Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1157135
ABOVE ALL, WORK BEGETS WORK Actor Gregg Martin says that while it may take time to establish and hone your online presence, the most important thing is to get started. "People get too in-their-heads about posting: 'No one is going to see it' or 'What if it sucks?'" says Martin. "But getting started in making your content will only help you down the road. People are always watching and, even if something doesn't get many likes or views at first, all it takes is one person to see it. Work gets work." M any brands are utilizing what is now called "influencer marketing" to promote products and content on social platforms. SAG-AFTRA's word of advice to performers is to contact the union to check if the work falls under one of the Commercial Contracts and to better understand payment provisions under the new Upfront Use Packages. Be sure to contact your local office or call (855) SAG-AFTRA/(855) 724-2387 for more details. Know your CONTRAC T From left, Casting Influence co-founder Tanya Bershadsky, TSMA Consulting founder Ryan Walker and Riverdale star and macro-influencer Trevor Stines laugh at a quip from SAG-AFTRA Associate Commercial Strategist Shaine Griffin. All were speakers at the NextGen Performers' Digital Stars panel on April 23. OPTIMIZE YOUR PROFILE Performers, take note: The profile page is the first space that reflects who you are, and it's ideal to treat it the way you would a business card with your name, modus operandi and a profile picture. Most importantly, include contact information, whether it's your own or your representative's. This seems obvious, but Casting Influence co-founder Tanya Bershadsky finds it's a common mistake that frustrates casting directors and talent agents. "Most of my day is spent tracking people down," says Bershadsky. "And there have been times I have come across someone's profile and wanted to reach out, but I had to give up because I couldn't track them down." To ensure that you're not missing out on opportunity, include your email address or a link to your acting profile or website. LEARN FROM THE GREATS Sometimes the best way to learn how to make your profile more visible is to study the accounts you already follow. More often than not, there's something a more established figure is doing that's easy to emulate, such as using emojis and hashtags. Digital marketing experts also recommend performers curate their account around three overall themes (e.g., entertainment, business and fitness) to provide followers with a variety of content and to showcase their different skills and interests. BE RESPONSIBLY AUTHENTIC Being authentic is more than just being yourself, ensuring that what you are presenting benefits both you and your audience. Trevor Stines, star of CW teen drama Riverdale and a macro-influencer with more than 1.2 million Instagram followers, makes sure his online persona is in line with his morals and values. "You have your own unique voice and can use it however you want, [but] be selective about what you promote," advises Stines. "Remember, your digital footprint lingers." sagaftra.org | Summer 2019 | SAG-AFTRA 47