Social Media and the Creatives by David Spies

If you’re one of the millions navigating the social media highway, there’s no definitive route. Social media is ever-expanding. Think the “Big Bang Theory” with a bazillion “1’s” and “0’s”.

Now think about the content you have to offer your potential audience... It can get a little overwhelming. That’s why it is best to have a social media plan to help you navigate the many different media outlets that are available. Have you claimed your handle (company name/personal name) on various social networks? Here’s a great tool (NameChk) that lets you see if your name is available.

It’s definitely a good idea to secure your name/company brand name on the various social networks that are currently available. This will ensure that you have a wide-ranging platform to get your message out there.

Social media and the ever-expanding list of social media platforms lend itself to creative entrepreneurs searching for the audience they deserve. Writers, screenwriters, filmmakers and authors around the world are embracing social media for the outlet that it provides. Social media sites allow millions of people from all backgrounds the access to present and share their work with the world. People can connect with individuals, sign up in groups with a similar interest of study, and join discussions to share ideas. The possibilities are limitless.

If you’re an individual that likes to take charge and have basic knowledge of websites/html, a blog is another great way of sharing your ideas and talent with the world. In addition to providing updated posts to your own blog, many bloggers welcome feedback and comments on their posts as well. When it comes to sharing ideas of inspiration and knowledge, it’s a two-way street. If you find that someone has taken the time to not only read your material, but has also provided feedback or a comment, it’s a social media common courtesy to reciprocate with some form of communication.

Whether you’re ramping up a social media platform for a new book, a screenplay, or you just finished a short movie, you’ll have to apply your brand image into your communications. Once you start communicating material to your audience, you’ll want to ensure that your messages are clear and concise.

Think of social media as your neighbor. You may see them every day, or even better, they may see you. My point is you don’t necessarily have to have a strategy plan to execute every single piece of information. Just be yourself. Being able to recognize the long-term value in relationships is the key to securing a good name for yourself in the social network you create.

Social media provides people the opportunity to connect with individuals they never would have if it were not for the Internet. You may find yourself conversing with many different people from all backgrounds and skill sets. You may even receive praise or a note of encouragement from a celebrity. Believe me, this does happen. One thing that you want to always practice is professionalism. Treat others how you would like to be treated, with respect.

It’s been almost a year since I started my twitter account. In this last year, I’ve made numerous contacts in the writing community, the film industry and various other industries across the globe. It has been a wonderful, learning and growing experience.


In the last two years, I’ve written two feature-length screenplays and one sitcom pilot. This year I decided to enter a couple of screenwriting contests. I’ve entered my recently completed feature-length comedy (Film Festival) into Scriptapalooza and after a careful and calculated rewrite; I’ve also entered my horror screenplay (Sasquatch the Movie) in the BlueCat Screenplay competition. In addition to being a practicing screenwriter, I’ve built and maintain a screenwriting blog at: http://davidspies.wordpress.com/

I enjoy sharing my knowledge and the articles I write with other writers and the many creative’s that visit my blog. I’ll continue to dedicate the time I have to write and share my inspiration and thoughts with the world.  


What social media means to me: connecting with people, forging friendships, helping others.

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      David L. Spies (@davidspies)