Is Your Online Presence Costing You the Role? – Reputation Management for Actors

Is Your Online Presence Costing You the Role? – Reputation Management for Actors

As an actor, your brand is everything. You are the CEO of your business – although you may have a team of agents, managers, lawyers, or publicists, it is still your responsibility to be on top of your reputation. A successful actor not only needs to be talented and driven, but they must also have a polished online presence. What a casting director or filmmaker finds when they search for you online can make or break your chances of booking a role. Regardless of where you are in your career, proper management of your reputation can take you to the next level. Here are a few crucial notes on Reputation Management for actors.

1. Social Media Matters

According to the New York Post, Hollywood insiders say “more frequently, casting agents now are looking for actors who are also influencers, especially as digital-only platforms such as YouTube Red and Facebook launch original content.” Actors don’t just need to have a social media following; they need to have an engaged fan base. Share positive news about upcoming projects, create conversation among your followers, and repost photos and video of your work. Studios are looking to work with actors who will bring active, excited viewers to their platforms. But, it isn’t only about the numbers – it is crucial to ensure that what you post on social media lines up with your brand. If you’re a “young-mom type” looking to book commercials with wholesome companies or a role on ABC Family, a photo of you smoking a joint at a party can do significant damage.

2. Your Google Search Results are Key 

What are industry professionals looking for when they search for you online? Search results are a critical part of reputation management for actors. Search results of an actors name should reflect their brand, as well as the work they have done in film, television, or theatre. It is critical for the first results to provide insight into your professional career. Aim to only have positive search results on the first two pages of any internet search regarding you or your work.

Positive Search Results:

• Your IMDB Page
• Your Official Site (Updated with your current resume, photos, reels, and press)
• National Coverage
• Positive Reviews from Critics
• Curated Social Media Accounts
• Red Carpet and Event Photos
• Information on your Representation

Negative Search Results:

• Bad Reviews from Critics
• Social Media Accounts with Unflattering or Inappropriate Content
• Poor Quality or Outdated Videos or Photos
• Another Actor with the Same Name (Especially if the content is harmful or off-brand.)
• An Outdated Website (Anything that highlights inexperience or makes you look “green.”)

If search results are not showcasing the highlights of your career, a reputation management firm may be able to help. A reputation consultant can assist you in suppressing negative information and optimizing the content you want to exhibit.

3. It’s Easier to Build a Reputation Than to Repair One

Another essential tip on reputation management for actors is that it is never too early to start! Many actors wait until they are looking for press or are facing a crisis to hire a publicist or reputation expert. Neglecting to build online reputation management into your strategy could cost you opportunities, work, and ultimately, your career. It takes a lot more work to repair a bad reputation than it does to foster a positive one. Start early. Pinpoint your target audience, engage with them online, and showcase yourself as a smart and successful business person. It’s simple – industry executives want to work with actors who will make them look good online.

Reputation Management firms analyze and evaluate an actor’s online presence. With this data, a reputation consultant can create a customized strategy for improving the actor’s online image. Having an expert focused on repairing, defending, and managing your reputation could be a game-changer in your career.

Interested in more tips on reputation management for actors? Visit Repair Bad Reputation to explore our services and sign up for your FREE consultation.