This is a question that I ask myself very often.

Ours is a quite solitary job… and it’s easy to become isolated. If you work with other people in your same field in an office, you’re likely to feel more support, more social interaction, and even receive feedback that helps you evolve professionally. In our job, this is sometimes challenging. And everyone needs to find their own balance. Working from home is comfortable, practical, and cheap… but is it good for our health? And for our career?

Perhaps virtue, as often happens, lies in the middle.

I’ve been in Portugal, in the Sintra area, for some time. And I’m using a nearby coworking space. Since I arrived, Portugal has been treating me wonderfully; I highly recommend coming here. It’s no wonder that my “remoter” colleagues have proclaimed Lisbon as the number 1 destination on Nomadlist, taking its flagrant first place away from Bali.

In any case, what I was getting at is that I’ve been reflecting for a long time on the way I work. Always from home. And this gives me both comfort and discomfort at the same time. Coworking spaces are expensive, I told myself every time I thought about changing this dynamic. And it’s true, most of them are. But they are also starting to realize that there are many more people with different profiles working remotely. And that makes them offer more flexible weekly or daily rates. Here, for example, working a couple of days a week, choosing the coworking space you want (and changing if you feel like it), will cost you about 100 euros per month. And this is sustainable for me, and for my mental health.

When recording in a home studio, we always tend to think, “Why should I spend money on a coworking space if I can record comfortably from the studio at home?” And you’re not wrong, but in our job, the percentage of time we dedicate solely to recording is quite small, let’s be honest. Between editing, marketing, SEO, and administrative tasks, more than 60-70% of our time goes into that. And you could do that elsewhere, change the scenery, see other people, make connections (and a bit of networking, which is never a bad thing). What if you were more productive outside your home? Because, in my opinion, separating your workspace from your personal life directly impacts your well-being, or at least that’s been my experience.

What about yours?

 

#travelling #voiceover #blog #coworking #voicelikevelvet #voiceactor #voiceacting #isolation

The other day, while I was digging through articles about the profession, I stumbled upon something that hit me hard. It really got me thinking, and quite a few of the pointers were things I had on my mind, waiting for a little nudge, much like the one I got from this article. It’s a treasure trove of insights from a seasoned voiceover artist with an extensive and diverse professional journey. Armando Plata Camacho, a Colombian voice artist, dishes out some real talk about the essentials for any pro in this field.

I thought I’d share these tips with you, hoping they might spark the same spirit of continual improvement that they did for me. Check out these 46 tips that can transform you into a top-notch voiceover artist:

