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Imagine wrapping yourself in a blanket on a chilly evening with a cup of hot cocoa in your hand. You've just put on an audiobook, and the narrator's voice flows through the room, enveloping you in the story. The voice is captivating, the words are full of life, and the story comes alive. This is the experience when you listen to an audiobook narrated by Scott Brick, one of the most sought-after voices in the audiobook industry. Not only is Scott Brick an acclaimed narrator, but he also offers coaching to budding narrators. Why should you, as an audiobook narrator, consider getting coaching from him? Here are a few compelling reasons. Unrivaled Experience With over 800 audiobooks under his belt, Scott Brick's experience in the industry is unparalleled. He has narrated works from a wide range of genres including mystery, science fiction, fantasy, and history. By receiving coaching from him, you would be learning from someone with a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the industry's nuances. Stellar Awards Record Scott Brick's work has earned him numerous accolades, including the Audie Award, the Oscar of the audiobook industry, multiple times. He's also been nominated for a Grammy Award. These awards are a testament to his exceptional talent and skill. By learning from Scott Brick, you would be getting insight from a narrator who knows what it takes to deliver award-winning performances. " Wherever you are on your narration journey, I would love to help you reach your goals.  " - Scott Brick Expert Interpretation Skills Scott Brick is known for his ability to bring characters to life through his voice. He has a unique talent for capturing the essence of a character and conveying it through his narration. His coaching can help you develop the skills to interpret characters in your own unique way, enhancing your storytelling ability. Personalized Coaching Scott Brick offers personalized coaching tailored to the needs of each student. He focuses on improving the areas where the student needs the most help, whether it's character voices, pacing, or tone. This personalized approach ensures that you get the most out of your coaching sessions. Industry Connections Scott Brick has been in the audiobook industry for a long time and has built a strong network of connections. By getting coaching from him, you have the opportunity to learn about the industry from an insider's perspective and potentially open doors for future opportunities. In conclusion, getting coaching from Scott Brick can provide a significant boost to your career as an audiobook narrator. His experience, expertise, and personalized approach to coaching are invaluable resources for anyone looking to improve their skills and make their mark in the audiobook industry. So, wrap yourself in that metaphorical blanket, grab your cup of hot cocoa, and step into the world of Scott Brick – your journey to becoming a captivating narrator starts here! Want more voice over guidance & advice? Let's talk. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... He's the VO Strategist , a voice over business & marketing coach and demo producer since 2011. Tom Dheere is also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voiceover you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... Branding as a voice actor, is it really necessary? Maybe sort of kind of, it depends. Is it just me or are all of my blogs contain that answer? Well, there's a reason for that... Why is Voice Over Branding Not Necessarily Necessary? Everybody is different. Everybody's definitions of success are different. Everybody's genre proficiency and mastery dreams and dream clients are different. And depending on the way that you need to get cast, the way that you need to engage with clients based on your definition of success and based on the genres that you wish to be successful at, will have a major influence on if you should brand yourself at all. How should you decide to brand yourself? Here's one way to help you decide... Public Voice Actors Public voice actors are voice actors who do video games, animation, and audio books. These are voice actors that when they perform in a cartoon, video game, or audio book, their name is known to the people who are watching the cartoon, playing the video game, or listening to the audio book. Private Voice Actors Those are the voice actors that do pretty much everything else like corporate videos, explainers, and documentaries, though if you can get that end credit in the History Channel show, that'd be awesome. So what should you do? If you're a Public Voice Actor, branding may serve you well. Or not. If you're a Private Voice Actor, branding may not be as helpful. Unless it is. Do your research, talk to industry professionals, and make an informed decision about branding your voice over business! Keep Going - Watch Branding for Voice Actors: Branding For Voice Over Actors Have questions about how to brand your voice over business? In this video, I take you through the basics of voiceover branding - what it is and best practices for branding success. Learn how to tell your story through great branding, and discover how presenting you in its best light can benefit your business... Upcoming Events & Appearances Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience  who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

