So you want to get into the Voice over “Business”? You had better understand that last part!
Yesterday, I was lucky enough to be signed to a very popular talent Agency. If you have followed my posts or possibly my Voice Over podcast The VO Meter you know I am still a relative “newcomer” to the business. I have had some success, and was even lucky enough to be signed to several agencies within my first year. This particular agency, however, has eluded me. Sure, I sent submissions, several times, but never heard so much as a peep back. Always, undeterred, until I actually hear the word “no” (and truthfully not always then) I kept looking for ways to make another impression to this highly coveted voiceover group.
As it turns, out, the “secret” as it were, was really easy, and something I’ve known from my earliest days of business marketing.
I saw the owner of this agency on a webcast, where it was mentioned that they only sign talent, when they receive a direct referral from one of the voice talent already on their roster. Huge “DO’H” moment for me. I know this method of business to business marketing, heck I LO VE this method. I’ve nearly built my whole business around referral marketing. After all, there is no better sales lead, than a direct referral!
So, I looked at the agency roster and actually found several VO friends. The trick now, was finding someone I hadn’t already bothered about a business referral! I saw my good friend Ken Foster: http://kenfostersvoice.com/ was a member of the roster. I asked him if he wouldn’t mind making an introduction. He did not, shockingly, and even sent an email to his agent the same day. I got a response not even 1 hour later! I was signed, and the rest is history…or will be shortly…I hope.
The moral of the story? Voice over, is a BUSINESS. The reason I even know Ken, was because he was one of the first people I met at the Mid Atlantic Voice Conference in 2016. Short sidebar, registration is open for MAVO 2018, and I highly recommend you go. Val Kelly and her team to a fantastic job at this “micro conference” Details here: https://www.midatlanticvo.com/
Ken and I immediately hit if off, found out he lives a few miles from my cousin, and we were friends ever since. He’s even appeared on the podcast! The point is, I made that connection because I was marketing my business! Paid to attend the conference, made the trip and was really rewarded, not only with all the great experiences at the conference, but over a year later, with Ken’s referral.
Finally, though I’ve been speaking about business, I would be remiss if I didn’t again speak about how great the VO community is. I can’t thank Ken enough for his assistance, and I hope to return the favor soon. As I was welcomed “into the family” by my new agency, I couldn’t help but smile, because that is exactly what it feels like.