I would like you to start with an internal question for just a moment. Something to think about. What thoughts come to your mind when someone says social media? Perhaps you associate it with enjoyment and relaxation. Perhaps due to work, you find it stressful. Maybe you consider it a pressure to keep up with. Well, whatever your thoughts are on social media one thing can not be debated and that is its place in the current world. Many voice actors avoid it entirely whilst others strictly use it for non-work-related purposes. That leaves one group who are happy to use it and leverage it favorably for their careers.
Voice Actors Guidebook for Social Media
Heavy persistence with those companies and individuals you want to work with is only going to scare them off. You can’t leave 100 likes on someone’s page and hope to book a job the next day. In fact, the person receiving your impromptu interactions may think it is odd and borderline intrusive. Instead, develop a relationship slowly and authentically. For example, if someone you want to develop a professional relationship with posts something of interest, join the conversation and constructively contribute. Over time continue to kindle that approach and eventually, they may become more familiar with you. You may or may not get the opportunity to audition for them depending on if they use social media for casting calls or if they send work to your agent. But should you meet them at a trade show, or should the conversation go in a favorable direction, you will find yourself ahead of your peers having already established a relationship.
What Do I Post on social media?
The biggest detractor people find is what to post. Well, what you had for breakfast this morning probably is not the most interesting topic. That said, everything is relative, if a massive part of your branding is nutrition, then maybe this is exceptionally relevant for your social media. The other consideration is not just what to post but also how often. Some people post multiple times a day whilst others post once a week. I think the sweet spot rests somewhere in the middle for most people. Influencers run social media like a full-time job but 99.9% of us don’t need to take that approach. The other thing to think about is that social media is a good avenue for you to invest in your voiceover community. Have you experienced anything other voice actors might benefit from? Maybe a recent challenge surrounding usage, AI, or connectivity? Whatever it is, someone else there can benefit from your experience.
The Whole Package – The Voice Actor Pro
Most businesses are on social media, it’s part of developing trust with the customer and educating the world on your values. As a voice actor, you are a business. So, though it may be a bit frustrating keeping up with it, instead, think of it as another admin task just like recording a receipt, sending a marketing blast, or updating a headshot. As you delve into social media you will find it adds value to your life. Being among like-minded people is liberating and as you invest in your industry you are also open to your industry investing in you. Though booking more work is awesome, learning, sharing, and enjoying the industry together is important as well.
Voice Actors and Social Media by Debbie Grattan