Real HumanThinking about attending a Voiceover Conference?
From VOAtlanta to Vocation to OneVoice, SOVAS, MAVO…there are a lot of them out there! But…are they worth it? Should you go if you’re a total newbie? A long-time working pro? Well, there are a whole lot of opinions out there when you ask those questions. I happen to live by “to each his or her own” and I don’t think there is one right answer. But I did want to share my own unique perspective in case it helps someone get a more positive conference experience.
My First Voiceover Conference
In 2023–after almost 20 years as a working voice actor–I FINALLY attended my first voiceover conference. Why did it take me so long? Well, that’s a long answer for another day. 😜 All I can say is that I wish I had done it sooner. I got back from conference #3 less than a month ago. I have gained so much from each one…from valuable knowledge to blossoming friendships. 💕
Each time, I’ve gotten a little bit better about how best to approach these things without getting completely burnt out or overwhelmed. I thought I would pass along those tips for anyone thinking of attending their first conference in the future. So, without further ado…here is one random voice actor’s….
DO’s and DON’Ts of VOICEOVER CONFERENCES!
✅ Do: KNOW YOUR LIMITS – These things are not for everyone–and that’s ok! There are plenty of other ways to learn and network. Find the ones that are right for you.
❌ Don’t: KNOCK IT UNTIL YOU TRY IT – Give it a try before you rule them out. I was shocked at just how much I got out of each one.
✅ Do: TREAT YOURSELF KINDLY – Speak positively to yourself and use that inner voice to build yourself up. That confidence will project outward and draw people to you.
❌Don’t: BEAT YOURSELF UP – I get it. I can be hard on myself too. But please remind yourself that we are all at different places in our journey and you are okay…wherever you are.
✅ Do: PROTECT YOUR VOICE – Conferences involve a whole lot of talking and often in loud settings. Take breaks, drink plenty of water, and take care of that “money-maker”!
❌Don’t: OVER SCHEDULE YOURSELF – While it’s important to take advantage of the learning opportunities offered, remember that down time (and time to connect with colleagues) is also crucial.
✅ Do: PACK SNACKS AND LAYERS – I learned this one the hard way. Conferences tend to take place in hotels–where the temperature varies wildly and the food is expensive!
❌ Don’t: BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU HEAR – I’m not saying that anyone is being purposely deceitful. What I mean is that, we all have our own perspectives but often tend to present them as if they are absolutes. Remember that it’s valuable to listen to many people’s thoughts and ideas and decide which ones resonate with you. There is no ONE way to go about this career.
✅ ❌ DO or DON’T: BRING A TRAVEL RIG: Speaking of doing what is right for you…this very much applies to the whole travel rig question. Many voice actors travel with them and many don’t. This is completely up to you and where you are in your career, whether you want to just be in “conference-mode”, etc.
Say Hello!
I hope these suggestions were helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to email me and I’d be happy to help. And if you DO see me at a conference, please come and say hello!