The Importance of Practice in Voice Acting Voice acting is both an art and a science. It blends creativity and emotion with technique and discipline. As a voice actor, you must constantly strive to enhance your skills. Practice is key, but how you practice matters. Finding Your Unique Voice Many aspiring voice actors obsess over mimicking famous characters. However, those jobs are already taken! It’s crucial to discover your own voice. Understanding the difference between practicing and experimenting in voiceover work is essential. When you approach your craft like both an expressive artist and a scientist, you’ll develop unique talent as an artist. How Drummers Approach Practice I’ve always been fascinated by drumming. My brother, a seasoned drummer, was part of high school and college marching bands. I often found myself amazed by his talent. One of my favorite YouTube channels, Drumeo , features drummers who listen to a song they’ve never heard before, create their own drum track in a few takes, and compare it to the original. This is a great parallel to voice acting. Both musicians and voice actors need to approach their craft with an experimental mindset. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about discovering what works. For example, Drumeo’s guest drummer, Megadeth’s Dirk Verbeuren, is a drumming virtuoso. His incredible interpretation of songs, even after hearing them just once, is not the result of strict practice. Instead, it stems from years of experimentation and trial and error. How did Dirk manage to pull off such a great performance in a short timeframe? It was through practice—not the type that stifles creativity but one that encourages freedom and adaptation. How Voice Actors Approach Practice For voice actors, the same principles apply. The most successful voice actors experiment with different voices and performances. This experimentation allows their natural voice to shine through. But how is this approach different from traditional practice? It lies in embracing creativity in voice acting rather than merely replicating existing characters. The Secret to Successful Voice Acting: Experimentation Bad practice leads to reinforcing poor habits. However, good practice is more about understanding your voice’s limitations while developing your storytelling skills. Successful voice actors focus on experimenting with their own voices, not just replicating characters. By doing this, they craft unique, engaging performances. Not only does this leave an impact, but it also establishes a repeatable process. When it comes to voiceover auditioning, experimentation is crucial. It’s just as important as refining techniques. Learning how to cold-read a script, adjust your performance based on casting requirements, and deliver an engaging, believable take requires years of experience. But it’s not just about getting it “right” each time (because there’s no “right” answer). It’s about trying new things consistently and improving with each opportunity. Why Practice Should Include Experimentation Experimentation is a vital part of practice for voice actors. It allows you to refine your skills while adapting to different genres, characters, and styles. The more you experiment, the more you learn about your abilities. This learning enables you to deliver fresh and original performances. Ready to Take Your Voice Acting to the Next Level? Explore our recommended resources and start experimenting with your craft today! A must-read is "Talent is Overrated" by Geoff Colvin. This book dives deeper into the concepts of deliberate practice and skill development. Click on the book image to get the book now! If you're looking for professional guidance and personalized advice, contact me today for a consultation. Alternatively, visit our homepage to learn more about our services! Keep Going - Watch This Next: Website Basics Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Get a Video Subscription - use code FORWARD for 20% off your first month! Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months. Register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for Help Navigating the Entertainment Industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't Know Where to Start? Let's Chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's discuss what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom has provided voiceover business and marketing coaching since 2011. He is also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated a wide variety of voiceovers. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

