement
investments falls through, I have others to draw from. The way I have it set up, I’ll be
assured to have <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">something </i>rather than
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">nothing.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bonuses<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bonuses are determined by your accountant and are based on
earnings. I don’t get a bonus
every year, but when I have a good year, I receive a nice bonus. The better the year, the bigger the
bonus. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Business Tax
Categories<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are a few of the tax categories that I’ve set up with
the assistance of my accountant and bookkeeper:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Acting Income </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Commissions</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Business Fees</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Business Publications</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Business Supplies</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Business Gifts</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Professional Grooming</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Professional Entertainment </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Professional Viewing </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marketing & Publicity</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Auto/Transportation</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Your Financial
Team: <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Financial Planner,
Entertainment Attorney, Accountant and Bookkeeper <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I highly recommend hiring an <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">entertainment attorney</b> who will assist you in setting up your
corporation, an <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">accountant </b>who will
guide you through the maze of numbers and prepare your income taxes, and a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">financial planner</b> who is willing to
help educate you in the world of investing. I consult regularly with all of my team members. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently hired a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">bookkeeper</b>
at the suggestion of my accountant.
My bookkeeper taught
me how to use QuickBooks so I can keep better financial records and generate
quarterly profit and loss statements.
Some people choose to allow others to do this work for them, but it’s
important for me to be as hands on as possible with my finances. That way, I can stay on top of them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Expert Advice from my
Accountant, Dan Delany<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All examples with asterisks (*) were provided by Dan.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There are three general considerations I believe to consider when
incorporating: one, the tax considerations which have been discussed in this
article, the legal considerations which you should always discuss with your
legal advisor, and three, the emotional considerations which you should discuss
with ..........yourself. If keeping track of your personal
finances is overwhelming and you tend to file your personal tax
returns late or at the last minute, you are probably not emotionally ready to
handle incorporating. Just imagine doubling or possibly tripling your
current financial obligations. So, be sure to research all three
considerations with the appropriate professionals and yourself before taking
the plunge.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">– Dan Delaney, CPA,
Willner & Ornedo Accountancy, LLP <o:p></o:p></b></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-68823485855040735142012-02-14T12:07:00.000-08:002012-02-14T12:09:39.575-08:00Seeking New Representation<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #000090; font-family: Georgia;">I recently left an agency and am looking to be involved with a well-known agent who actually books jobs. I have been involved in independent projects, some of which I created and was a part of. Is it difficult to get into a well-known agency without having a recognized name in the industry? <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #000090; font-family: Georgia;">- Haig Mardirossian, student & aspiring actor<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Yes, it's usually difficult to get into a bigger agency if you have very few credits and no name recognition. Unless, you’re young, have a unique look, or something interesting to offer. Agents can build careers when they discover actors at a young age. They’re also interested in actors who are creating their own projects, like you.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">My advice is to seek a mid-size agency that isn’t so big you'll get lost in their huge pool of talent and not get any attention. It's sometimes <i>better </i>to be with a smaller agency where they’re passionate and excited about you, rather than a bigger agency where you're one of hundreds. However, it's <i>best </i>to get out on auditions so you have a possibility of booking jobs. If you're not getting out, you need to have a meeting with your agents and find out what you can do to help them get you auditions. Then, if nothing changes, it's time to move on and seek new representation. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">I've been with large and small agencies, and though they’ve both been good, I seem to do better when they have fewer of my type on their roster. Your work isn’t over once you sign with an agent though.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">You need to be sending out your photo & resume and marketing yourself, not relying on them to do everything for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">I started my professional acting career in Davenport, Iowa, where I grew up. I performed in every high school play, and got my first paying acting job during my senior year of high school, working on stage in Fiddler On The Roof at the Circa ’21 Dinner Theatre. This was an excellent credit to place at the top of my resume. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Following my first professional play, I applied to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and had a regional audition in Chicago, which was a 3-hour drive away. I was accepted and moved to NYC right after high school. At the end of my first year there, all the friends I’d made went home for the summer, but I stayed, determined to find an agent and begin working. I actually found a manager first and he opened doors to various agencies. After taking a few meetings, we selected the agent that had the most clout and was most enthused about working with me.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Later in my career, when I felt it was time for new representation, I sent my photo & resume to a few agents that I knew were really good, accompanied by personal handwritten letters, telling them about myself and requesting a meeting. I followed up with phone calls. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">The agent I’m currently with was recommended by a casting director who hired me in a feature film. When I needed new representation, I asked her for suggestions, and she offered to contact an agent on my behalf. This was the easiest method and also landed me an agent that was a good fit. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">So you see, there are a variety of ways to seek representation. Be creative and do your research. I went to the Screen Actors Guild and looked through the Agency books to view their client lists. When I wasn’t familiar with an actor’s name, I looked them up in the Players Directory to find out if they were direct competition. Next, I targeted the agencies that didn’t have many of my type. This approach required a lot of effort, but worked well. Now, there’s so much information available online, that you can do much of your research from home. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Good luck, Haig. Or, as they say in the theatre world, “Break a leg!” And remember: Perseverance will bring you results. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><br />
</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-27279761300129494832012-02-10T14:58:00.000-08:002012-02-14T12:10:22.029-08:00How to Get your Child into the Acting Biz<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: navy; font-family: Georgia;">I have a daughter who is very young and beautiful. Can you recommend an agency that I can trust to send a headshot to? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: navy; font-family: Georgia;">- Jerry Clark, dad from Delaware<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Be to sure to ask your daughter if this is something she really wants to do, if you haven’t already. And make sure that you’re up for it. Taking her to auditions and callbacks will require a lot of time, energy, expense, and often, disappointment. However, it’s incredibly rewarding when you book a job and get to work on a film or television set. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">If you have a local talent agency in your community, or nearby, start there. It’s a good idea to build some credits before contacting the bigger agencies. I’ve listed four agents you can contact in the LA area at the end of this blog entry. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Remember, when you're seeking representation for your daughter, you should never pay any money up front. Agents and managers only make money when you, or your daughter in this case, make money. If they offer to represent your daughter, but tell you they require some sort of fee, turn around and walk out the door. This isn’t a reputable company. </span><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Once you’ve signed with an agent or manager, they may recommend getting your daughter into an acting class or workshop to help improve her skills and gain confidence. This is a reasonable request. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">They will also, more than likely, request that you upload your daughter’s photo & info to LA Casting for online commercial submissions and Actors Access for online theatrical submissions. These sites have fees attached, but it will be a necessary step for you to take. Your agent will be able to submit your daughter to casting directors using this service, and you’ll also be able to submit her yourself on certain projects.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Commercial and theatrical agents will take 10% of your gross earnings, but they’re almost always able to negotiate their 10 percent commission on top of your salary. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Print agents, or the print division at a commercial agency, will take 20% of your gross earnings, even if they’ve managed to negotiate 20 percent, or more, in the contract. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Managers usually receive a 15-20% commission, which means if you decide to hire both a manager and an agent, you'll be giving away anywhere between 25 -40 percent of your gross income. When you figure in taxes, that's about 50 percent of your paycheck. However, this is standard, and your agent and manager won't make any money until your daughter books a job and receives income. Sometimes the more people you have working on your behalf, the better. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">On another note, for all of you:<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">As far as photos go, starting out with a good headshot is really important. It's your key to opening doors. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Jerry has a friend who is a professional photographer & took this photo of his daughter in the ball field one afternoon. It's a great shot!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLBOiUtSml58iQ1D4Z6aH7rgT_eqYsiJL7wnObepeUd9BbqVFb1BDmsLfUFfhgUVQZg1vV3c5_JuggyafQ_cp5nVtiGjsFlwLQV4wntU4lFfjJdoOrWFd1-2dxs7c010oAx4-LMyG6afIs/s1600/Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLBOiUtSml58iQ1D4Z6aH7rgT_eqYsiJL7wnObepeUd9BbqVFb1BDmsLfUFfhgUVQZg1vV3c5_JuggyafQ_cp5nVtiGjsFlwLQV4wntU4lFfjJdoOrWFd1-2dxs7c010oAx4-LMyG6afIs/s320/Image+1.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Addelyn is looking directly into the lens with a natural expression and an energy that leaps out of the photo. Her pink top against the green background makes her eyes pop.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">The photo is simple, not busy. It captured my interest & will definitely attract an agent’s attention.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">When you print up 8x10’s, which is the standard headshot size, don’t skimp on quality. Find a good photo lab to duplicate your photos. It’s important to put your best foot forward.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Here are the names of a few top-notch LA talent agencies that have represented me over the years that I highly recommend. The top two are my current agents. All have youth divisions, as well as adult divisions, and a few have NY offices or affiliates. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Visit the agency websites, find the name of the agent that handles the youth division, and send your photo to them with a brief note. You can send it via email or through the postal service. Tell them a little about yourself and request a meeting. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">It’s okay to send them a message via Facebook, too. Be sure it’s a personalized message though, and not a general message that you would send to just anyone.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">I’m looking forward to regular updates from you, Jerry. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Wishing you & your daughter the very best!