1. Let your creed as a voiceover artist be grounded in ethics, excellence, integrity, respect, discipline, conviction, security, and passion.
2. Remember, you’re not just a player in the industry; you’re a magician creating enchanting projects.
3. Your voice is your identity, your emotions. Be authentic. Be yourself.
4. Keep that ego in check. There’s no such thing as a good or bad voice. You’re not the best, nor the worst.
5. Experience doesn’t automatically mean superiority. You could be making the same mistake over and over again.
6. Listen, respect, help, and learn from the younger folks. That’s how you stay relevant.
7. Being the voice of the moment is temporary.
8. Your voice serves the producer. Always follow their lead.
9. Don’t let success or failure get to your head. Stay humble and down-to-earth.
10. Not every project is a match for you, and you’re not the right fit for every project either.
11. Dubbing work is like the Ivy League for voice-over artists.
12. Keep experimenting with your voice. Embrace the madness that fuels our work.
13. Understand your strengths and weaknesses like the back of your hand.
14. Rejection is part of the game. Learn to handle it, and use it as fuel to keep pushing forward.
15. Voice-over work is unpredictable. Don’t judge your progress weekly or monthly; look at the bigger picture annually.
16. Manage your time efficiently and always seek profitability.
17. In some places, it’s more lucrative to work as a company rather than an individual.
18. Get a grip on the basics of business and administration.
19. Explore new markets. Use the power of media to your advantage: think radio, TV, cable, advertising agencies, creative boutiques, video developers, audiobook companies, translation firms, and more.
20. Avoid getting stuck in one place for too long. Embrace change to expand your network and experiences. Say no to monotony.
21. Be wary of overexposure, especially if you’re branded as “the official voice” of something.
22. Say no to projects that could tarnish your image: psychic ads, adult content, etc. Steer clear of Text To Speech (TTS) gigs too.
23. Seek guidance on technology, marketing, branding, and trends.
24. Invest in a producer for your demos. If the big shots are doing it, why shouldn’t you?
25. Stay curious, take risks, and be bold. Don’t get stuck in a rut; always strive for more.
26. Study the styles of the most sought-after voices. Don’t copy them, but adapt their techniques to your own style.
27. Overcome your insecurities, fears, and selfishness. Share your knowledge and experiences with your peers. It’s a path to growth and fulfillment.
28. Embrace the richness of multiculturalism. Think globally and don’t limit yourself to your roots.
29. Create projects that give you global exposure and free publicity.
30. Let your unique talents shine through in your demos.
31. Set aside 15 to 25% of your income for education, branding, and marketing.
32. Aim to save 10 to 20% of your earnings.
33. Your website is your storefront. Your demos showcase your strengths and weaknesses. They’re the keys to your success.
34. Invest in SEO to boost your website’s visibility.
35. Build strategic partnerships with voice artists worldwide. Join international associations and attend conferences.
36. Tune into radio and TV from various countries. Listen closely, even if you don’t understand the language, and learn from different voices and languages.
37. Create your networking strategy. Take inspiration from Dale Carnegie’s “How to Win Friends and Influence People.”
38. Trust your instincts.
39. Aim for global recognition in talent agencies, casting companies, translation firms, voice banks, freelance platforms, recording studios, post-production facilities, web developers, and wherever there’s demand for professional voice services.
40. Make the most of LinkedIn for your voice-over marketing. Consider investing in premium plans for direct access to decision-makers.
41. Your future hinges on the excellence of your work.
42. If you’re resisting change and constantly reminisce about the “good old days,” you might be on the path to decline.
43. Nostalgia can be deceptive and limiting.
44. Focus on what’s ahead rather than dwelling on the past.
45. Be transparent. Your talents may be exceptional, but your lasting reputation depends on word of mouth, client reviews, and recommendations from your peers.
46. Your market is as big as your network. Whether it’s local or global, your circle shapes your opportunities.

 

You can find the original article (in Spanish) for more insights here.

I’m already putting these tips into practice myself!

 

#travelling #voiceover #blog #voicelikevelvet #voiceactor #voiceacting#tips

Entrepreneurship is often romanticized as an exciting journey filled with innovation and achievement. However, beneath the surface lies a lesser-discussed reality – the loneliness that many entrepreneurs, especially those in the voiceover industry, experience. The isolating nature of being a solo business owner can take a toll on mental well-being and creativity. In this article, we will dive into the unique loneliness that entrepreneurs in the voiceover field face and provide actionable tips to overcome this challenge.

 

The Loneliness of the Voiceover Entrepreneur: While the voiceover industry offers a flexible and creative outlet, it also demands long hours of solitary work. Spending hours recording scripts, editing audio, and managing the business side of things can leave entrepreneurs feeling disconnected from the outside world. Unlike traditional office settings, where colleagues provide social interactions, voiceover artists often find themselves working in solitude, which can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even burnout.

 

Tips for Overcoming Voiceover Loneliness:

