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What is the best networking for potential actors and writers that is better than LinkedIn?
I’m currently creating a list of schools to apply to. What are the best networking apps for potential actors and writers to beyond that’s not LinkedIn?
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Lawrence’s Answer
Hi Juliana! The most significant networking for an actor is when you're on set, in a show or, especially for a writer, when you're in class. You gotta be out there working and working your craft. You also need to be aware that even when you're working, you're always networking because you're always on the lookout for the next gig. It's not easy. The constant networking or "schmoozing" is a full-time job. It's exhilarating. It's exhausting. It's 100% necessary.
I hope this helps even just a little bit.
Good luck!!
I hope this helps even just a little bit.
Good luck!!
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Juliana
Updated
Rafael’s Answer
Hi Juliana! For actors and writers looking to network beyond LinkedIn, Stage 32 provides a dedicated platform to connect with industry peers and collaborate on projects, while Backstage offers casting calls and job opportunities specifically for actors. The Black List is a valuable resource for screenwriters, allowing them to upload scripts, receive feedback, and potentially gain exposure to industry professionals. Joining the Writer's Guild of America provides access to events, workshops, and resources tailored to writers in the entertainment industry. By utilizing these networking options, actors and writers can expand their connections and increase their chances of finding opportunities!
Updated
John’s Answer
The following sites are interactive in real-time, having developed communities of like-minded, goal-orientated individuals that can create that vitally important community you can surround yourself with and participate in. Developing networking skills within the industry is a necessity, for this action formulates long-lasting relationships based in the value of what you bring to the networking attempt as well as what you receive from other individuals. Working in the industry is the best teacher. It allows for a "hands-on" experience, interacting with other professionals and learning as you work, but these sites can give you a leg up. Stage 32 Education & Networking Website, Coverfly, and Backstage. Good luck!
Thank you, John!
Juliana
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Juliana!
For actors and writers, there are several networking platforms that cater specifically to the entertainment industry, offering more tailored opportunities than LinkedIn. Some of the best options include:
Stage32: Often referred to as "LinkedIn for creatives," Stage32 is a dedicated networking platform for filmmakers, writers, actors, and other industry professionals. It allows you to connect with peers, find collaborators, and even pitch scripts or get feedback from established professionals.
Backstage: This is a well-known platform for actors, but it's also valuable for writers looking to connect with talent. Backstage provides casting calls, audition listings, and an opportunity to network with directors and producers looking for actors and writers. You can build a profile to showcase your work and get noticed by industry insiders.
IMDb Pro: If you're serious about making connections in the film and TV industry, IMDb Pro is a powerful tool. It gives you access to contact information for actors, agents, managers, and producers, making it easier to reach out and build relationships. You can also see what projects are currently in production and target those for networking.
Shooting People: This is a network specifically for independent filmmakers, writers, and actors. It’s a great place to find collaborators for indie projects and get involved in the grassroots filmmaking community. There are regular listings for casting calls, crew needs, and screenwriting competitions.
The Black List: For writers, The Black List is an excellent platform to get your scripts noticed by industry professionals. You can upload your screenplay for evaluation and, if it receives high ratings, it can attract the attention of producers and agents. Many successful scripts have been discovered this way.
Each of these platforms is designed with creatives in mind, offering more industry-specific connections and opportunities than LinkedIn, making them better suited for actors and writers trying to break into film and TV.
For actors and writers, there are several networking platforms that cater specifically to the entertainment industry, offering more tailored opportunities than LinkedIn. Some of the best options include:
Stage32: Often referred to as "LinkedIn for creatives," Stage32 is a dedicated networking platform for filmmakers, writers, actors, and other industry professionals. It allows you to connect with peers, find collaborators, and even pitch scripts or get feedback from established professionals.
Backstage: This is a well-known platform for actors, but it's also valuable for writers looking to connect with talent. Backstage provides casting calls, audition listings, and an opportunity to network with directors and producers looking for actors and writers. You can build a profile to showcase your work and get noticed by industry insiders.
IMDb Pro: If you're serious about making connections in the film and TV industry, IMDb Pro is a powerful tool. It gives you access to contact information for actors, agents, managers, and producers, making it easier to reach out and build relationships. You can also see what projects are currently in production and target those for networking.
Shooting People: This is a network specifically for independent filmmakers, writers, and actors. It’s a great place to find collaborators for indie projects and get involved in the grassroots filmmaking community. There are regular listings for casting calls, crew needs, and screenwriting competitions.
The Black List: For writers, The Black List is an excellent platform to get your scripts noticed by industry professionals. You can upload your screenplay for evaluation and, if it receives high ratings, it can attract the attention of producers and agents. Many successful scripts have been discovered this way.