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;">Daniel Hoff Agency </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"> <a href="http://www.danielhoffagency.com/">http://www.danielhoffagency.com</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Commercial Talent Agency </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia;"><a href="http://www.commercialtalentagency.com/">http://www.commercialtalentagency.com</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Abrams Artists Agency <a href="http://www.abramsartists.com/">http://www.abramsartists.com</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Georgia;">AKA Talent Agency <a href="http://www.akatalent.com/">http://www.akatalent.com</a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-43781440493568152752012-01-01T10:44:00.000-08:002012-01-01T11:27:51.388-08:00Waiting To Work<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Hurry Up and Wait<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> A lot of time spent on Film and Television sets involves waiting. It’s similar to the time an Actor spends waiting to hear if they’ve booked a job after auditioning, only it’s a bit easier when you’re waiting on a set because you’ve actually got the role. It’s just a matter of when you’ll get to perform. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I can only remember one time in my thirty-plus years of being on sets when I didn’t have to wait. I was working on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The West Wing</i>. A Production Assistant handed me a brand new scene while I was sitting in the make-up chair. It was a long, heart-wrenching monologue. I’d already learned the script they’d sent me days before, but this was completely different. “They’ll have cue cards on set for you,” the PA told me when she saw my eyes go wide with panic. But moments later, I was taken right from the chair to the set, and there were no cue cards. It would have been highly unusual if there were, but still, I was told they’d have them for me. I did the best I could, but the Script Supervisor corrected me in-between takes, wanting the words verbatim. In the end, the scene didn’t make it on the air, which was really disappointing since <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The West Wing</i> was one of my favorite shows. It would have been nice to have been given the time to sit in my trailer and go over the new dialogue. Waiting would have been wonderful.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Most Actors are frustrated by the amount of time they spend waiting. Mostly because they come prepared to work and often have to sit around for 4 to 8 hours before having that opportunity. It’s important to get good at waiting. And I don’t mean waiting on tables, although it’s a great way to supplement your income when you’re starting out. I mean waiting, and waiting, and well . . . waiting.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">You don’t want to expend all your energy before you get in front of the camera. When I worked on the Adam Sandler film, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You Don’t Mess With the Zohan</i>, my call time was 9pm and I wasn’t called to the set until 3am. When the PA’s gave me notice that we were hours away from my scene, I slept in my trailer. Adam commented on how much energy I had at 3am, but I had been sleeping while they’d already worked a 10-hour day with hours left to go. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">The only time I haven’t had to wait to hear if I booked a role was when I auditioned for John Carpenter. I got the call on my drive home that I’d booked the role of Susan in the film, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Prince Of Darkness</i>. I read for the role of Lisa so it was a bit strange when my manager kept calling me Susan, thinking I’d understand that this meant I booked the job. Normally it will take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks after you’ve auditioned to hear if you’ve booked the role. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I waited 3 months before hearing that I’d booked the role of Bryant Gumbel’s ‘Hello, America’ Co-Host in the Nicolas Cage film, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Weather Man</i>. I thought they’d shot the film and edited it by then. I was thrilled to find out that the shooting schedule had simply been delayed, and that I would be flying to Chicago to work on the film for 3 weeks.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Right now I’m waiting to shoot a scene in the Lifetime Movie-Of-the-Week, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Killing Mr. Wright.</i> I’m playing a Legal Expert. I didn’t have to wait to hear if I’d gotten this role because I didn’t have to audition. It was a direct Booking. The Casting Director called my Agent and offered me the role. I love when this happens, and it’s happening a lot more often these days. This particular scene that I’m waiting to shoot is the last scene of the day. It’s 9pm and I’ve been here since 5pm. The Crew and other Cast Members have been working since 10am. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Male actors are often given later call times because they require less time in hair and make-up. I’ll be working with an actual news reporter who I won’t meet ahead of time.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I’ve been to wardrobe, had my hair and make-up done, signed my contracts, gone over my lines numerous times, studied the call sheet, read the script again, and gotten brief updates from PA’s on where they’re at in the shooting schedule. I’m comfortable, relaxed, and well prepared. I brought my laptop and am working on my blog. I visited the set to watch a scene being shot and met some of the Crew Members. Back in my trailer, I return my agent’s call, read a bit, go over my lines a few more times, and stay focused.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">‘Hurry up’ is due to the fact that the schedule can change at any moment, and scenes often get shuffled around. The PA’s get in trouble if they don’t have the Actors ready to go to set when called, so they usually get them ready early. So I’m waiting, in my wardrobe, with full hair and make-up, trying not to wrinkle my blouse and slacks. I want to look fresh when I arrive on the set.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Then, suddenly, with no warning, I’m called to work. And I’m ready. I meet my fellow Actor, who plays the Pundit in the scene, as we’re walked from our trailers to the set. The 2<sup>nd</sup> AD introduces us to the Director. We shake hands and get to work. The Crew has had a long day and they’re anxious to film the final scene and go home. The very last shot of the day is called the Martini shot. Apparently the final shot acquired its name because after the last shot of the day “the next shot is out of a glass.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 13pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">A Martini is always well deserved after a long 10-14 hour day of shooting. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">We rehearse the scene with the Director in a quiet area while the Crew adjusts the lighting on set. Stand-ins are brought in to take the Actors positions, which helps the process go faster. Meanwhile, at our rehearsal, the Director offers his notes and suggestions, and encourages improvisation and ad-libbing. Actors aren’t always allowed to improvise, but it’s really fun to do. I always read the entire script, not just my part, and I read it more than once. I have a lot of ideas about what I’ll talk about and what other questions I want to ask the Pundit. Next, the Sound Mixer wires us. In this case, the microphones don’t have to be hidden because we’re on a television talk show. Since we’re shooting in front of a green screen and much of the lighting was preset, the Crew is ready to go in ten minutes, which is pretty miraculous on a film set. Lighting design often takes hours. The Editors will plug in the Virtual Set later, when they get to the Editing Room. Who knows what they’ll choose for the background. I won’t know until I see the movie. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">It’s over in less than an hour. Four hours of waiting and forty-five minutes of actual filming, to be exact. It went well and I had a great time. Back in my trailer, I pack up my things. A PA stops by to have me sign the time sheet. I scribble my initials next to the hours worked. I got a lot done while I was waiting, and I got paid while doing it. Hurry up and wait. That’s Hollywood, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqLb_lR-Bt0/TwCpVLzQ5LI/AAAAAAAAALk/tLgfjZGTp58/s1600/IMG_1685.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KqLb_lR-Bt0/TwCpVLzQ5LI/AAAAAAAAALk/tLgfjZGTp58/s320/IMG_1685.jpg" width="244" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br />
</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-11186592037872866492011-12-30T14:47:00.000-08:002011-12-30T16:13:52.909-08:00Successful Marketing<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 24px;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"></span></b></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="display: inline !important; line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;">Queen of Everything blog readers are making tremendous strides in marketing themselves!</span></b></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"><br />
</span></b></span></b></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Derwin White</span></b><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> is a Composer and the Owner of DKW Musicworks. His new website launched last month. He put a lot of work into it and it shows! The website has a great look and is easy to get around. When you click on the Music tab, it begins playing automatically, and is excellent! Big things are ahead for DKW Musicworks! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wishing Derwin & his partner, Eric Nedelman (Composer/Producer/Recording Engineer), success, prosperity, and an abundance of work. Check out the website at <a href="http://www.dkwmusicworks.com/">www.dkwmusicworks.com</a> and be sure to visit the Resources page where he acknowledges this blog. Thank you for the plug, Derwin. It’s greatly appreciated! <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Garrett Goldenberg</span></b><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> is a Filmmaker, Actor, Director, Writer, and Editor. He just completed his demo reels. He created a 1-minute Theatrical Demo Reel, filming his own comic and dramatic scenes, and uploaded it to Actors Access. His 3-minute Director Reel is available for viewing at <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k92ogDJIkng">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k92ogDJIkng</a> Both reels required a lot of time and energy and are well done! <b><o:p></o:p></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
</span></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sigrid Holland</span></b><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> has worked in the food service industry for over 40 years. She’s a wonderful chef and has a successful blog called Frage Sigrid’ A Memoir. She shares delicious recipes on her blog at </span><a href="http://fragesigrid.blogspot.com/">http://fragesigrid.blogspot.com/</a> and is developing a television show. It’s been wonderful to share ideas with her and follow her blog! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Marketing is a key element to a successful business. Congratulations to all of you!<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1Bw6hXyRFI/Tv4-SHdkAaI/AAAAAAAAALY/YogLXgeqIWI/s1600/images+2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b1Bw6hXyRFI/Tv4-SHdkAaI/AAAAAAAAALY/YogLXgeqIWI/s1600/images+2.jpeg" /></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> <b> </b></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Wishing you all a very Happy New Year! </span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: Calibri; font-weight: bold;">Let your creative juices flow and your imagination expand!</span><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> May 2012 be a successful year of fulfilling big dreams! </span></b></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-12942264835322474252011-10-19T22:16:00.000-07:002011-10-19T22:47:42.736-07:00WEBSITES - Are They Necessary?<div class="MsoNormal"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">“Do I really need a website?” This is a question I am often asked, and my answer is always, “Yes, you do!” I’ve been talking about the necessity of a website for months, but haven’t gone into detail about why they’re important, until now. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A website is your calling card. It will enable you to have all your marketing tools in one place. This information will be accessible to everyone, 24/7. If your agent needs to send a potential client your info, they can simply direct them your website. Think of it as hiring a publicist, only it’s a lot less expensive. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Free Publicity</b><br />