1. Build a Supportive Network: Cultivate relationships with fellow voiceover artists, either through online communities, social media groups, or local meetups. Connecting with like-minded professionals who understand the challenges you face can provide a sense of camaraderie and emotional support.
2. Engage in Industry Events: Attend voiceover conferences, workshops, and webinars. These events not only offer opportunities to learn and grow professionally but also allow you to meet others in your field. Interacting with peers can help alleviate the sense of isolation and create lasting connections.
3. Mentorship and Collaboration: Seek out mentorship from experienced voiceover entrepreneurs who have navigated similar challenges. Collaborating on projects with others can not only enhance creativity but also provide a shared experience that combats loneliness.
4. Set Boundaries and Routine: Establish a structured daily routine that includes work hours, breaks, and personal time. Maintaining a clear boundary between work and leisure helps prevent overworking and gives you time to engage in social activities.
5. Utilize Online Platforms: Leverage technology to connect virtually with colleagues and friends. Video calls, virtual coffee chats, and co-working sessions can help simulate the social interactions you might miss from a traditional workplace.
6. Physical Activity and Hobbies: Engage in physical activities or hobbies outside of your voiceover work. Whether it’s joining a sports club, practicing yoga, or taking up painting, these activities provide opportunities to meet new people and combat loneliness.
7. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being by practicing self-care techniques. Meditation, journaling, and engaging in activities that bring joy can help counteract feelings of isolation.
8. Seek Professional Support: If loneliness begins to impact your mental health significantly, don’t hesitate to seek help from a mental health professional. Therapy or counseling can provide strategies to manage loneliness and build resilience.

 

#voiceover #blog #workingalone #voicelikevelvet #voiceactor #loneliness #entrepreneur

Living in a tropical paradise, waking up every morning on an island surrounded by rice fields and cinematic sunset beaches. Walking around in flip-flops and swimsuits, sipping coconuts, and zipping around on a scooter. Yes, the dream can be as real as you want it to be, if you’re willing to dare. It’s the most sought-after refuge in this new era, and for all the right reasons. Being there, on a tropical island, is like inhabiting a parallel planet, a place to gaze from afar at any global crisis.

These three tips will help you regain time, energy, and your creative touch in your daily life. Especially if, like me, you feel like there’s never enough time, your workload is overwhelming, or your mind is spinning like a carousel from one project to another.

 

Ditch the To-Do Lists. Embrace Time Lists: Let’s face it, to-do lists are never-ending. As soon as you check one item off, three more get added. To be more efficient, instead of traditional to-do lists, why not create Time Lists?

Separate your pending tasks and prioritize them. Assign specific time slots to the most important tasks. This way, your mind isn’t constantly worrying about all the tasks you haven’t gotten to because they’re on your schedule. With this method, you prioritize the crucial tasks and avoid getting caught up in smaller ones. Let’s be realistic – we fill the time we have. So, if I have only 30 minutes to respond to emails, I’ll take 30 minutes. But without a set time limit, those same emails could occupy my entire morning. Most importantly, you’ll feel like you’re making progress.

A Time List lets you accomplish more important tasks in less time.

 

Take Breaks Between Tasks: Research shows that it takes the brain about five to seven minutes to complete and close a task. When you switch from one task to another or from one meeting to another, your brain still carries mental residues from previous tasks, conversations, and meetings. This can overwhelm you and prevent you from being fully present. This lack of presence harms your productivity, your ability to connect with others, and diminishes innovative thinking.

Between tasks or meetings, take a break to clear your mind. Meditation or movement work wonders. Sit quietly for 10 minutes, practice breathing exercises, take a walk around the office, or do some stretches. Avoid talking or using social media – these only add to mental clutter.

Breaks involving movement or short meditations reduce stress while boosting creativity.

 

Overflowing with Ideas: This is one of the most creative techniques I’ve come across, and it’s incredibly useful. Place a large cube (like a popcorn bucket) on your desk, along with a stack of sticky notes. Whenever an idea strikes you about your podcast, a magazine, a new app, furniture purchase, researching a book, a TV show, etc., write it on a sticky note and toss it into the cube.

No, you won’t follow through with most of these ideas. But your brain loves practicing and receiving validation. Essentially, the more ideas you generate, the more adept your brain becomes at creatively problem-solving and critical thinking. Your brain also craves validation. Jotting down all your ideas, even the most extravagant ones, gives your brain the validation it needs to keep producing ideas. So, when you need innovation and creativity the most, your mind will be prepared and well-trained. That’s why trying to spark innovation only in certain moments doesn’t work. It’s challenging to ask for innovation when you’ve spent hours suppressing it. Give this technique a try and watch the results!