Each of these platforms is designed with creatives in mind, offering more industry-specific connections and opportunities than LinkedIn, making them better suited for actors and writers trying to break into film and TV.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Juliana !
It's wonderful to know that you are looking into schools, whether they be vocational or universities, that will be your best networking experience. It's still going to have to be done in person due to the one dimensional, elusive and somewhat anonymous contemporary registering at websites. To be honest with you, I received acting work through Indeed four times. It's just going to depend on how much time you want to spend on the internet, but getting out there in a school and auditioning for plays for off-Broadway or local theatre groups will be your best bet.
There's also a group that meets in person on Meet Up in NYC. Do a search on Meet Up to meet fellow actors and writers that you could possibly collaborate with. I would also suggest using HGB Casting as they post breakdowns and mention where the shoot is. Also good is Auditions Free from which you will receive frequent casting notices for work in the 50 United States.
I would suggest that you visit all of the colleges in NYC that offer film programs and submit your photo/resume to students for student films. You can register at as many online apps as you can, but in person contact will make people remember you and they'll put the name to the face, improving your chances. Online is great for casting notices and actor portfolios as well as online classes, but the real networking always has been and always will be face to face contact.
I do want to say that there is remote acting work, too, and you should try that as well. It does usually show up on such apps as Indeed, Linked In and Backstage as well as Auditions Free. It's usually less pay than on site projects, but well worth it.
I wish you all the best moving forward with your career ! Have fun !
HGB CASTING - PROFILE AND BREAKDOWNS https://hbgcasting.com/
AUDITIONS FREE - AUDITIONS SENT TO YOU FREQUENTLY FOR ALL 50 STATES https://www.auditionsfree.com/
It's wonderful to know that you are looking into schools, whether they be vocational or universities, that will be your best networking experience. It's still going to have to be done in person due to the one dimensional, elusive and somewhat anonymous contemporary registering at websites. To be honest with you, I received acting work through Indeed four times. It's just going to depend on how much time you want to spend on the internet, but getting out there in a school and auditioning for plays for off-Broadway or local theatre groups will be your best bet.
There's also a group that meets in person on Meet Up in NYC. Do a search on Meet Up to meet fellow actors and writers that you could possibly collaborate with. I would also suggest using HGB Casting as they post breakdowns and mention where the shoot is. Also good is Auditions Free from which you will receive frequent casting notices for work in the 50 United States.
I would suggest that you visit all of the colleges in NYC that offer film programs and submit your photo/resume to students for student films. You can register at as many online apps as you can, but in person contact will make people remember you and they'll put the name to the face, improving your chances. Online is great for casting notices and actor portfolios as well as online classes, but the real networking always has been and always will be face to face contact.
I do want to say that there is remote acting work, too, and you should try that as well. It does usually show up on such apps as Indeed, Linked In and Backstage as well as Auditions Free. It's usually less pay than on site projects, but well worth it.
I wish you all the best moving forward with your career ! Have fun !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Juliana,
Best Networking Platforms for Potential Actors and Writers
1. Backstage: Backstage is a popular platform for actors, writers, and other creatives in the entertainment industry. It offers a variety of resources such as job listings, casting calls, and industry news. Users can create profiles showcasing their work and connect with industry professionals.
2. Stage 32: Stage 32 is a networking platform specifically designed for film, television, and theater professionals. It allows users to connect with others in the industry, collaborate on projects, and access educational resources. Stage 32 also hosts webinars and networking events.
3. The Dots: The Dots is a creative network that connects professionals across various creative industries, including acting and writing. It provides a platform for individuals to showcase their portfolios, collaborate on projects, and network with like-minded creatives.
4. Mandy Network: Mandy Network is another platform that caters to professionals in the film and TV industry. It offers job listings, networking opportunities, and resources for actors, writers, directors, and other creatives.
5. Creative Guild: Creative Guild is a community-driven platform that connects creative professionals from various industries. It allows users to showcase their work, collaborate on projects, and network with others in the creative field.
These platforms offer valuable networking opportunities for potential actors and writers beyond what LinkedIn provides. They are tailored specifically to the entertainment industry and can help individuals connect with industry professionals, find job opportunities, and showcase their work effectively.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Backstage 2. Stage 32 3. The Dots
These sources were selected based on their reputation within the entertainment industry as reliable platforms for networking and connecting with professionals in acting and writing fields.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Best Networking Platforms for Potential Actors and Writers
1. Backstage: Backstage is a popular platform for actors, writers, and other creatives in the entertainment industry. It offers a variety of resources such as job listings, casting calls, and industry news. Users can create profiles showcasing their work and connect with industry professionals.
2. Stage 32: Stage 32 is a networking platform specifically designed for film, television, and theater professionals. It allows users to connect with others in the industry, collaborate on projects, and access educational resources. Stage 32 also hosts webinars and networking events.
