Leesha S

How to Choose When to Give Your Talent

December 4, 2023 by Leesha S

Hurry Up and Wait at Your Cost! Image by Elisa Way from Pixabay

Many call the Christmas season The Season of Giving. It’s the time when people purchase and exchange gifts with family and friends. That generosity can also extend to neighbors, clients, and work associates, well, you get the idea. But giving as a seasonal gesture of kindness and giving your skills to others for free is not the same. While the choice may seem in the spirit of benevolence, working for free can be at a cost to the giver, so choose wisely. Know your cost before you give your talents to others.

Budding performing artists like voice-over talents, actors, and singers in the early stages of their careers dream of success. So, it’s a no-brainer to accept a few free jobs. Getting exposure and building an impressive resume takes time and work, so if the paying projects are not coming in fast enough, a few free gigs should work just as well. The following points can help you think about your decision to hand out freebies to others.

Your Talent and Time Are Valuable

As a talent, you know or will soon become aware of the cost of getting good voice coaches, attending acting classes, developing an impressive website, and other essentials of working professionals. All the trappings of running a business take time and money; this is a fact. Investing your time and talent can be extensive in your professional career. Each day can only be lived once, so it’s gone once you’ve given it away.

You Are Paying Your Bills

When you work for free, you pay all your costs in the hopes of receiving future, un-guaranteed compensation. Moreover, if you are injured in some way or lose out on a paying gig while working for free, you are losing your investment of time and money many times over. Likewise, if travel, food, clothing, and other expenditures are passed on to you, your shell-out may be more than you bargained for.

How You Feel is Important

If you are giving away something precious to you, like your time and talent, you may feel like you’re being used or not valued once you’ve gotten over the honeymoon stage. Unless you are fully committed to your not-for-profit work, you may feel some resentment or regret. Deal quickly with any regrets so you can complete what you’ve started. Always be a person of integrity, and learn from each experience.

Potential Reason for Freebee Work

Let’s end on a positive note. Donated voiceover and acting work can be gratifying and lead to great things for your business and you personally. Think about these things when considering going forward.

“Be nice to people on your way up because you’ll meet them on your way down.” Wilson Mizner

Build Important Relationships

Wilson Mizner, American playwright, raconteur, and entrepreneur, famously said, “Be nice to people on your way up because you’ll meet them on your way down.” No matter where you are in your business, developing relationships with industry pros and the like can change your life. Successful people in the industry often produce pilot projects or new pro bono undertakings. Moreover, participating in projects with other voice actors, directors, or local businesses is a great way to get your name out there. Working in new areas can be your cue to great opportunities. A new relationship and learning experience can be on the horizon.

For example, acting in plays or small films are a great way of learning about the on-camera world. Voice acting is acting. Therefore, the more opportunities you get to know about character development, acting, or being on a movie set, the more it can help you grow as a talent.

Giving to Worthy Causes

Amy Morin, in There Are Only 4 Times You Should Agree To Work For Free, says, “When there’s an opportunity to get involved in a cause you believe in, it may make sense to focus on what you can give, rather than what you will gain.” If donating your time and talent to a project or cause is fulfilling, by all means, fulfill that need.

Many organizations work with undeserved communities and those first entering the job market who could not excel without skilled volunteers. But there is a difference between honorably submitting yourself through volunteering and becoming an injured party by supporting someone else’s vision. Don’t let the dreams of others and their ambitions keep you from respecting your dream.

As a creative voice talent, I love the voiceover business. My experiences have helped me learn and grow as a person. Wanting to give back is a part of showing compassion for others. My above recommendations hopefully can help you make wise choices when choosing to work for free. Make the choices that will benefit you and others. Now, go out there and break that lip—# breakthatlip.

Be A Voiceover Problem Solver

September 20, 2023 by Leesha S

Are you a problem solver or a problem to work with? A good voice talent is a problem solver. Recently, I had an experience that showed the right and wrong way to solve a customer’s dilemma. If you want to help, learn what is needed and find a way to solve your client’s problem and not create a no-win situation.

