Voice-Over Pro Tip

Saying "No"

Hey Reader,

Let's talk about something that can feel counter-intuitive when you're building your voice-over career: the power of saying 'no.'

It might seem contradictory to turn down work, especially when every gig feels important. However, strategically declining certain projects isn't just about protecting your time; it's about valuing your worth, clarifying your brand, and ultimately, opening doors to better opportunities.

Why Saying 'No' Can Be a Strategic Move:

• Protect Your Rates: Consistently taking on low-paying work can inadvertently anchor you to rates that don't reflect your skill or experience. Saying 'no' to projects that don't meet your financial goals sends a clear message about your value and helps you attract clients who respect your pricing.
• Guard Your Time and Energy: Your time is a finite and valuable resource. If a project comes with unreasonable deadlines, excessive revisions, or a client who demands too much of your time, declining it frees you up for more profitable and enjoyable work. Prioritizing your well-being helps prevent burnout.
• Free Up Time for Business Growth: When you say 'no' to a project that isn't the right fit or doesn't pay your worth, you free up valuable time that you can reinvest directly into the long-term health of your voice-over business. Think about it: that's time you can use to update your demos, refine your website, engage in targeted networking, learn a new skill, or nurture existing client relationships. These are the non-audition, non-project activities that often have the biggest impact on your career's trajectory.
• Make Room for the Right 'YES!': When your schedule isn't filled with "just okay" gigs, you create space – mental, physical, and emotional – for the right opportunities to come along. You'll have more energy, focus, and availability for the clients and projects that truly excite you and further your career goals.

How to Decline Gracefully:

You can always say no politely and professionally. Here are a couple of examples:

"Thanks so much for reaching out with this project! After reviewing the details, I don't think I'm the best fit for this particular role at this time, but I wish you the best of luck with your search."

Or, if it's about rates:

"I appreciate you considering me for this project! Unfortunately, the budget for this role is a bit below my current rates. I'd be happy to discuss future opportunities if a project aligns better with my pricing, but for now, I'll have to decline."

Remember, your voice is your business, and you're in charge. Learning to leverage the power of 'no' is a crucial step in building a sustainable, fulfilling, and profitable voice-over career.

-Michael

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Thanks so much!

-Michael

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​www.MichaelLangsnerVO.com​

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