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Mics, Mingling, and Magic:
The Networking Playbook for Voice Actors
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By Rudy Gaskins, September 15, 2024
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For many voice actors, networking can feel like a daunting challenge. As solo entrepreneurs, you already spend the majority of your time in a home studio, communicating via social media, with little face-to-face human interaction. Unlike employees in corporate institutions, who may attend conferences sponsored by their employers and where they can connect with co-workers, voice actors often have to navigate professional gatherings on their own. They must juggle multiple hats (creative talent, business owner, marketer) while learning how to expand their professional networks. However, for those serious about advancing their careers, conferences are a must. Attending conferences is crucial as they provide invaluable opportunities to network, learn from industry leaders, gain fresh insights, and build relationships that can lead to collaborations and job opportunities. All of these opportunities are made possible by networking at all levels of the voiceover paradigm, and it happens before, during, and after the conference itself.
Yet, despite the importance of networking, many voice actors approach it with misconceptions that can hinder their success. The key to effective networking is understanding that it is not an immediate path to securing a job but a long-term strategy for building mutually beneficial relationships. As Deepak Chopra says, “The best way to achieve success is to be of service to others.” This essay will explore the art of smart networking in the voice acting profession, particularly in the context of conferences, and how it can be a powerful tool for career advancement.
Understanding the Power of Conferences
Conferences serve as a rare convergence of talent, decision-makers, and industry experts who are typically inaccessible during day-to-day work. Events like That’s Voiceover!™ Career Expo offer a goldmine of learning opportunities and an environment where attendees can interact directly with top producers, casting directors, and agents who may otherwise remain elusive. One very new opportunity that is completely novel to the voice acting conference, and perhaps to conferences in general, comes from That’s Voiceover!™ Career Expo. The producers of this conference have gone directly to buyers to secure job opportunities, real-world auditions, and try-outs that are exclusively available to conference attendees. This unprecedented inclusion of real-world employment does two remarkable things: It creates a powerful context for understanding the relationship between theory, as posed by presentations, panel discussions, and workshops, and the possibility for actual employment. In other words, theory becomes reality.
As Tony Robbins famously said, “The only limit to your impact is your imagination and commitment.” At conferences, the theoretical knowledge gained from workshops and panel discussions is directly applicable to real-world scenarios, bridging the gap between learning and tangible outcomes. This integration of practical opportunities with theoretical insights allows voice actors to see the immediate relevance of networking and skill-building activities.
The Misconception of Immediate Gains
A common mistake many voice actors make when attending conferences is expecting instant results. They may assume that simply shaking hands with a casting director or exchanging business cards with a producer will land them a job. But networking is rarely about instant gratification. True success in networking comes from planting seeds that will bear fruit over time. And planting seeds means getting your hands dirty, tilling the soil, nurturing the ground, and tending to seedlings.
Networking is about building trust and credibility, which rarely, if ever, happens in a rush. The relationships you form at a conference evolve organically, and with consistent effort, those connections can lead to unexpected opportunities down the road. The opportunity here is to reframe their thinking: instead of viewing networking as a way to secure a job, they can see it as a way to foster relationships that may benefit both parties over the long-term. By focusing on the long-term value of relationships, voice actors can cultivate a network that will support and enhance their careers for years to come.
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Offering Value: The Heart of Networking
The most effective networkers understand that the best way to forge connections is by offering value. Voice actors should think about what they can provide to others, whether it’s industry insights, creative collaboration, or simply lending an empathetic ear. When you focus on helping others achieve their goals, they are more likely to reciprocate in the future.
At conferences, the opportunities to offer value are endless. If you strike up a conversation with a fellow attendee who is struggling with a particular aspect of their business, offer your perspective. Share helpful resources or contacts that might assist them. If you’re speaking with a producer or casting director, ask thoughtful questions that show you’re genuinely interested in their work, not just in what they can do for you.
The best relationships are built on mutual respect and benefit. When you approach networking with a mindset of generosity, you position yourself as someone people will remember and someone they want to work with in the future.
The Role of Active Listening
One of the most overlooked aspects of smart networking is the ability and the intension to listen actively. Too often, people attend conferences with the goal of talking about themselves and promoting their work. While self-promotion is important, it should never overshadow the value of truly listening to others.
When you listen to someone’s challenges, needs, and aspirations, you can spot opportunities where you may be able to help them. That’s a great way to connect with someone. Active listening also shows that you respect the person you’re speaking with, which can go a long way in building trust. Remember, people are more likely to remember you if they felt heard during your conversation.
Leveraging Follow-Up for Long-Term Success
Attending a conference is only the first step in networking. The real work happens after the event, when you follow up with the people you’ve met. A well-timed, thoughtful follow-up can solidify the connection and pave the way for future collaborations.
Send a personalized email to each person you connected with, reminding them of your conversation and reiterating any value you offered. Keep the communication open, but don’t overburden them with requests. The goal is to nurture the relationship over time, not bombard them with demands.
The follow-up stage is also an excellent opportunity to continue offering value. If you come across an article, podcast, or resource that could be useful to someone you met at the conference, send it their way. This keeps the relationship alive and reinforces your role as a helpful and resourceful contact.