3. The Dots: The Dots is a creative network that connects professionals across various creative industries, including acting and writing. It provides a platform for individuals to showcase their portfolios, collaborate on projects, and network with like-minded creatives.
4. Mandy Network: Mandy Network is another platform that caters to professionals in the film and TV industry. It offers job listings, networking opportunities, and resources for actors, writers, directors, and other creatives.
5. Creative Guild: Creative Guild is a community-driven platform that connects creative professionals from various industries. It allows users to showcase their work, collaborate on projects, and network with others in the creative field.
These platforms offer valuable networking opportunities for potential actors and writers beyond what LinkedIn provides. They are tailored specifically to the entertainment industry and can help individuals connect with industry professionals, find job opportunities, and showcase their work effectively.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Backstage 2. Stage 32 3. The Dots
These sources were selected based on their reputation within the entertainment industry as reliable platforms for networking and connecting with professionals in acting and writing fields.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Thanks for the help.
Juliana
Updated
Astrid’s Answer
Hello Juliana!
Backstage serves as an excellent platform for uploading audition videos, displaying headshots, and listing the productions you've been involved in, along with your respective roles. It's also a wonderful space to highlight your educational background.
Polywork, another favorite of mine, is a networking site that encourages collaboration and interaction with other users. It provides a platform to seek out collaborations and projects, and express interest in such opportunities. Polywork stands out by allowing you to express yourself in a more visual manner than traditional sites. You have the ability to personalize your page to mirror your personality more accurately, thus presenting a more authentic version of yourself to the public.
If you're a member of an honor's society, they typically offer networking opportunities on their websites. Alternatively, you can join their groups on Linkedin and other social media platforms, which can be instrumental in connecting with like-minded individuals.
Wishing you the very best in your college journey and future career!
Backstage serves as an excellent platform for uploading audition videos, displaying headshots, and listing the productions you've been involved in, along with your respective roles. It's also a wonderful space to highlight your educational background.
Polywork, another favorite of mine, is a networking site that encourages collaboration and interaction with other users. It provides a platform to seek out collaborations and projects, and express interest in such opportunities. Polywork stands out by allowing you to express yourself in a more visual manner than traditional sites. You have the ability to personalize your page to mirror your personality more accurately, thus presenting a more authentic version of yourself to the public.
If you're a member of an honor's society, they typically offer networking opportunities on their websites. Alternatively, you can join their groups on Linkedin and other social media platforms, which can be instrumental in connecting with like-minded individuals.
Wishing you the very best in your college journey and future career!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Juliana
Updated
Temitayo’s Answer
While LinkedIn is a valuable tool for professional networking in many industries, the entertainment industry, including acting and writing, often relies on more specialized platforms and methods for networking. Here are some alternatives to LinkedIn that may be more effective for you:
Backstage: Backstage is a popular platform for actors, casting directors, and filmmakers. It offers casting calls, audition opportunities, industry news, and resources for actors at all levels of experience.
Stage 32: Stage 32 is a social networking platform specifically for professionals in the entertainment industry, including actors, writers, directors, and producers. It allows users to connect, collaborate, and find opportunities in film, television, theater, and digital media.
The Black List: The Black List is a platform for screenwriters to showcase their scripts and connect with industry professionals, including producers, agents, and executives. It also offers script evaluations and competitions to help writers improve their work.
Casting Networks: Casting Networks is used by casting directors and talent agents to find actors for film, television, theater, commercials, and other projects. Actors can create profiles, submit for auditions, and network with industry professionals.
InkTip: InkTip is a platform for connecting screenwriters with producers, agents, and filmmakers looking for scripts. It features a database of scripts available for option or sale across various genres and formats.
FilmFreeway: FilmFreeway is a submission platform for film festivals, screenwriting competitions, and other creative opportunities. Writers and filmmakers can discover festivals, contests, and networking events to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals.
Networking Events and Workshops: In addition to online platforms, attending industry events, workshops, film festivals, and networking mixers can be valuable for meeting and connecting with actors, writers, directors, and other industry professionals in person.
Remember that networking is not just about online platforms but also about building relationships and making connections in person. Don't hesitate to reach out to industry professionals, attend events, and participate in workshops to expand your network and increase your opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Backstage: Backstage is a popular platform for actors, casting directors, and filmmakers. It offers casting calls, audition opportunities, industry news, and resources for actors at all levels of experience.
Stage 32: Stage 32 is a social networking platform specifically for professionals in the entertainment industry, including actors, writers, directors, and producers. It allows users to connect, collaborate, and find opportunities in film, television, theater, and digital media.
The Black List: The Black List is a platform for screenwriters to showcase their scripts and connect with industry professionals, including producers, agents, and executives. It also offers script evaluations and competitions to help writers improve their work.