How Voice Actors File Their Taxes: Key Tips & Changes You Need to Know Every January, voice actors receive W-2 and 1099 forms from clients to file their taxes. Whether using Schedule A or Schedule C, properly filing your voice actor taxes is crucial to staying compliant with IRS regulations. The forms you receive depend on the income you’ve earned and the payment methods used by your clients. For voice actors, tax season can become overwhelming as we try to track down all the necessary documents to file our taxes correctly. This year, I found myself dealing with a bit of a tax twist—and I want to share what I learned to help you avoid the same confusion. The 1099-K: A New Challenge for Voice Actors As a voice actor , I was expecting many 1099-NEC forms this year from clients who paid me over $600. However, I received fewer of those and many more 1099-K forms instead. A 1099-K is issued by payment processors like PayPal, Venmo, and even platforms such as Wix, Voice123, and Wave Apps. The problem with 1099-K forms is that they don’t itemize which clients made payments. For example, my 1099-K from Voice123 only accounts for payments made through their secure payment system. Other clients on the platform paid via PayPal, credit card, or direct deposit, so I had to figure out which payments weren't included on the form. Tracking down missing information from these forms has been a nightmare. For detailed information about 1099-K forms and IRS regulations, visit the   official IRS website . To further complicate things, I also needed to determine which clients should issue a 1099-NEC for income over $600 and what income I needed to report that wasn’t included in any of the tax forms. The BIG Change in IRS Tax Filing Rules for 2024 This year, the IRS made a significant change to the threshold for issuing 1099-K forms. Let’s take a look at how the reporting thresholds have changed: 2023:  Over $20,000 in gross payments and over 200 transactions. 2024:  Over $5,000 in payments and one or more transactions. 2025:  Over $2,500 in payments and one or more transactions. 2026 and after:  Over $600 in payments and one or more transactions. As you can see, the reporting threshold for 2024 dropped significantly from $20,000 to $5,000, and by 2026, it will be as low as $600. This change has made it a bit tricky for voice actors like myself to keep track of all the necessary information. But don't worry—here’s how you can stay ahead of the game. According to   H&R Block's article , these are the new reporting thresholds for 1099-K forms in 2024. How to Prepare to File Your Voice Over Taxes This Year If you haven’t already, I recommend taking a few steps to ensure you’re prepared for tax season. First, create a list of all your 2024 clients, how much they paid you, which payment portal they used (PayPal, Venmo, etc.), and all forms of payment received (check, direct deposit, credit card, bank payment, etc.). Having this information will make it much easier when you start receiving those 1099-K forms, as you’ll be able to cross-check and quickly identify which payments are accounted for. How to Prepare to File Your Voice Over Taxes Next Year I strongly recommend creating a spreadsheet to manage your voiceover revenue and populate it every time you book a voice over client. That way you won't be scrambling this time next year. If you don't want to create something from scratch or need some spreadsheet inspiration, download my free Cash Flow Spreadsheet Template.   Click on this link to download it . Be sure to click on the How To Use tab at the bottom of the spreadsheet to learn how to use it effectively. Stay cool, stay safe, and happy tax filing! Keep Going - Watch this next: Make Taxes Less Taxing Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Get a Video Subscription - use the code FORWARD  for 20% off your first month! Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Do you have no idea where your money is going? With a Cash Flow Tracking Sheet, you can track every penny that goes into and out of your business. Keep track of all of your gigs & expenses. It's perfect for when you meet with your CPA to file your taxes - they will love your organization! Please subscribe & sign in to download this template...