Tossing ideas into the cube unlocks an incredible flow of innovative thinking, helping you work smarter.

 

These three tips offer practical solutions to the common challenges faced by voiceover freelancers when it comes to managing time and maintaining focus. By embracing Time Lists, taking breaks, and fostering creative overflow, you can enhance your productivity, preserve mental clarity, and excel in your voiceover freelance journey.

 

#travelling #voiceover #blog #focus #voicelikevelvet #voiceactor #time #VOtips

Being a traveling voice actor is like a rollercoaster of awesome and tough moments. It’s where what you do becomes what you love, or maybe what you love becomes what you do (I’m a bit fuzzy on that order, honestly). When I jumped into this gig, my life got flipped, turned upside down, and let me tell you, no one can really prepare you for it. It’s a challenge that’s hard to put into words. And if freelancing is new to you, well, buckle up because it’s a whole new level. Patience becomes the key as you step into this completely different world.

And speaking of dedication, this career demands big amounts of it. You gotta know it’s a marathon, not a sprint. But here’s the deal: a top-notch voice actor? They’re having a blast doing what they do. Personally, I think getting paid for your passion is like hitting the jackpot of jobs.

In the dynamic world of voice-over production, there’s an untapped treasure that can bring a new dimension of authenticity and charm to your projects: voice-over accents diversity. Imagine the impact of infusing different accents into your narratives, commercials, animations, and more. This article sheds light on the incredible value that diverse accents can add to your creative endeavors and why it’s a strategic move that production professionals should embrace.

 

The Captivating Allure of Accents

Accents have an enchanting ability to transport listeners across continents, immerse them in cultures, and evoke emotions that resonate on a deeper level. Whether it’s a British accent conveying sophistication, a Spanish accent adding warmth, or a Brazilian accent imbuing vitality, each accent carries its own unique narrative. By integrating various accents into your voice-over projects, you’re inviting your audience to embark on a rich and diverse auditory journey.

 

Authenticity and Relatability

In today’s globalized world, audiences crave authenticity. Accents are an indispensable tool to create a genuine connection with listeners. An authentic accent infuses characters and scripts with life, making them relatable and believable. When a character’s accent aligns with their background, it not only adds depth but also resonates with individuals who share that cultural heritage. Authentic accents bridge the gap between storytelling and reality, enhancing the immersive experience for your audience.

 

Breaking Boundaries with Diversity

Incorporating voice-over accents diversity is more than just a creative choice—it’s a transformative step towards inclusivity and representation. By featuring a range of accents, you acknowledge the rich tapestry of cultures and voices that exist in the real world. Your projects become a platform to celebrate diversity, challenge stereotypes, and foster a sense of belonging among your audience. A diverse cast of voices reflects the mosaic of society, contributing to a more vibrant and culturally aware production.

 

Making an Impactful Choice

As production professionals, you hold the reins to crafting narratives that resonate. Choosing to incorporate voice-over accents diversity is a powerful decision that can elevate your project from ordinary to extraordinary. It shows that you’re attuned to the pulse of your audience and that you value their varied experiences. Whether it’s a corporate video, an animated series, or an e-learning module, embracing diverse accents can make your content stand out, leaving a lasting impression.

 

Finding the Perfect Blend

When seeking voice actors for your projects, consider partnering with professionals who specialize in a range of accents. Collaborating with experts ensures that each accent is executed flawlessly, maintaining the integrity of your narrative. Take time to understand the nuances of accents and how they align with your project’s goals. With the right blend of authenticity and creativity, your voice-over accents diversity initiative will yield remarkable results.

 

In conclusion, voice-over accents diversity is an invaluable tool in your production arsenal. It breathes life into characters, deepens narratives, and fosters a sense of unity among diverse audiences. By embracing accents from around the world, you’re not just creating content; you’re crafting experiences that resonate and leave a lasting impact. So, take the leap and unlock the transformative potential of voice-over accents diversity in your next project. Your audience will thank you for it.

 

#authenticity #voiceover #blog #voicelikevelvet #voiceactor #traveling #accents #diversity