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question:  Should I use a voiceover representative?

answer:

Using a representative to get you voice over work may or may not be the right thing for you.

A representative is an individual, or business, who represents you and your voice over services. Commonly know as a "rep," they come in many forms. For example, your rep could be a next-door neighbor who happens to be a successful car salesperson. Your rep could also be a corporation which specializes in marketing.

The objective of the rep is to sell you, the voice over artist, and get you work. Of course, nothing is for free. There exists two ways to remunerate the rep: salary and commission. Commission means that you only pay the rep when they generate income for you. This is ideal in many ways, as you cannot lose money... you only pay them if you receive work. Other than supplying the rep with demos, they are responsible for all costs (gas, telephone, etc.). In this case, we have been told that a 20% to 33% commission is standard.

Another great benefit of paying a rep a commission is that they are forced to work hard...for if they do not obtain work for you, they do not earn any income from you.

The rep, on the other hand, will probably prefer being paid by salary. This way, they are guaranteed an income...even if they do not obtain work for you. While this may not seem ideal for you, the voice over artist, it is possible that you may find a rep who you believe can really get you a lot of work and they only work for salary. In this case, do not sign a long-term contract, and instead try them for a little while to see if they do obtain work for you.

Either way, we suggest signing a contract with your rep. Have a lawyer review it prior to signing.

Following are characteristics to look for in a rep:

* find someone who you feel comfortable with

* make sure they can represent you professionally - for if they don't, you come across appearing unprofessional

* ensure that they are honest, in that they will hold their side of the contract

* if the rep represents other people, make sure none of their other clients have a similar voice

* make sure that the rep is familiar with the voice-over industry, or is willing to learn about the industry. If they do not know this industry, they are liable to miss potential opportunities.

As for finding reps, the larger the city, the more reps there will be looking for work. Put an ad in a local paper, looking for a part-time sales person. Post flyers in your area. Contact marketing organizations. Contact actor/voice-over organizations. Get the word out that you are looking for a rep. Explore all of your options.

Finally, do not sign an "exclusivity" contract with your rep, unless you are guaranteed work. And in this instance, definitely have a lawyer review the contract.

Good luck!

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