Not long ago, I went to a local chain store looking for house candles. The day’s Weather Reports called for heavy rain and possible widespread power outages. So, I thought it was an excellent time to get some old-school candles in case the lights went out in my home. You see, I lost power for seven hours a few weeks ago. Therefore, preparing for a potential power loss seemed like a good idea.

So, in my efforts to be proactive, I visited a famous store that sold household and grocery items. Unable to find what I needed on my own, I asked a pinafore-clad employee for help. The employee returned a puzzled look in response to my question about the location of household candles. She then made an “educated guess” on where my requested items may be. My other opinion was to ask a different store worker for help. So, I asked another employee. She, too, could not help and admitted the store only carried decorative candles. But I was looking for utility or white candles, usually unscented. Either way, my problem went unsolved.

“If knowledge can create problems, it is not through ignorance that we can solve them.”
― Isaac Asimov

But then, I started to rethink my problem. What I really needed was a source of light that did not need an external power source. Then, ‘Bingo.’ I went to the camping supply section and found small lanterns and lights that use batteries. I had solved my problem.

Missed Opportunity

After this incident, I thought about the service I received from the store employees. None of the people I interacted with asked me more questions to understand my problem or provided me with options. They just wanted to get back to stocking the shelves. The employees are still probably restocking stocking shelves.

Take Note for Change

For the voice actor, we should never approach a potential client with an indifferent attitude. When we fail to understand a potential client’s needs or audition specs, we don’t address the problem. Voice talent do more than “stock virtual shelves.” We bring words to life through our unique script interpretation and give messages meaning. It’s a talent’s job not just to provide a product but to solve a problem.

Steps to Being Indispensable

There are many people in and out of the voice-over business daily. Many become discouraged by the changes threatened by technology. But, the focus of every voice actor business should be to solve the client’s problem. Solving problems can be done in four simple steps:

Listen or read to understand the problem or request
Make sure you know why there is a problem
Get or find the right tools, skills, and resources
Make sure you present a final solution (product) and if possible, beyond what is needed

And of course, whenever you have a deadline, you want to be early with your project. If you make it a point to understand the client and uniquely solve the problem, the client usually will seek you out for future help.

To end, always be available to supply a unique experience that will leave your clients impressed and looking to you to solve their VO project problems. That’s how you #breakalip.

How To Keep Grounded As A Voiceactor

August 2, 2023 by Leesha S

Woman Reaching while Grounded — Reach High, Stand Firm

The basics of voice acting stay the same. While styles, popular age, and other nuances may be ever-changing, the basics of voice acting are what they are. As voice actors and business owners, we must know our strengths and weaknesses. But we also need to understand what supports us and helps us move toward continued success. What keeps me going is not one stagnant thing. On the contrary, applying various methods keep me grounded to move toward voice-over and personal success.

Too Much Too Fast

We’re bombarded with news reports, advertisements, and unsolicited help every week. Humans are not equipped to keep up with floods of communication at the speed of light. The constant change and distractions we experience give most of us the attention span of a fly.

Healthcare industry influencer Steven Zauderer writes in a July 24th, 2023, article, Average Human Attention Span By Age: 47 Statistics, says “The average human has an attention span of just 8.25 seconds according to recent studies – 4.25 seconds less than in 2000.” Zauderer further writes, “The average human attention span decreased by nearly 25% between 2000 and 2015.” So, you might say, it’s hard to know what is means to be or how to stay grounded at least for very long.

Getting Grounded

It’s pretty standard nowadays to walk through an airport or busy metropolitan city and notice almost everyone on a smart device. When I see people staring glazed-eyed into smartphones, I wonder if they really know where they are or are aware of their surroundings. While it’s nice to be connected, the constant stream of information will hamper our ability to absorb all the information we need on any given topic.