Casting Networks: Casting Networks is used by casting directors and talent agents to find actors for film, television, theater, commercials, and other projects. Actors can create profiles, submit for auditions, and network with industry professionals.
InkTip: InkTip is a platform for connecting screenwriters with producers, agents, and filmmakers looking for scripts. It features a database of scripts available for option or sale across various genres and formats.
FilmFreeway: FilmFreeway is a submission platform for film festivals, screenwriting competitions, and other creative opportunities. Writers and filmmakers can discover festivals, contests, and networking events to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals.
Networking Events and Workshops: In addition to online platforms, attending industry events, workshops, film festivals, and networking mixers can be valuable for meeting and connecting with actors, writers, directors, and other industry professionals in person.
Remember that networking is not just about online platforms but also about building relationships and making connections in person. Don't hesitate to reach out to industry professionals, attend events, and participate in workshops to expand your network and increase your opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Thank you, Temitayo!
Juliana
Updated
Jim’s Answer
Facebook has a number of Groups for actors and actor wannabes. Some cater to background actors and some to SAG AFTRA members. Most of those people were in your shoes at some stage of their careers.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Juliana
Updated
Pamela’s Answer
Hi Juliana
Some popular networking platforms for actors and writers that are not LinkedIn include:
I hope this helps! Wishing you all of God's plan for your life.
1. Stage 32: A networking platform specifically designed for actors, writers, filmmakers, and other professionals in the entertainment industry.
2. The Dots: A networking platform for creative professionals, including actors and writers, to showcase their work and connect with potential collaborators.
3. Backstage: A platform for actors and writers to find casting opportunities, writing gigs, and networking events.
4. Writers Work: A platform for writers to connect with other writers, editors, and publishers, share their work, and receive feedback.
5. Hollywood Creative Directory: A comprehensive resource for professionals in the entertainment industry, including actors and writers, to connect with industry contacts, access job listings, and promote their work.
In addition to these platforms, attending industry events, workshops, and conferences can also be a great way to network with other actors and writers and make meaningful connections.
Best wishes for your success,
_Professional Pamela Knight
Some popular networking platforms for actors and writers that are not LinkedIn include:
I hope this helps! Wishing you all of God's plan for your life.
1. Stage 32: A networking platform specifically designed for actors, writers, filmmakers, and other professionals in the entertainment industry.
2. The Dots: A networking platform for creative professionals, including actors and writers, to showcase their work and connect with potential collaborators.
3. Backstage: A platform for actors and writers to find casting opportunities, writing gigs, and networking events.
4. Writers Work: A platform for writers to connect with other writers, editors, and publishers, share their work, and receive feedback.
5. Hollywood Creative Directory: A comprehensive resource for professionals in the entertainment industry, including actors and writers, to connect with industry contacts, access job listings, and promote their work.
In addition to these platforms, attending industry events, workshops, and conferences can also be a great way to network with other actors and writers and make meaningful connections.
Best wishes for your success,
_Professional Pamela Knight
Pamela, thank you!
Juliana
Updated
Frederica E.’s Answer
Hello Julianna,
First if all you are located in the best city where New York is filled with a huge background and love for art, music, acting, and writing. You can venture into any realm of these because the city is so huge and offers a lot of different opportunities for you!
One opportunity that I found was Mind the Gap, an intergenerational theatre program, connecting young people and elders through the power of storytelling.
This free workshop matches New Yorkers age 60 and up with teens ages 14 to 19. Participants interview each other over the course of 12 sessions, learning about their partners’ lives and dreams. They write or devise short plays based on the material they gather and in a culminating celebration, hear scripts read aloud by professional actors or perform their own work.
I have the website here: NYTW / ➡️Mind the Gap
https://www.nytw.org/education/mind-the-gap/
The library and or book store is another great place for you to borrow or buy books related to finding even more resources. New non-profit organizations are being added everyday.
Wherever life takes you remember to never give up on yourself because you are able to do anything you set your mind to!
First if all you are located in the best city where New York is filled with a huge background and love for art, music, acting, and writing. You can venture into any realm of these because the city is so huge and offers a lot of different opportunities for you!
One opportunity that I found was Mind the Gap, an intergenerational theatre program, connecting young people and elders through the power of storytelling.
This free workshop matches New Yorkers age 60 and up with teens ages 14 to 19. Participants interview each other over the course of 12 sessions, learning about their partners’ lives and dreams. They write or devise short plays based on the material they gather and in a culminating celebration, hear scripts read aloud by professional actors or perform their own work.
I have the website here: NYTW / ➡️Mind the Gap
https://www.nytw.org/education/mind-the-gap/
The library and or book store is another great place for you to borrow or buy books related to finding even more resources. New non-profit organizations are being added everyday.
Wherever life takes you remember to never give up on yourself because you are able to do anything you set your mind to!
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Juliana