Do You Have Fresh Batteries In Your Voiceover BS Detector? – The GKN Weekly Update 3/18/14

In the 20+ years I’ve been pursuing acting (theater, film, TV, and voice), I’ve had the pleasure of encountering many wonderful people, businesses, casting sites, and representation. I’ve also had my share of bad experiences. Too many to share and a few of them quite embarrassing where I’ve lost time, money, and a teensy bit of my soul.

If nothing else, I’ve learned that being a good listener is critical to navigating the waters of this industry. Specifically, to always have fresh batteries in your BS detector.

(BTW this is a term I’ve recently discovered and I now I sit home all day trying to figure out ways to use it in conversation. Pitiful, right?)

BS comes from many sources in this industry. The most common ones are some of your fellow voice talents, puffing themselves up by bleating their supposed accomplishments all over social media or at networking events. Annoying, but harmless.

BS also comes from some voice coaches and demo producers, promising fame and riches if you fork over hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars.

The BS I feel is the most damaging are from certain less-than-reputable casting sites. Take for instance, the phone call I received from one of them last week. Here are some excerpts from the conversation…

Casting Site Putz #1: On a scale of 1 to 10, how badly do you want to be a successful actor?

Me: I am a successful actor.

(pause)

Casting Site Putz #1: …terrific! May I transfer you?

Casting Site Putz #2: Nice headshot! You’re a handsome man.

Me: Please delete my account.

Sigh.

TIP OF THE WEEK

Man, did that piss me off. Like I said, being a good listener is critical to success in all facets of life, especially in the massively ego-driven entertainment industry. We all like to be told we’re smart, funny, good-looking, etc. However, please keep in mind that there are those out there who will cravenly prey upon your ego to take your money. Always keep fresh batteries in your BS detector!