The voiceover industry is at a crossroads. All voice actors, from the newbiest newb to the crustiest vet, are looking at the voiceover industry wondering what the hell is going on and what’s going to happen next. This concern manifests most clearly in how much we get paid. With that in mind, let’s talk about the state of the voiceover industry from a rates perspective, look at what’s affecting our rates, and figure out what we as voice actors can do to not only stay relevant (and sane) but thrive in this ever-evolving (and weird) landscape. The Forces Shaping Voice Over Rates Voiceover rates are the way they are in 2025 as a consequence of technology & morality. Technology, morality, and the economics of any given industry always go hand in hand in hand. Is that three hands or six...? Regardless, the most recent example of technology affecting the voiceover industry is AI. AI And Your Wallet 2025 may very well be the year of AI in the voiceover industry. Companies that provide synthetic voice over services have been training their AI’s, building their rosters & catalogs, and refining their processes for years. This year some of those companies might start marketing their services more heavily. This may make even more projects disappear for human narrators, sort of. Here's what I mean by "sort of"... If an untrained, unethical voice actor who is willing to get paid $5 to do a $500 job loses that $5 job to AI, should we care? How much of those $5 gigs are going where? Some is going to tech companies who crafted a composite synthetic voice scraped from all of our demos & samples. Some is going to companies that cloned a voice from an unknowing or naive voice actor. Some is going to voice actors that willingly cloned their voice whose IP is protected as much as can realistically be expected. What are the rate structures for the voice actors who willingly cloned their voices? Some participate in a royalty-based model where they receive a percentage of the revenue generated every time their cloned voice is used. Others negotiate a one-time buyout fee to use their vocal likeness in perpetuity. Yet others negotiate each project with the potential to be paid rates that are commensurate with the industry standard. And I'm sure other compensation structures will be coming to a theater near you. In short, it is still the Wild West when it comes to voiceover rates and AI. Are clients leveraging AI to pay human voice actors less? One could say of course they are, look at the compensation structures your just cited, Tom. What I mean is are clients saying to voice actors, "I know I usually pay you $500 to do this Explainer video but I could pay AI $5, so would you be willing to do it for $50?" If you or anyone you know has experienced this, please share in the comments. Strikes and Pay-To-Pay Sites Not coincidentally, as of this writing the SAG-AFTRA Interactive Media Strike is still ongoing. The union negotiators are fighting fiercely to protect its members from predatory practices regarding the use of AI to use video game narrators’ voices without adequate compensation or any compensation at all. Hopefully the strike will end soon and a new standard will be set for protecting all voice actors. Technology fostered the creation of AI as well as the other bogeyman in the voiceover industry, Pay-to-Play sites. Technology also created the ability for most of us to be able to record from home and have a voiceover career at all. In effect, technology has democratized the voiceover industry. Is that a good thing, a bad thing, or just a thing? The Morality Of The Voice Over Industry If you think the current state of voiceover rates can be blamed entirely on immoral AI companies, shady Pay-to-Play sites, and non-union hacks, think about this: Some voice actors use Pay-to-Play sites ethically, others don’t Some non-union voice actors strictly adhere to the Global Voice Acting Academy Rate Guide , others work for pennies Some SAG-AFTRA members are unwaveringly faithful to Global Rule One , others violate Global Rule One regularly out of financial necessity or they just don’t care Pay-to-play sites do not hex upstanding citizens into depraved parasites and SAG-AFTRA does not instantly canonize new members into saints. You bring your values, morals, and ethics with you everywhere you go. There are a percentage of people in every industry who will always behave morally and there are a certain percentage of people in every industry who will never behave morally. The voice over industry is no different. The Future of Voice Over Rates: Predictions and Possibilities The voiceover industry’s rates will continue to be whatever any one individual feels like charging. There hasn’t been any market pressure to keep rates fair for a long time and I don’t think that will change anytime soon. Here is something to consider. If AI causes the voiceover industry to further contract, the economic laws of supply and demand may come to bear. If there is less voice over work for humans, more voice actors will leave the industry and it will be exponentially harder for few new voice actors to enter the industry. But what about the talented, well-trained, ethical voice actors who are able to stay in the voiceover industry? The voice actors who are left will be better storytellers