In voiceovers, it’s essential to continue grounding ourselves through education, practice, and connections. Adding to our abilities and improving our skills may not be sexy and exciting, but it builds the foundation for a successful business.

“Grounding is most effective when you have some place to go. When you know where you are going, grounding brings strength and confidence, when you’re stagnant you get caught in the past.”

Tony Curl (Seriously Simple Stuff to Get You Unstuck)

Patience is still A Virtue

Patience in voice acting seems like an oxymoron, but it is not. We stay grounded as we apply what has been learned. If one has learned the appropriate skills for a successful voiceover career, some success will eventually come. There is no shortcut for hard work and continued development. Patience in the voice-over business may be the best way to secure your success for the long haul.

Make It A Family Thing

We voice actors are people; therefore, we need people. We need interaction with those in the business, those who can help us, and those who are NOT in the industry. The care coming from the right supporters can make us successful, console us in our times of failure, and replenish our souls.

Make sure you have associations with those who can keep you in the loop regarding trends in the voiceover industry. Moreover, make sure you know those who are experts in marketing or at least refresh your marketing techniques through education. It’s always smart to attend at least one in-person voiceover event every year to be around like-minded people.

Always make time for family and friends. Whether you’re married or single, you need time with people you like and love and those who like and love you. Time with close friends and family supports your mental health. We’ve had too much time alone thanks to the COVID-19 lockdowns.

Happiness [is] only real when shared.” Jon Krakauer

It’s time to continue restoring our personal and professional support groups. These associations and practices can keep us sane and creative voice talents. You may find that applying the above concepts will help you be more grounded leading you into being the best you can be as an excellent, long-term voice actor. #breakthatlip, #breakalip

For A Voice Talent, The Best Thing To Say Maybe Nothing At All

April 1, 2023 by Leesha S

Recently I returned from a vacation in Canada. After months of saving and preparation, I was finally at the place I had dreamed of for six months. It was a group trip of about 50 of us skiers and non-skiers. Depending on my mood, I can fall into both groups. During the trip, I received some odd comments from one of the ladies traveling with us. She asked whether I had a roommate because that was my preferred mode of travel and where I was sitting on the plane to our destination. When I asked this lady to take a photo of me overlooking a river in Vancouver, she remarked that she took the picture so that I would not be the center of attention. What? Okay!? I’m thinking it’s my phone/camera, so why shouldn’t I be the center of attention? Instead of stewing about the strange comments I was receiving from this almost total stranger, I refocused on what was most important, enjoying my long-planned vacation. I thought when confronted with harmful or contrary information, the best thing to say may be nothing at all.

Comment, Why?

As a voice talent, I read and scroll social media posts on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Often, I just read the comments and don’t lend my two cents. However, if I can comment with something of value and to help the situation, I post and express my thoughts. As a voice talent with a public platform, my comments are not just seen by my followers. So, I try to determine if I can improve the conversation or help solve an issue or problem. If my thoughts lead to negative or not-so-nice stuff, I keep it moving. I don’t need to join an already full choir of those venting about topics like Artificial Intelligence (AI), voiceover industry changes, or the price of home studio equipment. Comments are a good thing, but why?

Nobody likes A Faultfinder

In this life’s journey, we all are exposed to good and bad challenges. Those who show and express an appreciation for their success attract others to them because they have realized that showing off only gets you fake friends. I’m not sure why the lady on my trip was so concerned about my room accommodations or my seat on the plane, but I decided to keep a good attitude and not return the same probing questions. This person knew nothing about me and the journey I’ve taken as a voice-over talent or somebody in general. Seeing someone enjoying a nice trip is not a license to make assumptions about the person’s life or character. Therefore, I decided to take the events in strive and come home safe to my voiceover business.

