After reading 'Reader 1 - Professional Communication Technologies', one of my first thoughts was the issue of privacy concerning a number of Web 2.0 sites. I know a number of other people have also raised this subject in their Task 1b posts and comments. So here are my initial thoughts:
Before even meeting a possible employer in an audition or casting, they now have the tools and ability, through the use of Web 2.0, to be able to know and see so much about you. Whether it be the infamous 'friday night pictures' your tagged in on Facebook, or embarrassing old videos on YouTube; with out taking any steps to keep this private, it's all out there readily available to be seen.
Would employers in the entertainment industry have the time to search the thousands of people they audition using Web 2.0 sites? ... In reality, probably not. However; that is one of the pros (or in this instant perhaps not) of Web 2.0 sites - you don't have to go searching for information; information can come to you.
Taking Facebook as an example, in 'Reader 1 - Professional Communication Technologies' is states that Facebook: 'shares content (25 billion pieces and counting) and then links other people to events and experiences'; 'makes connections between yourself and things you like and takes note of those connections'; and 'recommends things to you that it believes you may like (friends, causes, groups etc)'.
This is something I completely relate to. I am constantly faced with posts and photos of people who are friends of a friend of a friend, facebook recommending 'People you may know' or suggesting groups I should join where I only know a handful of the members. I can clearly see that it is becoming increasingly easy to come across information about people you don't even know. But in an industry where everybody knows somebody - i feel setting all non-professional information to private, is defiantly a good idea.
Although this may sound quite negative towards Web 2.0 sites, my overall view of them is resoundingly positive. It is so much easier now to 'put yourself out there'; whether this be through Spotlight, Casting Call Pro, videos on YouTube, etc; Web.20 is defiantly an amazing platform.
I feel as long as we are 'selective' about what information and media we share through Web 2.0 (especially as professionals), it is a brilliant and innovative tool. However, I suppose that may raise another question - Although we ourselves maybe be selective about what we share through Web 2.0; how much control do we really have over what other people may share about us?
Hope this is insightful! Please post your comments and views : )
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