The scope and tools provided by social media can turn practically anyone into an online success story. Jim Meskimen, an actor and comedian is a good example of using YouTube to boost online visibility and push a Chicago videographer career. ReelSEO was lucky enough to get an exclusive interview with Meskimen, during which he sheds some light on using YouTube to stay relevant and successful. Below are excerpts from the interview.
What led you to start making videos for YouTube?
Desperation! Also a personal, artistic need to create messages, like I have done mainly with Professor Knestor, my art historian alter ego. I use that character to express some of my more personal feelings about creativity and art and culture that I don’t feel will be as acceptable/entertaining except thru the filter of a quirky, snaggle-toothed brit academician.
Have you seen a better turnout for your shows since you started posting video production?
After “Shakespeare in Celebrity Voices” went viral, we had shows selling out in Hollywood, full of strangers who had come in from the film. It was heaven. It was like blowing a whistle at a fire and having three engine companies of firemen show up. I’m so glad I did it, and am trying to continue to keep content rolling out to promote the next run at The Acting Center, which starts in February of 2012.
Do you think online video is the best way for new talent to “get noticed” or do they still have to knock on a lot of doors and expect rejection like always?
Any and all ways to attract attention are open and available. I think it all will depend on your dedication and resources and willingness to reach out. The online video phenomenon just makes it affordable and practical to become visible to the world.
“My Celebrity Alphabet” went viral in Australia, and I was able to turn a previously scheduled trip to Sydney into several performances onstage and on their Today Show, and made a lot of new friends and, I flatter myself, fans.
Visit ReelSEO to read the rest of Meskimen’s interview about working as a film and voice actor.
And visit Video One Pro for help with all your online Chicago videographer and video production needs.
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