To ensure the best outcome for your next conference or networking event, here are five additional learning points that can elevate your success and make your networking efforts even more impactful.
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- Embrace Authenticity
Networking is most effective when it’s grounded in authenticity. People respond to genuine connections, and those are built by being yourself, rather than putting on a facade or focusing purely on self-promotion. Authentic conversations and interactions foster trust and long-term relationships. When attending conferences, focus on being honest about your intentions and what you bring to the table. Remember, people are more likely to remember you for who you are than for a rehearsed elevator pitch.
– - Leverage Social Media and Online Follow-Ups
In today’s digital world, networking doesn’t stop when the conference ends. Following up on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, X, or industry-specific forums allows you to maintain momentum and stay connected with your new contacts. Share useful content, engage with others’ posts, and remain active in online voice-acting communities. By doing so, you keep your name visible and show that you are an active participant in the field. This is especially important for voice actors who spend much of their time working remotely.
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Network Across the Industry
It’s easy to focus only on networking “upward” trying to connect with casting directors, producers, and agents. However, networking across the industry is equally important. Building relationships with fellow voice actors, sound engineers, directors, and even administrative personnel can provide unexpected collaborative opportunities and insights. Don’t underestimate the value of lateral connections, as these relationships often open doors to creative partnerships, mentorships, or even referrals.
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- Prepare Before the Conference
To make the most of your networking opportunities, preparation is key. Research who will be attending the conference and identify people you’d like to connect with. Prepare thoughtful questions and topics to discuss. Set personal goals, such as “I want to connect with three producers or casting directors.” This preparation will make your interactions more meaningful and help you avoid feeling overwhelmed during the event. Being proactive ensures you make the most of your time.
– - Maintain Consistency and Patience
Networking is not a one-time event, it’s a continuous process. Relationships require nurturing and consistent follow-up over time. Regularly check in with your contacts, share relevant industry updates, or simply touch base to show genuine interest in their work. Be patient, networking results often take months or even years to materialize. By staying consistent and engaged, you build lasting relationships that can ultimately lead to career-defining opportunities.
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From Society of Voice Arts and Sciences:
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By incorporating these additional strategies, you’ll significantly improve your networking outcomes. Successful networking requires more than just attending events, it’s about preparation, authentic connection, consistency, and fostering meaningful relationships. Over time, these efforts will create a robust network that supports and strengthens your voice-acting career.
Bonus Leverage:
One of the questions I hear most from people who feel uncomfortable introducing themselves at conferences or are just a little lost for what to say, is “How do you break the ice?” Here are my top ten opening lines for engaging new people at a conference. And to make it extra special. I tailored these lines for a conference where you don’t know anyone, and you’ve never been before. Here we go…
Rudy’s top ten opening lines for engaging new people at a conference.
- Hi, I’m Rudy Gaskins. What brings you to this conference?
A simple, open-ended question that invites the other person to share their reason for attending.
– - Have you attended this event before or is this your first time like me?
This creates common ground whether they’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee.
– - What’s been your favorite session or speaker so far?
A great way to get insight into the event and start a conversation about shared interests.
– - I noticed your badge says (Company Name). What kind of work do you do there?
People enjoy talking about their work, and it helps you learn about their role and industry.
– - I’m excited to be here but haven’t met anyone yet. What about you, met any interesting people so far?
This shows openness and can lead to an introduction or shared experience.
–– - I’m curious. What do you hope to get out of this conference?
This demonstrates a genuine interest in their goals and fosters a deeper conversation.
– - I’ve heard great things about this event. What’s been your biggest takeaway so far?
This creates an opportunity to exchange insights and share mutual experiences.
– - I’m new to this industry/or event. Any tips or advice you could share?
A friendly way to connect with experienced attendees who may offer guidance or insights.
– - What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now?
This shifts the focus to their current work, encouraging them to talk about something they’re passionate about.
– - I’m always interested in hearing how people got into this field. What’s your story?
Personal stories often lead to meaningful connections and deeper conversations.
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These openers are designed to break the ice while showing interest in the other person, fostering a connection even in an unfamiliar environment. ♦♦♦
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Rudy Gaskins is the CEO and co-founder of the Society of Voice Arts and Sciences (SOVAS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the global community of voice actors and the professionals who contribute to the voice acting industry. He co-created That’s Voiceover!™ Career Expo and the Voice Arts® Awards. Rudy is an Emmy Award-winning TV producer and documentary filmmaker, with a career spanning PBS, ABC News, NBC Sports, Court TV, and Food Network. His natural talent for advertising led him to become Vice President of Creative Services at Court TV, after which he founded Push Creative Advertising, offering branding services for major global brands such as American Express, Lexus, NBC Sports, Delta Air Lines, Costco, Food Network, BET, and TV One. He has received numerous awards across the media spectrum, including multiple Telly and Promax awards. Under his leadership, SOVAS has been honored with Special Congressional Recognition from the United States Congress, a Certificate of Merit from the New York State Assembly, and a City Council Citation from The Council of the City of New York.
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