Keep it Moving

As a voiceover talent, I know we encounter many unsolicited opinions and remarks. Directors who think we need to go back to school, harsh criticism of our new demos, beliefs based upon our appearance, and backlash of our social media posts are just a few examples of blow backs. On the other hand, many directors and voice-over professionals encourage each other, share what they have learned, and are generally a joy to work with and around as top talents.

“Great things happen to those who don’t stop believing, trying, learning, and being grateful.” Roy T. Bennett

When you encounter folks who may not have good things to say or write, try to look past the harsh responses. Working voice actors have to endure a lot of rejection, so try not to take the rejection personally. Sometimes it’s best to say nothing and count your blessings because you’re in the best profession in the world. You’re a voice actor! Go ahead, #breakthatlip

Breaking In or Breaking Through In Voiceovers

February 23, 2023 by Leesha S

February is celebrated in America as Black History Month. As a Black person, I’ve been studying history, including Black American History, for most of my life. Many of the programs and movies showing on streaming services highlight the lives and journeys of famous Afro-American actors and writers. Most of the programs also have commentators who tell their stories and how they identify with the famed person of color. These are feel-good stories of sorts. I thought about how in my family, the children were encouraged to break in and breakthrough. You see, if my parents or relatives accomplished a goal or some remarkable feat, those coming up behind them were expected to take what others had done to the next level. Not too much time was spent reflecting on what had been done, but more time was spent thinking of what one could do more significantly than what had already been done. Voiceovers are a lot like that. Don’t just break in, breakthrough as a voice talent.

In this changing society, new and improving voice actors should focus on breaking into and breaking through the business. It’s more than just making money; it’s making one’s own unique space in the voice-over industry. Becoming an authentic, sought-after talent is breaking through as a voice actor.

Reflect On The Past But Aim For The Future

Many of us have heard of Don LaFontaine, Mel Blanc, and Jean Vander Pyl. These voices are only a few of the many talents who have blazed trails in the voice-acting business over the decades. The names of many famous talents, who broke the voice-acting mold, will never graze our lips in casual conversation.

Voice actors should study the efforts and strides of talents of all races and backgrounds and then use that information to help shape their breakthrough journey. “Breaking in” stops you at the door. “Breaking through” leads you up the steps and paths of new challenges for greater success.

Voice talents are expected to do a good job no matter their level of experience. As a talent, you should always do your best and look for new leads and opportunities for voice work. Ace a style that you may be perfect for in a particular genre. See what talents and skills lie within you and find out how you can become the best at being you.

Breaking Through Is Hard

Don’t let words like “can’t, no, too hard, too old, not talented enough, or don’t know,” hold you back. Breaking through is about learning what one needs to learn and going for the job or assignment. What works for one voice talent may not work for another. So, find what works for you and do the hard work. Don’t let procrastination or fear rob you of your breakthrough moments.

In one of my first directed sessions, a comment made by a couple of the producers changed the timbre of the session for me. They remarked about how another voice actor was so easy to work with and took almost no time when being directed. As a talent in my second session, hearing producers sing the praises of another talent was not encouraging. In fact, the comments made me feel insecure, and the session did not go well for me. Later, I realized I can’t control comments made by producers, but I could control my behavior. I learned from this experience. Now when I’m in a directed session, I remind myself that I am working in my studio and on my time. I think to myself, “I am enough for THIS job.” It’s up to me if I want to do this job or not. Taking control of the session helps me break through and unleash my talent and success.

“Every success is built on the ability to do better than good enough.”
Zig Ziglar

No End To Real Breakthrough

Many famous people don’t achieve all their dreams and goals. If you were to interview history makers in entertainment at the end of their careers, many would say they have not achieved the success they wanted. Still, breakthrough people keep going forth and don’t spend too much time counting their former success. Part of that is why they are successful.