I think of social media as free publicity. It's a great way to connect with fans, friends, family members, classmates, professional acquaintances, potential employers, and those who want to find out what you’re doing. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Websites are similar, except that you <i>will </i>need to make a financial investment. But it won’t cost you much to set up and maintain, and is free for everyone who visits. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Domain Names<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">The first step will be to purchase a domain name. There are many companies to choose from, and their prices vary wildly. Check out APlus.net, Register.com, GoDaddy.com, Whois.net, siteskins.net, etc. Find out what they charge and do a comparison. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">It’s a good idea to register with the company who will also host your website. I set up my domain name with Register.com, but then transferred it to APlus.net, which is the company that hosts my website. However, it was problematic to transfer, and now that I know I can purchase domain names from APlus.net for a much lower price and no 'transfer' headache, I’ll do that in the future. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I tried to host my own website years ago, leaving my computer on all day and all night, but that became challenging, so I decided to find a company with expertise in this area. My web designer had done a lot of research, which is how we selected APlus.net. They charge me a monthly fee of $4.99 to host the first website, and $1.99 for each additional site. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’ve made a decision on where you’ll purchase your domain name, enter the name you’ve chosen to see if it's available. If you’re an actor, I would recommend choosing www.yourname.com. If that’s not available, try yourname.net.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">CREATING YOUR OWN WEBSITE<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">NOWCasting.com<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you sign up with NOWCasting.com, which is a website for actors, they’ll assist you with your domain name. All actors should list themselves here for free. Casting directors use this site to search for actors and their representation. It doesn’t cost anything to upload your photo and resume, but if you want to include your reel, clips, etc, there will be a fee. I signed up as a Reels & Clips member, paying $6.00/month. This enables me to have my theatrical reel and clips on my Profile page. I can email my this page to anyone who requests my information by simply attaching a link. My NOWCasting.com profile page gives the recipient the ability to view my photos, resume, representation, personal website URL, email address, bio, and theatrical reel. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">NOWCasting.com offers a variety of services at a range of prices, including designing your own website. Depending on how fast you make decisions, you can have your website up and running within a few hours. They have dozens of great template designs to choose from, and your website can be as detailed as you’d like. The down side is that, more than likely, your name won’t appear at the top of the search list when someone googles your name. You will also have a longer URL address on your business card, which will look like this: www.nowcasting.com/yourname.com versus the simpler and nicer looking www.yourname.com. Still, for $21.00/month, it may be the easiest and most affordable thing to do. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">siteskins.net<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">This is a very cool website design company that I just learned about from a make-up artist on a recent photo shoot. She highly recommended them for creating your own website. It’s free to set up your site; you just pay $7.95-$19.95/month for them to host it. It’s a good value, and I visited the new website she created for herself and was very impressed. She has a huge amount of information there, including hundreds of wedding photos and videos, for $19.95/month. She mentioned that they were extremely helpful when she got stuck and called for advice. They also offer domain names at a very reasonable price. I highly recommend purchasing your domain from the same place that will be hosting your site. As I said before, transferring your domain name can be challenging, and you want to avoid a severe headache or migraine. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">iWeb<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have a Mac, and have purchased iWorks, you can create a website using iWeb. However, I attempted this and found the design choices too limiting. You may have better luck.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Template Designs<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you’re computer savvy, you can chose a template, from one of many websites offering a selection of designs, and design your own site from scratch. Once you’ve uploaded all your photos, clips, reels, and resume, you’ll need to know the secrets of how to place yourself at the top of the search engine list when someone googles your name. You don’t want people to have to search through pages of listings trying to find you. The goal is to be the first listing when googled.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">You may be tempted to design your website in Flash, but I would recommend avoiding it, simply because iPhone users won’t have accessibility to your website. Many business people are on the go these days, and they’re accessing information via smart phones, so keep this in mind. How will your website look on a smart phone versus a computer? Until Apple and Flash stop feuding, you’re better off designing your site so everyone can view it. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hiring a Web Designer<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have the funds to hire a web designer, I highly recommend it. This is the best option for getting exactly what you want. Ask around and find out who your friends have used and if they’d recommend them. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Do your research before you call the web designer. View other websites, and make note of what you like and dislike about those sites. Note the simplicity, the ease of getting around on the site, color scheme, layout, tabs, pages, and other design aspects that speak to you. When you’re prepared, make your call. Share this information with your web designer. The more specific you can be about what you want, the easier it will be to collaborate. You’ll pool your ideas to come up with something original that is unique to you. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">A voice-over actress I know had an artistic friend create a cartoon caricature of her as Samantha from Bewitched. Her website even has the Bewitched theme music, and it’s fun to navigate. The ideas are limitless. However, what you come up with may require a lot of time and energy, and will depend on your resources. You’ll need to gather your photos, resume, reels, video clips, write a bio, and write your own text. You’ll have to make decisions on how many pages you want, where to place things, what font you want to use, and the overall look of your site. It’s an extremely creative process, and it will be rewarding to see it evolving and taking shape. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A Temporary Home Page<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Have your web designer create a temporary Home page while you’re developing the site. The creative process could take weeks, or months, depending on how involved it is and how much content you’re uploading. Keep your temporary Home page simple. Include your name, photo, and contact info, and let the visitor know that your website is Coming Soon or Under Construction. You won’t be giving out your website address until you’re ready to launch, but this will be nice for those who search for you before the site is ready. This step isn’t imperative, but it shouldn’t cost you any extra.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Website Servers and Hosts<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once your website has been created and is ready to launch, you’ll need to find a host, which we discussed earlier. There are a lot of great choices out there. Hopefully you selected your domain name from the same company who will be hosting your site, but if that wasn’t possible, you’ll need to go through the transfer process. This will, more than likely, require some assistance from the company who will be hosting your website. If you hired a web designer, they’ll know how to do all of this.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Launching Your Website<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once your website is completed and ready to launch, make a big announcement. Tell everyone! Post your new website on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, MySpace, LinkedIn, and other social media sites. Upload it to casting services like LA Casting, Actors Access, and the Casting Frontier. Mention it anywhere and everywhere you can think of! Email the link to all your friends and ask them to share it with others. Be sure to include your new website on your business cards, and hand your cards out wherever you go. Design a postcard announcing your new website, get them printed up, and send them out! </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Keep Your Website Updated <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you’re not managing your website yourself, make sure you’ve discussed expenses with your web designer. They may teach you how to make changes on your own, which is normally included in the initial fee. I know a great web designer who charges $3,000 to design your site, but all future updates are included in that fee, and he teaches you how to make changes on your own. Every website that he has designed looks amazing, and was well worth the investment. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Landing one big job can potentially reimburse you for all your web design expenses. That happened for me. Shortly after I’d launched my new site, I was booked on an infomercial, and the director told me he was impressed with my website and that it was a factor in landing me the job. He had access to my reels, resume, photos, and other info that helped him make his casting decision. Although it’s hard to gauge who is actually viewing your site, you’ll know, because people will tell you. Be sure to set up an email link on your site so your viewers are able to contact you directly. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I update my website frequently. My web designer is a friend. I paid him an initial design fee and am charged on an hourly basis for the changes I make. I email him updates, additions, deletions, new video footage, and new photos, and he bills me every few months or so. This morning I emailed him, asking if he could put my October Newsletter link on the Home page. He had it done within the hour. A few days before that, I decided to include my Host reel on my Video page (as well as the Host page where it already exists) and he had it done the same day. He also edits my theatrical, host, and commercial reels, which are constantly being updated, and keeps me at the top of the google search. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Knowing What You’re Getting Into<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Make sure you understand the agreement that you enter into with your web designer. A flat rate could run you anywhere from $750 to $4,000 or more, depending on the amount of time and work involved. You may be able to find a friend who can help you, or is willing to charge a lot less. Maybe you can make a trade with someone. Whatever the expense, this investment is a good one. It’s also completely tax deductible! Your website is an integral part of your Business Marketing.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Business Can Be Creative<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Artists tend to lack business skills. Acting is so much fun that they can’t be bothered with the ‘business’ of acting. As I’ve said before, marketing is essential, and building your website can be very creative. You’ll be making decisions that are design related and artistic in nature. I found that writing my own text, bio, and photo descriptions, really made me hone in on what I was contributing to the world as an artist. It was also rewarding to see a body of work take shape before my eyes, revealing years of experience. Now it’s all in one place where I can easily share it with others. It’s accessible 24/7 to casting directors, agents, potential employers, directors, producers, fans, friends, family, classmates, and anyone who’s interested.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Congratulations!<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you’ve purchased your domain name, created your website, found a host, and launched the site, pop the cork on a nice bottle of bubbly and celebrate! You have your own website! Tell everyone!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">All Questions Welcome<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you have any questions, feel free to ask. And remember: Marketing is the key to your success!<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-58839004873207391992011-10-03T12:58:00.000-07:002011-10-03T12:59:03.700-07:00Agents - Do You Really Need One?<div class="MsoNormal">I love my agents. All of them. I work with three Talent Agencies in Los Angeles who represent me for film, television, theatre, commercials, hosting, voice-over, internet and print. I also have an agent in San Diego, Colorado and on the East coast. Do I think they’re all necessary? Yes, and here’s why.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agents Get You Work<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">First of all, agents only make money when you make money, so it’s in their best interest to get you, and all their other clients, work. Agents have access to casting directors and will be able to get you auditions that you can’t get on your own. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agents Negotiate Bookings<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">When it comes to negotiating, I’ve found that it’s good to let the agent handle the client, and not get involved in the negotiations. If I receive a direct call from the casting director or client and they start talking about money, I refer them to my agent, stating that my agent handles the financial stuff. That way, my agent can be the ‘bad guy’ asking for more money, while I remain the ‘good guy’ who shows up to work with a big smile. However, I enjoy the phone calls from my agent telling me where they’re at in the negotiation process. In the beginning it was difficult to know a booking could potentially be lost, but I’ve always allowed my agents to do their job, deferring to their expertise in the art of negotiating. After all, that’s why they’re there, to do the very best that they can for you.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The amount of money you’ll make when you book a television job will depend on whether the role is a co-star, guest star, or series regular, your last quote, and how much money is in the budget. If it’s a feature film, your rate will depend on whether the feature is an independent or studio film, your last quote (if you have one), and the money available. Webisodes (short episodes for internet) fluctuate wildly, commanding larger fees for name talent. Commercials sometimes vary in pay as well, although most SAG and AFTRA session fees are standard. Non-union commercials usually pay less, but not always. Hosting jobs are all over the map. If residuals are negotiated for infomercials, it’s at a much higher rate than commercials, and if back end is negotiated, you could be an extremely wealthy individual, if the product does well. Notice there are a lot of ‘if’s’ in that sentence. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agent Commissions – They Only Get Paid When You Get Paid<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">The Agent almost always gets their commission on top of whatever they’re able to negotiate for the job you booked, and normally that’s 10%. Print is different. Agents take 20% out of your paycheck, whether they negotiate an extra 20% on top of your salary, or not. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Whether the agent’s commission comes out of your paycheck or not, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">they’re</i> not making money if <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you’re </i>not making money. Consider the fact that they have access to casting directors you don’t, and can get you the auditions you need to book jobs; it’s the best 10-20% you’ll ever spend.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt;">How To Get An Agent <o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Personal Contacts<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Think about who you know. You may have contacts who are able to open doors for you. Maybe you have a family member in the business, or friends in the industry who can assist you in getting appointments. I got my recent theatrical agent because a casting director, who had cast me in two different projects, opened a door for me. She made a phone call to the agent and recommended me. Prior to that, most agents I’ve worked with were acquired by writing cold letters, or by sending a headshot and resume to an agent recommended by a friend. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">An Approach That Worked For Me<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Here’s how I got one of my first theatrical agents in Los Angeles. I went to SAG and sat in a small room filled with stacks of big directories. I knew the agents I wanted to target because I had read about them in the Ross Reports (which has been renamed Call Sheet) and in guides at the Samuel French Bookstore. I looked up the agent client lists in the directories. If I didn’t recognize an actor’s name, I wrote it down, and then looked up the actor in the Player’s Directory. With all that information gathered in my notebook, I went home and wrote letters to the agents that didn’t have actresses similar to me. I made sure that they weren’t representing five of my type already, and preferably only one of me, or even better, none. In my letter, I told the agent a little about myself. I wrote about how I was from Ottumwa, Iowa and the oldest of five kids. I mentioned that I had been onstage since I was four years old, the names of acting teachers I’d studied with, and recent plays I’d been in. I said I would be calling them to set up an appointment, and that I would bring in my demo reel when we met. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">That approach worked well for me. I have fond memories of receiving a response from the Gersh Agency, who have always been kind and encouraging to actors over the years, even in the face of rejection. I haven’t worked with them, but they actually took the time to pick up the phone, call me, and say, “Thank you for your submission, but we’re not taking on any new talent at this time. Stay in touch and let us know what you’re doing.” It was so classy, and such a nice thing to do. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cold Calls<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Some agents may not respond or even take your call, but<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> do</i> call them. The worst thing they can say is “no, we’re not interested” or “don’t call us, we’ll call you.” At least you’ll know where you stand. If you hand-deliver your headshots, you may run into one of the agents in the elevator, or build a relationship with the receptionist which could be very helpful. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Social Media<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">There are a lot of other ways to connect. Social Media, like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, are good ways to get the word out about what you’re doing, and that you’re seeking representation. Make requests. Ask friends and teachers if they know someone they could recommend. If you’re not doing theatre, maybe you’d enjoy doing stand-up, improvisation, or making YouTube videos to get your work seen. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Networking<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">A website is essential. It should include your headshots, resume, bio, demo reel, and appear at the top of the Google list when your name is searched. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">You’ll need a business card to hand out everywhere you go. It should include your photo, website, email address, and phone number. For every card you hand out, be sure to collect a card. You never know who you’re going to run into, or where you’ll meet. I met a representative of Survivor waiting in a movie theatre line in Marina del Rey. She gave me her professional business card which directed me to their website. At the time, I wasn’t thrilled about reality shows, but they’re here to stay, and they’ve made many unknowns famous. Look at what’s happened for some of those who have appeared on The Apprentice, The Bachelor, Survivor, Dancing With The Stars, Jersey Shores, and other reality shows. Make sure you get out to events and mingle. And, when you do, make the effort to look great. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000090;">Here’s a good question from Garrett Goldenberg, Los Angeles, CA.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000090;">“What’s the difference between a manager and agent?”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agents vs Managers<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Is it possible to have a successful acting career without an agent? It’s not impossible, but it is much more challenging. I know actors who have a personal manager, but no agent, and they get auditions. I know actors who have agents<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> and</i> personal managers, and they seem to do better. Since managers receive 15-20% commission on the gross of everything you make, you could be giving away 25-30% of the gross of your earnings if you have <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">both</i> an agent and manager. Still, if they’re getting you work, it’s worth it. After all, commissions are a write-off, and work leads to more work.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What Managers Do<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">A manager usually has fewer clients than an agent and will give you more personal attention. They may assist you in selecting headshots, updating your resume, getting you feedback, giving you advice, helping you with what to wear, and scheduling conflicts that may arise. Managers will take 15-20% out of your gross earnings. They’re not legally allowed to negotiate, though some do. If they have great contacts and can open doors for you that your agent can’t seem to open, it will be worth it to have a manager as well as an agent. If you just have a manager, they’ll be able to get you auditions and guide your career, although they may not be able to get you in as many doors as an agent would, depending on who they know and how influential they are. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What Agents Do<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Agents will service an entire roster of clients at their agency. They will submit and pitch you to casting directors, set up auditions, and make sure you get the script and sides. They’ll notify you when you get a callback, and negotiate for you when you book the job. They won’t have time to coddle you or give you much advice, unless they get negative feedback about you from a casting director. You may not have much interaction with your agent because they’re so busy, but they’re busy trying to get their clients work which is what you want. My theatrical agent is wonderful about responding to short emails, but many agents don’t want to be bothered. It will depend on your relationship with your agent. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Getting Your Own Work <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Actors also get paid work on their own, from time to time. It’s always a good idea to make your agent aware that you’re working and offer them their 10% commission. If you’ve signed contracts, they’re legally entitled to a commission on all your acting earnings within a 50-mile radius. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hiring Both An Agent <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and </i>A Manager<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve found that, if you have a manager, they will deal with your agent, which means you’ll receive appointments and bookings from your manager rather than your agent. I enjoy developing a relationship with my agent and acting as my own manager. I pay myself 15% of the gross of every check I receive and invest it. That way, I get to keep the money I earn.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Remember that as much as 30% could be taken out of your gross paycheck when you have both an agent and a manager. If the manager is able to bring some awesome connections to the table, it could be well worth it, and when you get busy and have trouble juggling appointments, your manager can help you out with scheduling. Propose working with a new manager on a trial basis, or sign a short term agreement, but it’s best not to commit to a longer term until you know what they’re capable of doing for you. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In the past, I’ve had a manager <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> an agent, and that was great. Part of the reason it worked well was that my manager also had a background as an entertainment attorney and publicist. He had a lot of contacts, which really helped me when I was on the soap opera, Another World, in New York City for two years. Even though I was locked into a contract and paying him 15% out of every check, he was able to continue working for me from Los Angeles. When I received my first paycheck from Another World, I was in shock. I wasn’t incorporated at the time, so state & federal taxes were approximately 30-40% of my gross earnings. With my agent taking 10% and my manager taking 15%, I saw less than 50% of my paycheck. That was a real eye-opener. When I talked to my manager about my meager paycheck, he offered to take 10% instead of the 15% he was entitled to, which helped a bit. I don’t have a manager now, though I’ve recently been considering it. However, I’ve always had an agent. I wouldn’t have been able to get the work I’ve obtained without being represented by my agents. I am forever grateful to each and every one of them.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hiring An Entertainment Attorney<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">I also have an entertainment attorney who has been extremely helpful, going over spokesperson contracts and assisting me with my corporation. I pay him whenever I need his services. Even though I’m incorporated, I handle the business myself, without the assistance of a business manager, who normally takes 5% of your gross income. My accountant helped me figure out how to do payroll, pay corporate taxes, file paperwork with the government, etc. Incorporating is a whole different topic which I’ll cover in a future blog entry. For me, it has been essential. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #000090;">Garret also asked another good question. “Should you leave your agent if you’re not happy, or stay with them and wait until you find a new one?”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Should You Leave Your Current Agent?<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">From past experience, I’ve found that it’s best to stay put until you have somewhere else to go. You can utilize your current agent by using them as leverage to get into casting offices. If you have an agent listed as your contact, vs a personal phone number, you’ll be more likely to acquire a meeting. It’s more professional. If you’re unhappy with your current representation, ask your agent to set aside some time to talk with you, and let them know you‘d like to get out more. Ask what you can do to help. Tell them you want to be proactive and assist them in getting work for you. They may have some ideas. Treat them with the respect that you’d like to be treated with in return. Enlist them to work together as a team. You are essentially hiring them, and they know that. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Marketing Is A Must<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">You may find that you’re self-disciplined, motivated, and a good marketer. However, most actors require assistance when it comes to the ‘business of acting’. The creative part, where you actually get to act, comes easy and is fun. The key is to combine business with creativity so that you enjoy doing it. Otherwise you’ll need to hire someone to help you, or make a trade with a friend. It won’t help you to send your material to agents if you’re resentful that you have to do it. An optimistic attitude will make a huge difference and bring you better results.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A Job To Support Your Career <o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">If you don’t have the funds, then you’ll need to get a job so you’ll have the ability to pay for top quality headshots, reproductions, resumes, a website, business cards, mailing supplies, and the casting services you’ll need to register with, such as Actors Access, LA Casting, The Casting Frontier, and NOW Casting. If you’re a voice-over actor, you’ll need to create a professional one-minute demo reel and upload it to voicebank.net, voices.com, voice123.com, and other VO casting services. It’s a financial investment in your future. When I first started out, I worked at Maxwell’s Plum in New York City, waiting on tables. The tips were good, and every bit of money I made that didn’t go to my living expenses, went to investing in my career. I didn’t love that job, but I did love that it enabled me to pay for the tools necessary to get the acting work I truly wanted. I waited on tables for two years, until I got a good agent, started auditioning a lot, and booked a few commercials. When I was able to quit my waitress job and dedicate myself to acting full time, I was thrilled!