Introduction to Entrepreneurship in the World of Gum Commercials

I'm 17 and I want to be an actress and model. I wrote a skit for a gum commercial and my mom read it and said it was really good. How can I make money with this and get someone to bring my skit to life?

As someone who has been in the advertising industry for decades, it's important to understand the landscape of making money from a commercial skit. Unless you find a viral platform like TikTok or YouTube, traditional methods can be challenging. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help aspiring actresses and models like you navigate this exciting opportunity.

Understanding the Current Market

Investing in an attorney to copyright your idea may not be the most effective use of your resources. In the realm of commercial advertising, an original idea cannot be copyrighted under a specific brand name. However, you can still protect your creative work by seeking legal counsel to ensure proper copyright and intellectual property protection.

Short-term Strategies for Viral Content

If your skit is highly entertaining and relatable, the most direct way to make money from it is by making it into a standalone piece of content. Recording your skit with friends using your smartphone and uploading it to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube could help you find an audience. Here are some steps to consider:

Round Up Friends: Collaborate with friends who can help you with filming and producing the content. Choose the Right Platform: Select a platform that aligns with your target audience and content style. Upload Frequently: Consistency is key when it comes to building an audience on social media platforms.

Long-term Career Building

To move towards your long-term career goals of becoming an actress and model, consider the following steps:

Pitch Your Skit: Once you have a few strong scripts under your belt, you can pitch your skit to advertising agencies and directly to chewing gum companies. Build a Portfolio: Create a portfolio of scripts and spec work to showcase your talents to potential employers. Network: Join acting and modeling communities to build connections and learn from experienced professionals.

Hiring Professional Help

If you're aiming to take your skit to the next level with professional production quality, consider hiring a producer or director. They can help you film high-quality content and market it effectively. Here are a few tips for hiring:

Screen Potential Candidates: Look for professionals with a track record of success in the industry. Negotiate Budget: Ensure that the production budget aligns with your financial resources. Discuss Rights: It's crucial to establish clear rights and permissions regarding the use of your skit.

Conclusion

Your skit has the potential to be a great start to your career in the entertainment industry. Whether you choose to go viral on social media or pursue a more traditional path, the key lies in your passion, creativity, and perseverance. With time and effort, you can turn your idea into a reality and make a name for yourself as an actress and model.