As a voice talent, it’s your job to become better than your last job. So, continue your learning and growing with the industry. Keep your chops, knowledge, and equipment ready to keep you competitive. Yes, acknowledge your success, but don’t stop growing. Keep moving forward as a voice actor, meeting the challenges, and growing your success. If you’ve reached your business goals, great. Now go make new ones.

Learn to review and appreciate the past achievements of others. But more importantly, learn from the break-in talent and push to make your breakthrough success.

Go ahead and break that lip! #breakthatlip

Speak your Truth as a Voiceactor

August 24, 2022 by Leesha S

Should your individual opinions affect your choices in voiceover projects? I recently read a blog related to truth, or should I say, statements reported as news in the American news media. The post was about how some people shrewdly use social and news media platforms to develop messages. These messages may contain misleading or belief-based information to sway receivers to a particular point of view. If accepted, the persuasive message may convince receivers that an opinion-based report is a fact.

I wondered how voice actors cope with questionable information they must communicate through scripts and projects. For example, how do you deal with voicing projects where you believe the information is askew? It’s one thing to listen to the news and read social media, but what if you’re voicing a message that is contrary to your values? The wrong answer can affect one’s finances. As a talent, define your standards of truth as a voice of integrity.
Nowadays people know the price of everything and the value of nothing.” Oscar Wilde

Set The Standards

To run a successful business, you must have standards within that business. Those standards govern what you can and should do to please a customer. So, first, become clear on what you prefer to voice as an actor; the rest is follow through. For example, I know actors specific on the types of reads they record and only voice those types. The actors are not biased in any way; they have simply decided what kinds of projects they will perform.

Times and thinking have changed a lot in the past five or even two years. Your standards should be top of mind throughout your daily business life. In Focusing on Your Core Values as a Small Business, Matt Wilson says, “And if you started your company a week ago or 10 years ago, I urge you to spend a bit of time considering just who you want your company to be and make sure that it is living up to your standards.”

Live With The Choices

When a voice actor hangs out the “For Hire” sign, they tell the world they are available for almost any project. But before a voiceactor is ready to work, they must be clear as to the tone of the business. Producers may not just judge you on your demo, but your previous projects and affiliations posted online may also be reviewed. You don’t have to pen a statement of values per se, but if you note on your public profiles the types of projects you enjoy and the work you want to voice, it’s a subtle way of letting others know your choices.

You also show your choices through social media followers, posts, and support. It’s a given today that someone will review your social media pages to see what you’re really about. So, make sure your post and support align with your principles.

Distance yourself from causes and pages that can give a bad and incorrect view of your business and who you are as a voice actor. Sometimes, it’s best not to participate in publicly bashing elected officials or celebrities. While you can have your point of view, making political statements as a voice actor and offending potential future clients may not be suitable for business.

Voice Integrity

You are the most intuitive as a voiceactor when you participate in projects you can agree with or believe in the message. Don’t take any job because money is slow. Your voice recording could be heard indefinitely, and you may become the talent that supports a particular position. In addition, if you believe in what you’re saying or selling, your read will go much better because you can connect with the message and why it’s important to others. Moreover, if you want to connect with a message, know what you want the listeners to feel, and that will come through in your voice.

I’m not saying you have to love aftershave cream or hard tack screws, but if the message is one you can believe in, such as the importance of aftershave cream and hard tack screws, you can voice the script with meaning and conviction.

Know What Fits For You

I know from experience that sometimes we get asked to do projects that don’t align our values even though the position is popular in the media. Going against the social media influencers or the messages in the news may seem like walking into a windstorm headfirst. But you cannot compromise yourself and still be an effective, emotive voiceactor.

Seek projects that you can proudly stand behind and would not be embarrassed if your parents or children recognized your voice. It may seem hard, and that’s because it is. You may have to walk away from some big-dollar jobs, but in the end, you’ll have done what’s right for your future.

Speak your truth at a voiceactor, and you’ll never have to lie about who you are or how you feel. Your feeling matter as a voice actor. Now, do what you do best as you #breakthatlip