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Don’t Sit Back And Do Nothing</b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Actors who get agents and think they don’t have to do anything more because they’re being taken care of, will be in for a big surprise. Once you have an agent, you’ll need to market yourself. That will never end. Even major celebrities promote themselves. They hire publicists to keep their faces in the magazines and on talk-shows. Marketing is key, as well as keeping up with all your online acting resources. You’ll need to keep all your materials up-to-date.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Agents Are An Asset<o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal">Good luck with your hunt for an agent. In the thirty years I’ve been in this business, I’ve only met one agent I didn’t like. He worked at a well-established, high-powered agency and was arrogant and condescending, kind of like Ari Gold on Entourage, but long before the HBO series was created and became popular. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I’ve met a lot of agents over the years, and they have all been hard-working, passionate people who are trying to help you book jobs and get paid well for your work. They’ve created many opportunities for me, and negotiated much better deals than I could have ever negotiated for myself. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So, do you really need an agent? Yes, I would say that you really need one. Or more!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">If you come up with a new approach that lands you a good agent, let me know. I love to post success stories as well as answer your questions.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-9609951500160519052011-09-14T13:46:00.000-07:002011-10-03T12:59:52.606-07:00Getting Back Into Acting? Here's What You Need To Know!<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">Another question from one of my Blog readers:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #000090;">I'm thinking of getting back into acting, but I haven't done it since Jr. High. I was good, too! I won an award or two, until I got the music bug. I want to check it out, just not sure how to go about it. – Mike Rose, Simi Valley, CA<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">The Business of Acting<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">The acting industry has changed over the years. The majority of submissions are now done online. Social media has made it easier to connect with casting directors, <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">directors and producers, and find out what’s currently casting. Although emails have made contacting potential employers faster, good old-fashioned post office mailings and networking are still necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">But first . . .<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">You’ll need to get new professional headshots and update your resume.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">Resumes you can do on your home computer, but don’t skimp on your 8x10. Put your best face forward with an awesome photo. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Headshots<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">Ask around for good photographers, and view the photographer’s portfolio, either online or in person. Get clear about how you want to sell yourself. Watch TV and notice where you fit in. Are you a mom or dad type, business type, blue collar or model type? You may be more than one type, but you may also find that you book more in one area than another. When you choose wardrobe, keep it simple. If you need glasses, wear them in the photo. And if you have contacts, make sure to take some photos without your glasses. For women, keep your make-up natural. Hiring a make-up artist is a good idea, as long as they understand that you need to look like <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i>, not a glamorous model or hooker. The overly made-up look isn’t going to work for commercial acting, and it’s not appropriate for theatre, television series, or feature films. Often the photographer you hire will have a make-up artist that they like to work with. I always go with their recommendation. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Resumes<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">Update your resume. If you don’t have recent credits, list everything you’ve done in prior years. Embellishing is okay, but avoid lying. It will eventually catch up with you. Let the casting director know that you’ve been onstage or in front of the camera. And if you haven’t, you’ll need to create credits by actually getting work, either at a local theatre or in an independent film. The best thing you can do is to generate legitimate credits, which will also give you a chance to improve your skills and hone your talent. In Mike’s case, it would be beneficial to include his music credits because it shows the casting director that he’s been in a creative mode even though it wasn’t necessarily as an actor. You can list your awards, too. Be sure to include your height, weight, hair color, eye color, website address, and contact information.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Demo Reels<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">One actress I know sat down and wrote herself a funny ten-minute short film. She didn’t have any video on herself, so she created it, enlisting her actor friends to assist her in front of the camera. She hired a director and camera operator, who also had knowledge about lighting and sound, to shoot it. The film turned out great and she was able to use a lot of the different clips from the short, which made her demo reel look like she’d done a variety of projects. Plus, she produced a good short film, which is the first of her webisode series. She’s written another ten-minute script and plans to film that soon. Developing projects for yourself is a great idea, and it keeps you creatively fulfilled. Whether it’s a one-person show, a stand-up routine, a film, or a play, keep those creative juices flowing and get your work seen. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Websites & Business Cards<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">Websites are your calling card. If you don’t already have one, purchase your domain name, and get to work on designing your site. Make sure that your website has all your contact info. You’ll also benefit from utilizing video clips, with you talking about yourself, or various clips of your work, or both. Keep the video short and fast-paced. Be sure to include your bio, photos, and resume on the website. Design a color business card with your photo, email address, phone number, and website, and hand them out!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Marketing and Networking<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">Read my last blog entry on marketing titled, Marketing Nuggets: Mining For Gold. You’ll find some excellent tools to help you succeed. Implement them and watch the work flow in! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Online Casting Services<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">List yourself on casting sites, such as LA Casting, Actors Access, and NOW Casting. Search online for auditions in your area. Google is awesome! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Theatre Companies<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">If there’s a local theatre group in your area, get involved. Whether you’re part of the crew, passing out programs, or performing onstage, it’s all a great way to find out what’s going on. Become part of the acting community and share information. Take acting classes and workshops to hone your skills.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">I have a friend who has a regular 9-5 job working as a financial planner, but he also has a commercial agent and once in awhile they send him on an audition. He enjoys getting out of the office and in front of the camera, and manages to book a commercial every three years or so. That’s enough for him. It’s not a way to make a living, but it’s a fun hobby. Maybe that’s enough for you, too. For me, acting is a full-time job, and I love every minute of it. I started in the theatre at the age of four, playing the youngest of the Snow children in “Carousel” at the Ottumwa Heights Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa. Being onstage feels like home to me. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #262626;">Have Fun<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="color: #262626;">The main thing is to have fun. If you don’t enjoy acting, it’ll show, and there are too many competitors out there who love it. I’m one of them. It helps to have a positive attitude and optimistic outlook. Being a successful actor requires work, so be prepared to spend some time and energy on marketing yourself. My recent post on marketing is filled with great information. Agents are very helpful, but you can do a lot without one. My next blog will be about Agents, how to get one and what to expect from them. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Anne Marie Howard</b> is the Queen of Everything. Sort of. As the President of Queen of Everything, Inc, she wears the crowns of actress, writer, producer, director, and exhibited artist. Acting professionally for over 30 years, Anne Marie is best-known as Nicole Love on Another World and Kimberly Brady on Days Of Our Lives. She frequently guest stars on primetime television in series such as Desperate Housewives, Criminal Minds, Castle, Nip/Tuck, Cold Case, and Make It Or Break It, and has been seen in hundreds of television commercials. You may recognize her as the recent Spokesperson for the National Association of Realtors. She’s hosted talk shows and infomercials, interviewing celebrities such as Donald Trump, Vanessa Williams, Melissa Etheridge, Frances Fisher, and James Cromwell. She also appears regularly on the big screen in films such as The Weather Man w/Nicolas Cage and You Don’t Mess With The Zohan w/Adam Sandler. For a complete resume and video clips, visit her website at <a href="http://www.annemariehoward.com/">www.annemariehoward.com</a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-7722468476539847642011-09-12T11:50:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:00:48.175-07:00Marketing Nuggets: Mining for Gold<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;">I’ve been receiving questions in response to my Blog postings via Facebook. Here’s a great one from Derwin White:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #000090;">Hi Anne Marie,</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #000090;">I was wondering if you could impart some tips that you use on how to effectively promote oneself, in a way that would make one stand out from the others. If there are ANY nuggets you could share, I'd be appreciative. I’m looking forward to getting a piece of the GOLD that has helped you to make a living in Hollywood.</span><span style="color: #000090;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #000090;">Thanks! - Derwin White, Serra Mesa, CA</span><span style="color: #000090;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 47.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 11.0pt .5in; text-autospace: none; text-indent: -.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My answer to Derwin’s question is 6 pages long, single-spaced, and there’s still so much more to say. I hope you enjoy this GOLD from the Queen!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>There are many talented performers in the world. What separates successful artists from all the others is the ability to market their product well.</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Think of yourself as a product.</b> See yourself on the shelf. What type of packaging will you use to draw attention to what you do? If you’re an actor, musician, director, writer, or producer, you may choose to use your best headshot. If you’re in a band, maybe it’s a group shot or logo. If you’re a voice-over artist you may have created an animated image with a catchy phrase that lets the producer know your specialty. Producers need to know where they can peg you. Don’t be afraid to put yourself in a specific category. You may think you’re boxing yourself in, but what you’re really doing is giving them a clear idea of how you can be cast. There will aways be room to branch out and expand. Give yourself a specific starting point to assist those who haven’t a clue who you are. Yet, that is!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Create a website. Brand yourself. </b>Whether you design your website yourself or hire an expert, make sure it’s awesome. This is your calling card. You’ll include your bio, photos, resume, contact info, and video or audio clips. You want to be at the very top on the first page of entries when your name is Googled. You may need to enlist someone who is web savvy to assist you with this. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">If you can’t afford to set up your own website with a professional web designer, check out NOW Casting or Argentum Photo Lab. They offer templates that make it easy to upload your information and charge a monthly fee to host your website. Make the investment because it will pay off. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Design a logo. It can be your initials or your name in an interesting font & color, a colorful emblem or company crest, or an image that represents who you are. I used my initials at one point because my agents often referred to me as AMH. Now I use a headshot with my Queen of Everything crown logo beneath it. If you’ve already done this and it’s been over ten years, you may want to rebrand yourself. Keep it fresh.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When I was Corn Fed, Inc, my logo was corn cob. It represented the fact that I was from Iowa which helped me book roles. I was new to the commercial acting world and Midwestern actors were a hot commodity in the New York City casting circuit. Now that I’m Queen of Everything, Inc I use a crown for my logo with the log line, Creativity Rules. It represents the fact that I wear many different crowns, that of actor, writer, producer, director, painter, teacher, and overall creative artist. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Once you establish your chosen logo, stick with it. Use it everywhere. On Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace, YouTube, your website, stationery, envelopes, business cards, postcards, Constant Contact or other emailing service. Use it as your email signature, on your Blog, and anywhere and everywhere else you can think of. Be sure to include your website address with the logo. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Demo and Audio Reels are a must.</b> If you don’t have any video, create it. Videotape a nice warm welcome for your website, or shoot a scene with other actors. Put together something that shows you off well. Actors Access has a service called Actor Slate, a sixty-second general interview. If you don’t have a demo reel, this is a great way to be seen by casting directors. If you do have a demo reel, keep it up-to-date, putting your high profile scenes up front, and keeping the DVD only a few minutes long, with a variety of scenes progressing at a nice energetic pace. One-minute demo reels are currently the rage. Voice-Over artists absolutely must have a one-minute audio reel. You can create one from scratch. Once you have a VO demo, get it out in the world. There are many online voice casting services such as Voice Bank, Voice123, Voices, and more.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Keep your info updated.</b> Be diligent about updating your website, resume, IMDB credits, Social Media, and all your other info listed online or elsewhere. Keep it current. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Send correspondence regularly.</b> Whether it’s 8x10 mailings, or 4x6 postcards, mailings are a must. You don’t have to have anything important to say. It’s about getting your photo, or company logo, across the desk of those you’re trying to meet or stay in touch with. A simple “Just wanted to say Hi!” will do if you don’t have anything new to mention. It’s all about the reminder. You want to get your image across their desk so they keep thinking of you. Whether you choose to send your postcards, or email notices, once a week or once a month, stick to a plan and make sure you do it. There are online services, such as Overnight Prints and Vista, that offer excellent prices on picture postcards. When you do have something to brag about, have a special postcard made and send it to everyone you can think of. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Actors, check out Envelopenz at Actor Tips online. They’re large white envelopes with a clear plastic opening on one side so your 8x10 can be seen. This is a good way to introduce yourself. After the initial mailing, you can send follow up postcards, using the same photo so you can be easily indentified. Always include your website & let them know they can view your work there. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Create</b> <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Email Blasts. </b>Blast out several hundred notices with the touch of a button. I use Constant Contact, but there are many excellent email marketing services available. Some offer free services, others have monthly fees, depending on your needs. Gather emails and enter them in the database. I create newsletters, notices, invitations, updates, etc. It’s a great way for actors to let a large group of people know when you’re going to be on television or in a film. The templates they offer are easy to use and since it’s creative, I enjoy doing it. They also offer classes which I have found to be very helpful. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Think outside the box.</b> Stand out from the crowd. An actor friend of mine got a huge role in Apollo 13 because he found out the casting directors liked chocolate chip cookies. He ordered a box from their favorite cookie company, taped his photo on the lid, and took it over to their office with a note saying that he wanted to audition for them. He got the appointment and booked the job. He even got to go to the Academy Awards when the film was nominated. You want to avoid being obnoxious or desperate, but if you take the time to find out something specific about who you’re going to meet, you can make a good impression on them. With the help of Google, social media, and word of mouth, you can come up with something that will get you noticed in a good way. Put yourself in the shoes of the person you’re contacting. Make sure the item you choose to give is something that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you </i>would be comfortable receiving. You don’t have to do this every time. I rarely give gifts. I like to find other ways in, such as a referral. Facebook is great for this because it lets you know which of your friends know each other. Ask for a favor nicely and be okay with a no. Don’t ever let a no get you down. You’re not putting yourself out there if you’re not getting turned down here and there. Let a rejection spur you on. And be sure to express gratitude when a door is opened. Thank you notes are wonderful and hand-written notes are especially nice. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Be persistent in a nice way. </b>When I want footage from a TV show or film that I’ve worked on, I’ll call the production office and ask nicely for a copy of the episode or feature. They may not be able to help you out, but if they say yes, and you still haven’t received your DVD a week later, give them another call. Ask nicely again. Sometimes they need a gentle reminder. If they’re unable to provide you with material, you’ll almost always be able to find it online. Though with feature films, I’ve often had to wait until they’re released in video stores and purchase the film there or online at Amazon. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Derwin White, who wrote the question that prompted these words you’re now reading, is a great example of being persistent in a good way. It took awhile for me to write this article. His first email arrived on August 24<sup>th. </sup> I responded, letting him know that I was planning to answer his question in a few days. When he didn’t hear back from me for awhile, he sent a nice follow up message, saying he knew that I was busy, but that he was looking forward to getting a piece of the gold that has helped me make a living in Hollywood. His Facebook messages not only inspired me to sit down and write, but also supplied me with the title! <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Keep track of networking and appointments.</b> I have an assortment of 3-ring binders with insert tabs that have the names of the projects I’ve worked on. I use separate binders for each category: Theatrical, Voice-Overs, Commercials, and Hosting. I also have a 3-hole puncher and the minute I get home from an audition or shoot, I punch holes in the sides, directions, call sheet, contract, and any other information I’ve received, and put it into my binder. Every year I create new binders, saving those from prior years so I can refer back to them when necessary. This way, I have all the information I need right at my fingertips.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Make sure your photo looks like you.</b> There’s nothing worse than presenting yourself other than how you actually look. You won’t do well on a dating website with a photo that misrepresents you and you certainly won’t do well when you go in to take a meeting with a casting director, producer, director, or network executive. Get new photos taken a minimum of every three years, more often if you change your look. Be sure to use a professional photographer and refrain from doing too much retouching. You want to put your best face forward, but you want it to look like you. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Go to events.</b> I attend a lot of plays and always run into directors, casting directors, producers, or agents at the theatre. It’s good to be seen, and even better to attend shows that will inspire you and spark your creative juices. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Make a Map of Relationships.</b> Put yourself in the center of the page, and then put your closest industry relationships in the next circle around you, and so on, until you get to the outer circle, which would include business associates you don’t know that well. Find their contact info if you don’t have it handy. Get back in contact with those you’ve lost touch with, and make it a habit to stay connected with those you know well. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Make requests.</b> Learn to get good at asking for help. Find a mentor, someone you admire and respect. They don’t have to be famous. It could be someone who has a career that is further along than yours. Contact them with specific questions. Social media is a great way to connect. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Target the top 10 people you want to meet.</b> For actors it may be the top 10 shows you’d like to work on. Send to the casting directors of those shows regularly. Make requests for a meeting or audition. If you’re a musician and want them to listen to your music, offer an easy way to sample it via YouTube, Vimeo, MySpace, your website, or other online source. I can’t tell you how many contacts I’ve made through Facebook and Twitter. These are the top two social media networking sites. Get familiar with them. When you post new info, ask your Facebook friends and Twitter followers to spread the word. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Find a way to make marketing fun.</b> Most artists would rather be creating than networking, and honing their talent rather than their business skills. But you need to find a way to make the ‘business’ of your career enjoyable. It doesn’t do you any good to put your work out into the world with resentment. You need to do your mailings and marketing with a joyous intention. The best way to do that is to make it easy. Most industry bigwigs don’t have time to read lengthy letters. Just send a short personal note with your photo. Here are a few examples: “_______ suggested we meet. I’ll call you next week to schedule an appointment.” “I’d love to meet you for the role of _________ in the film you’re casting, _______.” “Visit my website to view clips & learn more.” Whatever it is, a short handwritten note attached to your mailing will be sufficient. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Utilize online casting services.</b> There are numerous online casting services, such as Actors Access, LA Casting, NOW Casting, and more. Purchase the CD Directory and the Ross Reports for updated casting addresses. There’s also an excellent app called Actor Genie. Get the trade papers, also accessible online and as apps: the Hollywood Reporter, Daily Variety, BackStage West, and more. Read as much as you can about your field. There are so many great books, classes, and workshops. Stay on top of what’s going on in your industry. Keep learning and growing. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Set up a company. </b>I have my own company that I use for production purposes. It’s a sub-chapter S Corporation, and it’s a tremendous asset when I present myself as a professional offering services. </div><div class="MsoNormal">I know a group of actors who got together and set up a management company. They pooled their money together to cover expenses. Because they formed a legitimate company, they were able to receive Breakdown Services, which is the best source of casting information available. Each actor was designated one day a week, searching for roles in the breakdowns that would be right for their fellow actors as well as themselves, and mailing or hand-delivering packages to the casting directors. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Get an Agent or Manager. </b>When I started out, I didn’t have referrals so I had to get creative. I wrote letters to agents telling them a little about myself, and requested a meeting. Because I was young and fresh out of Iowa, this approach worked well. Later, when I decided to change agents, I went to the Screen Actors Guild, opened their thick books of Agent Client lists and wrote down the names of the women I didn’t know, then looked them up in the Player’s Directory, noting if they were direct competition. I wrote personal letters to the agents I was targeting, stating that they didn’t have anyone on their roster like me and that I would be a good asset and looked forward to meeting them. This approach worked for me as well. The agent I have now was recommended by a casting director. She opened the door by making a phone call. There are Agent and Manager books available at Samuel French. A manager usually has fewer clients and can offer personal attention. Whatever you do, know that marketing doesn’t stop just because you have representation. You still need to do as much as you can to let others know about your awesome product, which is YOU!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Hire a Pro. </b>It takes a lot of time and energy to get ahead. If you really hate the idea of marketing yourself, have a friend help you or better yet, hire a pro. It will be worth the investment. I had a girlfriend who came over to my house one evening a week after her secretarial job at Disney. She sat at my computer and entered hundreds of contacts, helping me create a new database. I also had her help me with fan mail. She took my autographed headshots home with her and sent them out to fans who had requested them. I paid a small fee for her services, but you can make a trade with a friend. Be creative.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Shake it up. </b>If you’ve tried every one of these things and you’re still not getting work, or at the very least, meetings, appointments, or auditions, then reassess what you’re putting out into the world. Maybe it’s time for a new look, a new website, and a new approach. Shake it up. Rebrand. Make a change. Think about who you are and what you want to say. Express yourself in a way that is clear and concise.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Mine for Gold. </b>Hopefully, one of these gold nuggets will inspire you to mine for more gold. Let me know how you do. I’m building a roster of career breakthroughs and I want to put your name on the list of success stories! <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Anne Marie Howard</b> blogs regularly at <a href="http://queenofeverythinginc.blogspot.com/">http://queenofeverythinginc.blogspot.com/</a></div><div class="MsoNormal">Submit your email address at the top of the blog and you’ll be notified when new articles are posted. Check out her website at: <a href="http://www.annemariehoward.com/">www.annemariehoward.com</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-29129963172792073952011-09-02T21:14:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:02:11.838-07:00Letting Go Is Key<div class="MsoNormal"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 32px;">One of the biggest mistakes I made early on in my career involved coaching. I went to a big film audition to read for an important casting director. She liked what I did at the initial meeting and so I was given a callback to meet the director & producers. I was really excited and wanted to be the best I could so I decided to hire a private acting coach and work on the material before the callback. We rehearsed the sides to the point of exhaustion and talked at length about the role. I was thinking about the part very differently now and was looking forward to bringing this new take on the role back to the casting director. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>The next morning at the callback session, I did my audition and felt good about it. The casting director wasn’t friendly, but I just assumed that she was busy and preoccupied with all the actors she had sitting in the waiting room. I had a personal manager at the time and he was really good about getting feedback, so he called her office to inquire how I’d done at the callback.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“I don’t know what happened,” she told him. “Anne was excellent at the audition but when she came back, it was very different. She changed everything and it was all wrong.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">After thanking her, he hung up the phone and called me.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“She said you did something completely different at the callback. What happened?”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“I went to an acting coach.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“Well, don’t ever do that again. She liked what you did at the audition. That’s why she brought you back. She didn’t want you to change it. She wanted to show the director what you had done for her.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“Oh,” I said, taking a deep breath. “I thought what I did at the callback was better.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">“It wasn’t,” he said.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">We hung up and I didn’t see that casting director again for over fifteen years.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">When I finally saw her again she still wasn’t friendly. There were about twenty girls sitting on the floor in the long narrow hallway outside her office door. The few folding chairs were filled with bodies and there were women standing, leaning against the walls, and sitting on the floor, all waiting their turn to audition. She was behind schedule casting another big feature. After taking a long break, where we all started wondering what was going on, she came out of her office and passed out new dialogue. All of the actresses had learned a lot of dialogue for the audition, but she handed us completely new material, and I was up next. As actors, all we can do is roll with what we’re given and do our best. Then let it go when we leave. And that’s what I did. Months later, when I saw the movie, a male actor had been cast in the role. Good thing I didn’t waste time and energy dwelling on that audition.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>A casting director friend of mine told me recently that most actors don’t do as well at the callback session. When I asked her why, she said she wasn’t sure, but that it was almost always the case. “Maybe the actor feels there’s more at stake because they’re closer to getting the role,” I volunteered. She thought about it for a minute and then replied, “Maybe.”</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>When I think about making changes, I think about a high school girlfriend who signed my yearbook. She wrote in really big letters right in the front, “Don’t ever change!” I took one look at it and thought, “God, I hope I do!” I was heading off to New York City to study acting and, more than anything, I wanted to change, and I anticipated big changes occurring in my life. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>Change is good, for the most part. But to make big changes between an audition and callback was a mistake. I’m not opposed to private coaching. After all, I teach private hosting. It just needs to happen from the start. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>Holly Powell, an LA-based acting teacher and former casting director for twenty-three years said in the August 18-24, 2011 issue of BackStage West, “When you choose to become an actor, you have really chosen a career as a professional auditioner.” It's our job as actors to get good at the audition process. When we're put in a difficult position, we need to flow with whatever comes our way. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p>I learn something from every experience. Here’s the wisdom I gained from this one. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">When going to a callback session:</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Do the same thing you did the first time around. (If you’re going to hire an acting coach, do it before your first audition.)</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Wear the same outfit, if you still feel good in it.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Go with the flow. Flow with what you’re given, including direction, comments, amount of time spent waiting to go in the audition room & the waiting room conditions, and any changes that are made.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Stay focused.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Do your best. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">When you leave the room, let it go.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Get feedback when you can, listen to it, and apply it.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Don’t beat yourself up. Learn from your mistakes, and apply the lesson to your next audition.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">Onto the next . . .</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">I did my best that day. When I got the feedback, I didn’t beat myself up. I took it in, digested it, figured out how to apply it to my next audition to make it better, then let it go. It takes practice, but letting go is key.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><b> <br />
</b></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-20715415544993834492011-08-23T17:44:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:01:48.986-07:00Believe In Abundance<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 100%;">I’ve been a working actress for over 30 years. I believe there will always be an abundance of</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> work. I have a ‘knowing’ about that, an inner trust.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">When I hear actors complain about the lack of work available, my response is “If that’s what you believe, that will be your experience.” Where thoughts go, energy flows.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">Talent is important, but I’ve seen many talented actors fail because they don’t do the marketing that’s required. Think of yourself as a product. Then package and market it well. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;">You will succeed if you believe you will. Keep showing up.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: 100%;"> <br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #000099; font-family: georgia; font-size: 85%;">Article contributed to "Making It In Entertainment" (title subject to change) by Jennifer Vaughn, author of "Making It In The Media."</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-10413177590903640792011-08-21T21:07:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:03:10.297-07:00Be Bold, Brag A Little!<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Advice For Actors . . .<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">You have to want to be an actor with every fiber of your being. If you have any doubts, or think you need something to fall back on just in case the acting thing doesn't work out, do something else. There are too many dedicated & talented actors out there who want nothing else & will do anything to achieve their dream. I never wanted anything else & I knew I would be successful if I put all of myself into my acting career. I rallied my parents behind my dream & they became my biggest fans.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">You are a product. Brand yourself & market your product well. Do at least one thing every day to move your acting career forward. Yes, even on the weekends.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">When I moved from Iowa to NYC to become an actress, I worked as a waitress until I didn't have to anymore. The money I made was wisely invested in my career. The job was flexible & my manager was supportive. He always made sure I could go to my auditions, even if it meant being short a waiter. Find a way to make ends meet that fully support you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Never second guess what the casting director, or director, are looking for. When you present yourself, don't be what you think they want you to be. Get comfortable in your own skin & be yourself. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">You'll take a lot of different classes over the years, if you want to improve. Take the best from each class & create your own technique that works for you. There is no one method that is the correct way. Only you know what speaks to your heart & helps fuel you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">I was doing a new play in NYC at an off-Broadway theatre. At one of the rehearsals, the director told me to bang my fist on the table before saying my next line. I resisted, saying that it didn't make sense to me to bang my fist on the table for no apparent reason. Just do it, he insisted. So I did. Out poured a flood of tears & deep anger that I didn't even know were there. I never resisted after that. Always be willing to play. Allow yourself to be surprised.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">A wise old actor once told me that all actors need to learn to "go fishing" in-between their acting jobs. Later in life, I understood the meaning of this statement. Enjoy all aspects of your life. Learn new things, take time to explore, be curious & adventurous. It will all be helpful for your acting. Real life makes you who you are.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Where thoughts go, energy flows. Make sure your thoughts are positive.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Surround yourself with supportive, loving friends. If they're not behind you 100%, they're not good for you.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Envision yourself succeeding. See it, feel it, breathe it in & out. You are everything you imagine yourself to be. Imagine yourself wildly successful!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">Reporters who have never met you will write things about you that just aren't true. It happened to me while I was on Another World. It was upsetting at the time, but now I've learned that it's good to be talked about & that people will say whatever they want to say anyway. Don't dwell on it. Let it go. Pay attention to the good things that are being said about you. There will be far more positive comments. Enjoy them!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;">An actor friend of mine told me that he had trouble talking about his successes. He said it felt like he was bragging. No one is going to know what you've done unless you share it. When you have successes, share them with the world. Be bold. Brag a little! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> <br />
</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #000099; font-family: Perpetua; font-size: 100%;">Article contributed to "Actresses @ Work/Cautionary Tales from the Rank and File" by Molly Cheek and Debbie Zipp (not yet published).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span style="font-family: Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 130%;"> </span></o:p></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-18313577962086673512011-08-18T12:30:00.000-07:002011-08-25T13:38:15.804-07:00Theatrical Demo Reel<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw1BqnveFftZ6uG88jldSJ_FOFQhD7GQHunBxTjyrW9BrEugr0_DyKgikCdYP1T2BYo8r2LnYyG1Y3-zGJnWA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div>
