Filmmaker Outreach: Getting the Most out of Social Media

Last week I discussed networking with other people. One method of doing so is via social networking on the web. While this isn't the most effective method of networking, it is becoming the most prevalent. I regularly see filmmakers use social media sites in ways that don't benefit them, and in all likelihood hurt their reputation. The most important tip I can give is the always maintain a level of professionalism. The internet is written in ink, and not all employers, investors, or even colleagues will like what they read.

Here are a few ways to maximize your potential with Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter.

Facebook is the most widely used social networking site, with over 500 million users. It is used in many in-person social interactions as a conversation piece, and has also affected many peoples lives. In order to maximize the potential of this resource, you must consider what you're doing.

1. Pages are a Producer's Best Friend: Actors use them, Networks use them, and Studios use them, why aren't you? A "Page" is one of the best, and free, resources available to a filmmaker that has created something. I'm using it to promote one of my films. Pages help you establish a fanbase, and analyze who is coming to your page so that you can promote more effectively.
2. Integration/Aggregation of Information: One of the few applications that I use on Facebook is Twitter. I have my twitter feed set to automatically post to my Facebook profile. This works out great as I can post once, and have it land on multiple platforms, with the same engaging information. Content is king, so share it with others.
3. Mobile: Get Facebook on your phone; it's that simple. The ease in which you can respond to someone else's questions or comments when Facebook is sitting in your pocket or purse makes this almost a no-brainer. Most people have smartphones at this point. While I haven't found a great Facebook app, being able to check news feeds and respond to other people within second of them posting, makes it all worthwhile.

Linkedin is the corporate Facebook. As I've mentioned before it's populated with many C_x_O types, which means that you could connect with the head of a Fortune 500 company with relative ease. That's not likely to happen on Facebook. Here are some tips to get the most out of using Linkedin:

1. Integration/Aggregation of Information: Much like Facebook, Linkedin allows you to incorporate your Twitter feed into your profile. A few clicks, a signin, and you can either publish every twitter post as your "Linkedin Status," or you can designate a #in hashtag for those posts. Constant, engaging content is always a plus.
2. Applications: Many social media platforms have fun and entertaining applications built in, but the apps on Linkedin are to promote your work. For instance, the Wordpress app allows you to showcase your Wordpress blog directly in your profile. The Behance app allows you to showcase any work you have done. The Box.net app allows you to offer a file-sharing functionality with interested parties. All of these are clean, solid, and work great. Maximize the potential by sharing what you've got.
3. Publish Everywhere: I spread my Linkedin profile link to absolutely everyone I can. I have it on both my business card and resume as "My Website." By pushing people to your profile, that has as much information as you're willing to share, you can generate connections out of thin air. This is the most profession-based website that doesn't cost a dime; take advantage of what's out there.

Here's a video explain exactly what Linkedin is:


Twitter has been determined to be the pulse of the world. With over 140 million users constantly "tweeting" in 140 characters or less, analytics and trending topics are becoming a great resource for companies around the globe. Beef up your post count with these:

1. TweetDeck: The application is one of the greatest Twitter tools I've ever come across. It allows you to blend Twitter, Facebook, Foursquare, and Google Buzz into one. With functionality available on phones, in the Google Chrome browser, or as a desktop application, you can get all of your information through one tool. I've mentioned integration of information twice now, and this is the best example of it.
2. Customize that Profile: Every user has the option of customizing their Twitter profile. Pictures are the first step, which allows you to get away from the default egg graphic--which means you don't know what you're doing on twitter. The next step is to follow people, companies, and celebrities that you find interesting. Your profile and what you tweet show a lot about your personality. Express yourself.
3. Content, Content, Content: Twitter only makes sense to have if you are constantly using it. While most people don't care what you're eating or where you're driving, you can still use twitter to release information on relevant websites, upcoming events, short film reviews, or anything else that offers an opinion on something that other people actually DO care about. Tell people who you are and what you like; and do it in 140 characters or less.

Here is a short video to discuss being a Twitter Pro:


I hope these tips have given you a few ideas on how to get the most out of your social media platforms. There are limitless ways to exploit free resources, just make sure you're always doing it in a professional manner, and to get the most out of your career.