than AI and the demand for this smaller casting pool may increase. Perhaps they will be able to charge more for their services. Am I fooling myself with this thought exercise? Time will tell. The Future is in Your Hands You, dear reader, are the voiceover community. The onus is on you to learn, grow, evolve, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape that is the voiceover industry. If you're in the union, explore the many programs & services that SAG-AFTRA provides to maximize your knowledge and take full advantage of the tools at your disposal. Adhere to Global Rule One. Learn how to convert non-union gigs into union gigs. Educate yourself about non-jurisdictional voice over work. If you’re non-union, join the National Association of Voice Actors to educate yourself and learn how to protect your IP. Participate in workshops & fundraisers. Get health insurance through their programs if you need it. For everyone, Stop the endless whining, judging, flaming, and trolling that damages our culture and psyche. Join supportive and informative groups & servers on platforms like Reddit, Discord, and Slack to contribute and learn from your peers. Explore new genres, get more training, update those dusty demos, develop new marketing strategies, and don't be afraid to talk to your clients. They have their own sets of challenges and you could & should commiserate with them. I urge you to comport yourself ethically, charge rates that are commensurate with the industry standard, respect & support each other, and keep on keepin’ on. A rising tide lifts all boats. Be part of that rising tide! Keep Going - Watch this next: Know Your Worth Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Get a Video Subscription - use code FORWARD  for 20% off your first month! Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... Catch the replay - Voice Over Dubbing with Jessica Blue So, you're an aspiring voice actor with a passion for dubbing? That's fantastic! Dubbing is a fascinating and rewarding field, but it requires a unique set of skills and a deep understanding of the process. Let's break down some key insights from a recent conversation between Tom Dheere and Jessica Blue, a seasoned voice actor and dubbing specialist. Key Skills for Dubbing Success: Cold Reading Mastery: The ability to read a script quickly and accurately, understanding the context and character, is crucial. Practice reading scripts out loud, paying attention to pacing, intonation, and emotion. Lip-Sync Precision: You must be able to match your vocal delivery to the on-screen lip movements. This involves understanding phonetics and timing your lines precisely. Strong Acting Skills: Even though you're not physically present, you need to bring your character to life through your voice. Study acting techniques to develop your range and versatility. Language Proficiency: While not always necessary, a strong grasp of the language being dubbed can enhance your performance. Consider learning new languages to expand your opportunities. The Dubbing Process: Translation and Adaptation: The original script is translated into the target language and then adapted to fit the lip sync and cultural nuances. Recording: Voice actors record their lines in a soundproof studio, often using specialized software to synchronize their performance with the visual track. Post-Production: The recorded audio is edited, mixed, and combined with the original video to create the final dubbed product. Networking and Building Relationships: Attend Industry Events:  Conferences, workshops, and networking events are excellent opportunities to connect with professionals in the dubbing industry. Build Relationships:  Cultivate strong relationships with directors, producers, and other voice actors. Leverage Online Platforms:  Use social media and online forums to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. Remember:  The dubbing industry is competitive, so persistence and dedication are key. Keep honing your skills, network with industry professionals, and be patient. With hard work and perseverance, you can build a successful career in dubbing. Do you have any specific questions about dubbing or voice acting in general? Feel free to ask in the comments below! VOS Book Club Studio Gear & Recommendations Looking for a new microphone, audio interface, or other gear? Click the button below to check out my recommendations! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience  who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

