The U.S. Department of Defense defines psychological warfare (PSYWAR) as: "The planned use of propaganda and other psychological actions having the primary purpose of influencing the opinions, emotions, attitudes, and behavior of hostile foreign groups in such a way as to support the achievement of national objectives."
Career advancement is psychological warfare, in my view. The 'hostile foreign groups' may consist of directors or casting directors who might opt to hire or contract with other actors. They may be producers opting to buy someone else's screenplay or a publisher opting for someone else's novel. They may be movie-goers or TV audiences opting to watch films and shows other than the ones we are selling. In any event, we want to attract potential employers or audiences who will engage with us rather than someone else.
Psychological warfare can be waged in any number of ways. It is a conceptual activity with an infinite number of possibilities. One simply must know what one wants--give me the part in the film, buy my screenplay or novel--and from whom one wants it. Once these factors are established, the work can begin. A well conducted media campaign creates new networks--not of peers, but of qualified, motivated buyers for what you have to offer.
What are you selling and whom do you want to buy it?
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