[How to Market Yourself]

By Annette Velho-Pereira

[As a Filmmaker]

Writing and producing films is an exciting venture. But if you want more than your mom to watch, you need to know how to market yourself as well as your film.

Julie Crooks, a contract publicist for the National Film Board of Canada, says it’s important to have a creative vision.

“Come in with a clear vision of what you want to do. Do your research in terms of what kinds of films you want to make and where you want to work.”

Crooks says you need to contact a representative from the NFB before visiting.
“Call a producer here (at the NFB) and say ‘You know this is what I’m interested in doing and I’d like to drop off a reel.’ Keep the producer apprised of what you are doing.”

Crooks advises against cold-calling. “Cold-calling doesn’t really work.”

She does recommend networking.

“It’s a good idea to go to festivals and conferences to be around industry people so they (future filmmakers) know what’s going on, who’s doing what where, and who’s in charge in whatever departments so you know who to go to.”

It’s also important “to be around people making films so you’re up on what’s current.”

Filmmakers should carry business cards with their names and contact information. The key is to think of innovative ways to market yourself “because everybody is trying to do the same thing.”

[As an Actor]

If you want a starring role on the big screen, you need to sell yourself.

“The most important thing you can do is get an established agent,” says Alejandra Sosa, communications spokesperson for the Ontario region of Telefilm Canada.

She also advises actors to grab whatever jobs they’re offered.

“You have to take whatever comes your way in terms of exposure. You really never know how it’s going to catch on. So it’s always really important to take what you can get. Just get out there because it will happen.”

If you can’t get an agent, get a demo reel done. Training institutions like The Canadian Film Centre, which provides hands-on training to writers, directors and producers, can help you put together a reel for $5,000.

“There are always directors up there shooting projects (who) really need to have free actors. If you’re part of the film being screened, you can get a reel done. You do it for free but, at the same time, you get a tape of your work,” Sosa says.

Networking also goes a long way.

“Find out from agents what kinds of receptions are being held. Some of the best deals and easiest deals are made over a cocktail or a cup of coffee,” Sosa says.

Susan Lee, a networking consultant and teacher at the Humber Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning, says “networking is important because it allows people to create relationships.”

Lee stresses the importance of first impressions.

They “let people know if they want to continue talking to you or not.”

You never know, networking can lead to future job possibilities.

Your reputation is also your passport into the industry.

“It’s important to keep your reputation intact and never cross a line,” Sosa says.

“There’s a limited amount of producers in Canada, especially in Ontario, and word will travel.”

[To a Production Company]

When it comes to marketing yourself, it all depends on where you want to work on set.

“If you want to get involved in the industry, you really should be willing to work anywhere,” says Peter Gerretsen, owner of Gerretsen Productions.

But if you know exactly what you want to do, Gerretsen, a seasoned professional, has some tips for you.

Film sets are huge. Different types of work require different skills, Gerretsen says. Once your resume’s ready, Gerretsen advises visiting different production companies.

“The best way to market yourself is knocking on doors and having a sample of your portfolio with you,” Gerretsen says.

“You should be dressed sensibly, look like you’re ready for work and understand the lingo. And when you walk in, be low-key. You are not the show.”

Gerretsen warns: “You will get doors slammed but at least you have been to the production agencies.”

 

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