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question:  Should I join the union?

answer:

Determining if, and when, to join the union is an important decision. This is because both choices have advantages and disadvantages which can greatly impact your voice-over career.

First, here is a brief explanation of voice over unions:

There are two voice-over unions. For many years, it has been rumored that they will merge. Most professionals belong to both unions:

· SAG - Screen Actors Guild - recordings on film (television commercial, documentary, etc.)

· AFTRA - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists - recordings in formats other than film (radio commercial, video, broadcasting, news show, audio tape, and music)

Their current numbers and website addresses are on our website at www.edgestudio.com/marketingresources.htm.

While the unions have high initiation fees and dues, there are many perks: guaranteed decent wages, guaranteed payment schedules, health and pension plans, etc. Being a member of a union is also prestigious, as a large percentage of high-budget, national productions are union.

The disadvantage of being a union member is that non-union-signatory creative teams cannot use your services. Instead, you can only perform non-union work. Note that a large percentage of local and regional commercials, as well as most narrations, are non-union.

When you are new in the industry, it is suggested that you do not join the union. This is because casting professionals assume that union voice-over artists are very experienced, and having little experience in the field would stymie your chance of winning auditions and performing well.

Instead, allow your career to take off with non-union work, like local and regional commercials, and narrations, such as telephone systems, training programs for businesses, etc. While these jobs pay less than union, they are great places to improve your skills, boost your confidence, and build your resume.

Good luck!

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