Perception= reality

You have heard of the placebo effect right? Well I believe negative words and negative environments can cause the same thing in a person’s life if they don’t identify the problem. A spouse a family member or friend can offer you bad advice that can hold you back from being successful. John F. Kennedy had a rather odd view of himself; he wasn’t very self confident- his brother Ted told his brother, who cares what you think! It’s what people perceive you to be. Lots of truth to that. Create a positive environment around you, surround yourself with positive people that can keep you motivated and connected to where the action is. Positive and success like each other. So keep a smile on your face, keep your eye on the ball and never stop growing into a successful business man or woman. Your perception of yourself is important, but what others think, is equally important. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

VO super star

It makes me laugh when I see how many voice-overs produced in the U.S. are from no names! Yes they have a name...But the industry hasn’t awarded them with any sparkling trophies or trips to Vegas. And this is the case with thousands of people in the industry that may never get the acclaim. Don’t let that be your focus, yes be excellent and pursue the big agencies and the high paying gigs...Don’t get sucked into thinking you’re not good if you don’t win a golden trophy for your work. There are plenty of successful people doing well for themselves in market 100 knocking on doors, sending CD’s out and scoring some nice opportunities because they wanted the work. So I say be a VO super star wherever you may be, you are here by awarded this gold medallion for all you do! http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

So you want to be a voice-over artist

One of the first things I ask a prospect exploring voice-overs is why? Here is what I get most of the time. People tell me I have a good voice, my boy friend or girl friend says I would be good at the business, or my mother says I should be on the radio. The most important question I could ask a prospect is what do you think of you doing voice-overs? Many say they don’t know great answer! I like to teach individuals that want to learn the art of voice-over, willing open participants desiring to learn a craft that could make them money. So you want to be a voice-over artist… great! I hope you like hearing your own voice, because you will be hearing it quite often and as a matter of fact most every day in one form or another. Do ego’s help, sure they do, just keep humble in the studio ;-)

The amount of practice for truly professional talent adds up to be in the thousands of hours and multiplied. This is not an overnight get rich scheme, so STOP if that’s what you’ve been told. Can you make a really good living you bet! I believe in purpose, keep asking yourself why, and if it adds up that this is your main passion, there’s no stopping you in the voice-over universe. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Rejection, do I suck?

Do you wound easily? Then Voice-overs may not be for you! It’s all part of this dog and pony show. It would be so nice to know exactly how the producer thought for every project but that’s just not likely unless you are a mind reader. So toughen up and break a mic! The fact is… if you are going to get better you will need to have some doors slam shut. Now it’s not always that you sucked, it’s just not what the casting director envisioned for the scrip. Now if the door is closing way, way too many times, perhaps there’s something going on with your performance, or your demo told them something different that you just cannot pull off.

Not all auditions should you cast for, knowing what you’re exceptional at and what you’re not so hot at, should give you a rough idea as to what you should be aiming for. Now if you are still fearful take a breath and remember that you are a commodity, some will go for you , and others will pass you by, not to worry, it’s all part of what we Voice-artisans go through on a weekly bases. Have fun is still a great business ;-) http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

It’s another Friday

Just so everyone knows about my blog postings, I was hesitant at first to daily let alone blog at all because of all the hype already out there. The reason I find it necessary to say so much is to share my thoughts and experiences so hopefully you will be more inspired and encouraged to pursue a voice-over career with passion that inspires others. It is really a blessing that so many seek me out for advice regarding agencies agents, listening to demos and just listening!

I am certainly glad that there is many more like me in the industry that treat others respectfully and conduct their business with integrity and want to pass on what they know to others that eagerly want to make a go of it themselves. I will be 40 in January…I have been proud to have worked with some of the industry’s top names or have spoken to them on the phone about what bonds us together. Have I arrived as the all and all of voice-overs? Lol! Not yet, but believe I’m on my way…how about you? http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Networking in Voice-overs?

There are so many places to share your day in’s and day out’s these days, what difference do these sites really make? Professionally speaking, you’re not going to tip off your competition as to what agency you’re working with on what project. Many would be envious, and start dialing right behind you!!! marks my words. Be careful as to what information you share, and what content you allow to be seen and heard.

I do believe in friendly banter and connecting with likeminded people, all positive...Just keep in mind what you share and how you share it could end up helping or hurting you. So my rule of thumb is this, tell how you are faring through your projects and scoring another gig, just don’t mention with whom, unless you want to tip others off to your source. I like sharing, but in business to keep my work above reproach on all accounts. http://www.57thstreetmedia.com

Don’t kid yourself!

If you have worked in the industry as I have for the past 23 years things have changed, and loyalties are not what it used to be! When you hit a winning streak and you feel you’re unstoppable, stop and get a grip. I won’t mention any names but many big names have had the carpet pulled out from under them, with not a hint of why! Don’t get to comfortable with your agency…clients come and go; you on the other hand have to keep producing. My recipe is a constant evaluation of marketing. You need to revamp, reinvent, and keep up with lightening speed in this fast paced media age. Some of you have made really good money with your craft and understand the eggs in one basket = stupidity long term. Patience, persistency and a little good luck coming your way all does help. So remember keep your head on, don’t get to complacent about your position enjoy it and keep your eyes on the big picture... Building your business! http://www.57thstreetmedia.com