I'm in!

[jay_webb]

Hi everyone.

I've only been reading posts for a few days and now I'm ready to be hooked. I've been on a few other forums in the last few years that absolutely drew me in and I ended up posting like crazy instead of doing real work! I'll try to restrain myself this time.

In the way of a little info about my VO background...I know, this is a bit weird I guess...I have around 14 years of VO experience under my belt, but have never actually been "in the biz" until recently. I'm a video producer (and house voice) in the advertising dept at a cable company. So I've been on both sides of the glass for awhile. Unfortunately, I haven't been well-compensated for my VO efforts at my job, since it's PART of my job (and it's CABLE, after all). So now I'm ready to branch out...I'm new to the whole marketing thing (and wondering how I'll do at that). I'm keeping the producer job for now, but would like to replace it at some point.

ANYhooo, I've enjoyed reading posts and seeing budding friendships going on. I hope I can be part of all of that. So I'll see ya 'round 'eh?

--Jay

[WayneLHenderson]

Welcome to the boards Jay. Glad to have read your story. Your continuing story would make a great addition to my Voice-Over Journey podcast. If you would be so kind, I would love to include you telling your story. You could send an mp3 recording of your story to Wayne@WayneLHenderson.com , or just call and leave a voice-mail at the show's listener line at (206) 350-4610.

Just a thought. Together, here on the boards, and perhaps on the podcast, we can all arrive at a nice voice-over career.

Wayne
VoiceOverJourney.Libsyn.com

[SueColas]

Welcome, Jay.

[JoeActor]

Hey Jay,

Glad to have someone with your experience on the board.

Welcome!,
Joe J Thomas
Joe J. Thomas Acting Portfolio (http://www.JoeActor.com)

[jay_webb]

Thanks Wayne, Sue & Joe. I'm glad to be able to join in.

Now, as far as "experience" I'm sure wishing I had some major MARKETING experience! I'm reading all I can and getting some sense of the field. This is a difficult step for my non-business brain! I'm intending to get some formal training on the subject and proceed from there. Being that I've been producing advertising all these years at my job, it gives me at least some general sense of direction and I've picked up some pointers from this site as well...I consider this a very valuable resource...total PRAISE for the internet and voiceovers.com!

It's probably already been done, but I'd love to read some comments from anyone who wants to share their experience in moving through the marketing minefield...private replies are welcome too, if anyone would rather do that.

I hope to eventually be able to give back in the same way as my own career progresses...I'm no "coach" or anything, but I don't mind sharing what I know.

--Jay

[JoeActor]

Hey Jay,

Marketing can be a tough nut to crack. I'm constantly thinking and working on new angles. Can't say if I've come up with a solid "branding" yet, but I've got my web site (with a memorable name), and even experimented with some on-the-spot marketing.
http://www.voice-overs.com/forum/general-voice-over-chit-chat/392-joeactor-car.html

Another factor is where you are located. Some techniques work better in different markets. For example, if I park my car outside a studio while I'm recording, I've got a better chance in LA that the message will be seen than in other towns.

Someday I hope to get a call while I'm driving from a casting agent behind me on the highway!

Cheers,
Joe J Thomas
Joe J. Thomas Acting Portfolio (http://www.JoeActor.com)

Check out this thread on my car for a peek:

[jay_webb]

Bummer...couldn't get to the car picture Joe. Mind posting it again for us newbies?

[JoeActor]

Bummer...couldn't get to the car picture Joe. Mind posting it again for us newbies?
oops! Let's try this image of my JoeActor mobile:
http://www.joeactor.com/images/JoeActor_Car_640x480.jpg

Added bonus - I can remember who I am by looking in the rear-view mirror!

Cheers,
Joe J Thomas
www.JoeActor.com (http://www.JoeActor.com)

[karen]

re: I'm hooked:

I know! This is a great forum, isn't it? Welcome! I'm a newbie who hangs around learning the ropes. Lots of fun. Look forward to reading your posts ...

Karen

[jay_webb]

Thanks Karen!

Yes, when it comes to message boards where one has a high degree of interest in the subject matter, it can be quite addictive. Some folks from my high school days started a yahoo group for our class...we recently had a reunion...man!...I had a hard time getting any work done for a while because of that one. That group was all just general discussion. At least here as newbies we can take the opportunity so graciously given to us by pros to learn a thing or two about the business of VO.

Thanks pros!

--Jay