<br /></div><div>To view more clips visit www.annemariehoward.com</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;color:#000099;">Edited by Jim Legoy with clips from Nip/Tuck, Castle, Desperate Housewives, You Don't Mess With The Zohan, Criminal Minds, Close To Home, UNfabulous, The Weather Man, and Las Vegas.</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-27022515021911930992011-03-26T12:48:00.000-07:002011-08-25T12:16:08.305-07:00Keep Showing Up!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">“Keep showing up.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>That’s the best advice I’ve been given recently, and I’m passing it on.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>When you’ve been kicking around as long as I have, sometimes the slumps weigh on you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Let’s face it, when you’re auditioning and not booking, it’s a drag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When you’re not getting appointments, it’s even worse.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But when you’re cast in a good role . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Well, that’s what keeps us all going, isn’t it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>We all want to be working, all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>So we keep showing up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We make the effort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We put ourselves out there over & over again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We hone our craft.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>We’re prepared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We’ve learned our lines & thought a lot about the audition material, maybe even hired a coach.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We’ve found the part of ourselves that resonates with the character.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We go to our auditions dressed how our character would dress, not in costume, but owning the role.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We give it our best shot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Then, after the audition, we let it go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>It’s okay to acknowledge ways you could improve the next time, but don’t beat yourself up if you don’t feel you nailed it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s a waste of time & energy that’s much better spent moving forward.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Market yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Network.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Send out your material.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Build a website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Too many actors forget this part.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>They think if they have an agent or manager, it will be done for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Not true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Learn how to brand yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Take classes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Utilize Facebook, Twitter & other social network sites.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Send picture postcards.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Create e-mail blasts to announce appearances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Make sure your accounts with LA Casting, Actors Access, Casting Frontier, and other casting sites, are up-to-date.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>See theatre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s a great place to learn & be inspired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Even better, do theatre.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s a great place to learn your craft.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For me, the stage feels like home because it’s where I started out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>When I hear other actors complain about the lack of work available, my response is, “If that’s what you believe, that will be your experience.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Where thoughts go, energy flows.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>However, that’s not my experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’ve been a working actress for over 30 years and I believe there will always be an abundance of work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have a ‘knowing’ about that, an inner trust.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I trust that the next job will come, and the next one, and the next one . . .<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p>Why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Because I keep showing up.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><b>Anne Marie Howard</b></i> is regularly seen guest starring on TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She’s also spotted frequently in feature films & has appeared in hundreds of commercials.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Her career began onstage in Ottumwa, Iowa at the age of 4 in the musical, <i>Carousel</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>She studied acting in NYC at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Neighborhood Playhouse & with Stella Adler.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Well-known for playing Nicole Love on <i>Another World</i> & Kimberly Brady on<i> Days of Our Lives</i>, Anne Marie is currently recurring on <i>Make It Or Break It</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Check out her website at www.annemariehoward.com.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;color:#000099;">Article published in "Hollywood Dailies: Behind the Reel" by Travis Britton.</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-75627021251490627462011-02-01T10:47:00.000-08:002011-02-01T10:47:02.188-08:00One Line on the Sopranos - Erik Weiner<iframe width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/CCx8xjHMt_M?fs=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-57381024060226627792011-01-11T12:47:00.000-08:002011-01-11T12:48:12.390-08:00To Woman Over 40<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">I hear my fellow actors say that there’s no work for women over 40, but that’s only true if you believe it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Choose not to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Your mind is a powerful tool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Use it to work for you, not against you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m 50 and am working now more than ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s more rewarding work, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The roles are deeper, more realized, with a lot more substance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I get to infuse my roles with the wisdom that years of experience bring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>And I find that there’s no more fear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m completely willing to go places I’ve never gone before because I trust myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m confident in my abilities and have a desire to share all that I’ve learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I love getting older.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s all in your mind anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I plan to grow old gracefully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m allowing myself to be my age and play roles that are my age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>No need to look or act younger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’ve already played those parts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I’m at home in my own skin and I want to share the beauty of that with others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Young women need good role models.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Especially when they’re looking at magazines with emaciated, surgically enhanced bodies and faces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We need to embrace the beauty of the cycle of life.</p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-67959804604226631322011-01-11T12:46:00.000-08:002011-01-11T12:47:27.102-08:00Advice To Actors<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal">If you don’t want to be an actor with all your heart, mind, body and soul, then do something else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This is a challenging business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You have to really want it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You’ll need to devote yourself 100% to being the best you can be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>This industry is filled with talent and you need to find a way to stand out from the crowd.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Take classes, take care of yourself, eat right & exercise daily, invest wisely in your career with professional photos & a strong resume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>When you find a good manager or agent to represent you, continue networking and marketing yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Promote yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Create a good database and send out updates about what you’re doing & where your work can be seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Talent is important, but I’ve seen many talented actors fail because they don’t do the marketing that’s required.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You’re a product.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Make sure that you advertise & promote it well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Keep believing in yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There will be many rejections, but persevere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Be well prepared & show up at your appointments on time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Do your best in the audition room, walk out confidently , then let it go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Focus on what’s next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s not good to dwell on the past or beat yourself up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Learn from your mistakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>You will succeed if you believe you will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Be bold, daring and courageous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Trust your instincts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Make strong choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Take risks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Dream big, and live your dream!</p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-8207453298202492952010-04-18T19:14:00.000-07:002010-04-19T09:50:45.733-07:00Skydive!<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My brother, Michael, and I decided to embark on an adventure together.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We made plans to skydive on the Fourth of July, celebrating our spirit of independence.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The course at Perris Valley Skydiving School was an all day venture, preparing us for one static line jump.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The class involved a full day of training, where we learned how to get out of the plane properly, toggle right and left, pull the reserve chute open if we had to, and land safely.</span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">When it came time to gear up, I chose a bold red one-piece jumpsuit that zipped up the front and fit perfectly, along with a white helmet.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">We went up, 3 at a time, 3,000 feet high, in a tiny Cessna that was missing a door.</span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The thoughts that raced through my mind, in the back of the noisy plane, were of things left to do in my life, if onlys and what ifs.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Like, did I tell my family and friends how much I loved them, and lists of things I wanted to accomplish before leaving this planet.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">But, by the time I scooted forward & knelt in the open doorframe, I was committed to accepting my fate.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I wasn’t actually jumping.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was releasing.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Letting go.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Into the sky.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Into the vast open space.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Into all that is.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Into the Universe.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The instructor was right next to me, making sure that my static line was attached, and that I made my way out of the plane safely.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I reached for the bar under the wing, shimmied myself out, and held on securely until he yelled, “Skydive!” </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Then, I let go.</span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">My parachute opened almost instantly. </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I breathed in deeply, resting in the whooshing sound of the air, and the peacefulness of the infinite sky.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">The earth was far below and its beauty was breathtaking.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I was floating, gliding, falling, suspended in time.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">It only lasted a few minutes, but it felt like forever.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">I can see why skydiving is addicting, because once you're on the ground, you want to be up in the air again, like a bird, flying free.</span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What a rush!</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">What a joyous, emotional, rush mixed with fear, overcoming my fear, letting go, releasing from holding on, being out of control, silence like I’ve never known before, utter relief upon landing safely, and the pure exhilaration at having accomplished something so daring.</span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"> </span></span></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Perpetua;"><o:p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span></span>I have to skydive again!</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246993985199971852.post-9101276735578961112010-04-15T16:15:00.000-07:002010-04-15T17:47:50.348-07:00Financial Freedom<!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span style="font-size:14.0pt;mso-bidi-font-size:13.0pt; font-family:Perpetua;mso-bidi-font-family:Tahoma">No one teaches you about credit card debt in high school. You’re given one of those little plastic cards when you leave home, and voila! It’s magic. You can have whatever you want. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Perpetua, serif; font-size: 19px; ">I am completely over being a slave to debt. I am completely over having to pay for things that I don’t use anymore and don’t wear anymore. I got out of credit card debt years ago by paying off one high-interest card after another.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Now, I only allow myself to buy things that can be paid off in full when I get my statement at the end of the month. If I can’t afford it, I can’t have it. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination:none;mso-layout-grid-align:none; text-autospace:none"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Perpetua, serif; font-size: 19px; "><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"></span>Getting out of debt has freed me to be more of who I really am. Relieving myself of money worries removed the burden of stress that weighed so heavily. It’s also given me more time and energy to do the things I really want to do. My mind has space to generate new ideas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I feel free, and it's so empowering!</span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00593471094677889190noreply@blogger.com1