Recently I returned from a vacation in Canada. After months of saving and preparation, I was finally at the place I had dreamed of for six months. It was a group trip of about 50 of us skiers and non-skiers. Depending on my mood, I can fall into both groups. During the trip, I received some odd comments from one of the ladies traveling with us. She asked whether I had a roommate because that was my preferred mode of travel and where I was sitting on the plane to our destination. When I asked this lady to take a photo of me overlooking a river in Vancouver, she remarked that she took the picture so that I would not be the center of attention. What? Okay!? I’m thinking it’s my phone/camera, so why shouldn’t I be the center of attention? Instead of stewing about the strange comments I was receiving from this almost total stranger, I refocused on what was most important, enjoying my long-planned vacation. I thought when confronted with harmful or contrary information, the best thing to say may be nothing at all.
Comment, Why?
As a voice talent, I read and scroll social media posts on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Often, I just read the comments and don’t lend my two cents. However, if I can comment with something of value and to help the situation, I post and express my thoughts. As a voice talent with a public platform, my comments are not just seen by my followers. So, I try to determine if I can improve the conversation or help solve an issue or problem. If my thoughts lead to negative or not-so-nice stuff, I keep it moving. I don’t need to join an already full choir of those venting about topics like Artificial Intelligence (AI), voiceover industry changes, or the price of home studio equipment. Comments are a good thing, but why?
Nobody likes A Faultfinder
In this life’s journey, we all are exposed to good and bad challenges. Those who show and express an appreciation for their success attract others to them because they have realized that showing off only gets you fake friends. I’m not sure why the lady on my trip was so concerned about my room accommodations or my seat on the plane, but I decided to keep a good attitude and not return the same probing questions. This person knew nothing about me and the journey I’ve taken as a voice-over talent or somebody in general. Seeing someone enjoying a nice trip is not a license to make assumptions about the person’s life or character. Therefore, I decided to take the events in strive and come home safe to my voiceover business.
Keep it Moving
As a voiceover talent, I know we encounter many unsolicited opinions and remarks. Directors who think we need to go back to school, harsh criticism of our new demos, beliefs based upon our appearance, and backlash of our social media posts are just a few examples of blow backs. On the other hand, many directors and voice-over professionals encourage each other, share what they have learned, and are generally a joy to work with and around as top talents.
“Great things happen to those who don’t stop believing, trying, learning, and being grateful.” Roy T. Bennett
When you encounter folks who may not have good things to say or write, try to look past the harsh responses. Working voice actors have to endure a lot of rejection, so try not to take the rejection personally. Sometimes it’s best to say nothing and count your blessings because you’re in the best profession in the world. You’re a voice actor! Go ahead, #breakthatlip