bscribe on YouTube for the latest... Set Yourself Up for Voiceover Success in the New Year I had a fantastic conversation with the VO BOSS Anne Ganguzza about how voice actors can set their goals for 2025. We discussed the importance of identifying yourself as both an artist and a business professional within the voice acting industry. Our insightful discussion provides valuable strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of voiceover, including how to leverage your unique identity, set specific and achievable goals, and effectively market yourself in the face of emerging AI technologies. Whether you're a seasoned voice actor or just starting your journey, our conversation will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve success in the new year. Tom's Top Takeaways Identify yourself as an artist and a businessperson.  Voice actors need to be aware of both the artistic and business sides of the industry. Set specific goals.  Vague goals will lead to vague results. Instead, focus on identifying specific goals that you can work towards. Train and develop your skills.  There are always new things to learn in the voice acting industry. Invest in your training and development to stay ahead of the curve. Market yourself effectively.  There are many different ways to market yourself as a voice actor. Explore different options and find what works best for you. Embrace challenges.  The voice acting industry is constantly changing. Be prepared to embrace challenges and adapt to new technologies. Keep going - watch this next: Get Your Freelancing Act Together Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Use the promo code FORWARD for a discount! Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Tom Dheere is the Voice Over Strategist , providing voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... How was your voiceover year? In this episode of the VO Boss Podcast, host Anne Ganguzza sits down with the Voiceover Strategist Tom Dheere to discuss ways to make an end-of-year business assessment. They delve into the importance of reflecting on your "why" – your motivations for pursuing a voiceover career. Tom emphasizes that if the "feels" aren't there, it's crucial to re-evaluate your approach. Tom's Top Takeaways Reflect on your "why":  Start by assessing your motivations. Are you still passionate about voiceover? Does it still bring you joy? Set specific goals:  Vague goals lead to vague results. Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for the upcoming year. Track your progress:  Utilize Tom's free downloadable cash flow sheet to track income, expenses, job types, and how you obtained each booking (e.g., auditions, direct bookings, online casting sites). Analyze your data:  Examine your data to identify trends, areas for improvement, and the most effective marketing strategies. Don't fear the spreadsheet:  While it may seem daunting, tracking your progress is essential for growth. Tom's spreadsheet simplifies the process and provides valuable insights. Invest in yourself:  Consider working with a business coach or mentor like Tom Deere to stay accountable and receive personalized guidance. Anne and Tom also discuss: The challenges of freelancing and the importance of building a supportive community. The value of consistent effort and the importance of investing in your professional development. The importance of self-reflection and continuous improvement in the ever-evolving voiceover industry. Keep going - watch this next: Voiceover Project Management Watch this trailer then click the button below to rent this How-To video for only 5 BUCKS! (offer good until 12/31/24) Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... A Magical Weekend at MAVO In this episode of the VO Boss Podcast , we reminisced about our recent experience at the Mid-Atlantic Voiceover Conference (MAVO) . We both raved about the intimate setting, high-caliber speakers, and the unique opportunity to connect with industry peers. Key Takeaways from MAVO: A Focus on Quality:  MAVO, though a smaller conference, boasts a disproportionate number of top-tier speakers. Diverse Topics:  From character animation to business strategies, the conference offered a wide range of topics to cater to various interests. Networking Opportunities:  The smaller size of MAVO facilitated meaningful connections with fellow voice actors, casting directors, and industry experts. AI and the Future of Voiceover:  We discussed the growing importance of understanding AI and its potential impact on the industry. The Value of Business and Marketing:  We emphasized the significance of business and marketing skills, even for talented voice actors. Conference Strategies for First-Timers: Plan Ahead:  Create a schedule of sessions you want to attend. Take Effective Notes:  Use a combination of note-taking apps and physical notebooks. Network Strategically:  Exchange contact information and connect with fellow attendees. Attend Business and Marketing Sessions:  Don't neglect the business side of voiceover. Find a Note-Taking Buddy:  Collaborate with a fellow attendee to maximize your learning. Final Thoughts: MAVO 2024 was a resounding success, offering a valuable learning experience and a chance to connect with the voiceover community. We encourage all voice actors to consider attending future conferences to expand their knowledge and network. Remember, the rising tide lifts all boats. Let's continue to support and learn from each other! Keep going - watch this next: Voiceover Website Basics Watch this trailer then click the button below to rent this How-To video for only 5 BUCKS! (Offer good until 12/31/24. Regular price is $20.) Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... The Cold, Hard Truth About Cold Calling In the age of digital communication, the effectiveness of cold calling has waned significantly. This is especially true in the voiceover industry, where building relationships and showcasing unique talents often takes precedence over traditional sales tactics. The Downsides of Cold Calling Low Response Rates:  People are increasingly wary of unsolicited calls, especially from unknown numbers. Time-Consuming:  It requires significant time and effort, often with little return. Potential for Negative Impressions:  A poorly executed cold call can damage your professional reputation. Changing Industry Landscape:  The rise of online platforms and digital marketing has shifted the focus away from traditional cold calling. Alternative Approaches While cold calling might not be the most effective strategy for you, there are several alternative approaches that may yield better results: Targeted Email Outreach: Personalization:  Tailor your emails to the specific recipient and their needs. Value Proposition:  Clearly articulate the value you can bring to the table. Clear Call to Action:  Guide the recipient on the next steps. Leverage Social Media: Build Relationships:  Engage with potential clients on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Share Your Work:  Showcase your skills through demos and behind-the-scenes content. Join Relevant Groups:  Participate in industry discussions and connect with like-minded professionals. Networking Events and Conferences: In-Person Connections:  Build relationships with industry professionals face-to-face. Information Gathering:  Learn about potential clients and their needs. Industry Insights:  Stay updated on the latest trends and opportunities. Online Portfolios and Demo Websites: Showcase Your Talent:  Create a professional online presence to highlight your skills. SEO Optimization:  Improve your website's visibility through relevant keywords and metadata. Analytics Tracking:  Monitor website traffic and user engagement. Conclusion While cold calling might have been a viable strategy in the past and should be a part of your overall marketing strategy, it's essential to adapt to the changing landscape of the voiceover industry. By focusing on relationship building, digital marketing, and networking, you can increase your chances of landing voiceover gigs and establishing a successful career. Remember, quality over quantity. A few genuine connections can be more impactful than a hundred cold calls. Keep Going - Watch this next: Understanding Voice Over Representation Watch this trailer then click the button below to rent this How-To video for only 5 BUCKS! (offer expires 12/31/24, regular price $20) Want to stream as many How-To videos as you want? Get a Video Subscription - use code FORWARD  for 20% off your first month! Upcoming Events & Appearances Here's what I've got going on in the next few months - register to attend and add your voice to the mix! Looking for help navigating the entertainment industry? Check in and Stay on Track... Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest... Catch the replay - Business, Marketing, and Mindset with Paul Schmidt In this month's episode of the Voice Over Strategist Ask Me Anything livestream, we had the pleasure of hosting voiceover professional and VO Pro founder, Paul Schmidt. Paul shared his inspiring journey from actor to radio personality to successful voiceover artist. Key Takeaways The Power of Community:  Paul emphasized the importance of community in the voiceover industry. VO Pro, the community he founded, provides a supportive environment for voice actors to connect, learn, and grow. Direct Marketing and Relationship Building:  Paul advocates for direct marketing as a powerful tool for voiceover success. Building strong relationships with clients is crucial, and this can be achieved through proactive outreach and consistent communication. The Importance of Setting Realistic Expectations:  Honoring your word and setting clear expectations with clients is essential for building trust and maintaining long-lasting relationships. Overcoming Obstacles:  Paul shared his experiences with overcoming challenges, such as losing a major client and navigating the competitive voiceover landscape. His resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to aspiring voice actors. The Value of Continuous Learning:  Staying up to date with industry trends and best practices is crucial. V Pro offers a variety of resources and training programs to help members stay ahead of the curve. By sharing his insights and experiences, Paul provided valuable advice for voice actors at all stages of their careers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your business, there's something to learn from this insightful conversation. Learn more about Paul at https://paulschmidtvoice.com Learn more about Paul's VO Pro community at https://vopro.pro Up Next - catch Jessica Blue on December 16 @7PM ET as we talk about voice over dubbing... VOS Book Club Studio Gear & Recommendations Looking for a new microphone, audio interface, or other gear? Click the button below to check out my recommendations! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Don't know where to start? Let's chat. Grab 15 minutes free - let's see what your business needs... Through VO Strategist , Tom's provided voiceover business & marketing coaching since 2011. He's also a voice actor with over 25 years of experience  who has narrated just about every type of voice over you can think of. When not voicing or talking about voicing, Tom produces the sci-fi comic book Agent 1.22.