opinion: Coaching & Value for Money-#2

Whether you’re studying one-on-one with a coach, or in a group workshop, make sure you’re getting value for your money. What does that mean?
If your goal is to spend as much time as possible at the mic, reading copy and getting feedback from an experienced VO coach, whether they are a working talent, a casting director, a VO director, or a full time pro coach, make sure you select a course style that will deliver that, either 1on1 or in a group.

How to do that in a group?

1.  Enroll in a workshop that limits the number of students. ABSOLUTELY no more than 10. Less than 10 is even better. I’d do it in groups of 4, 6, or 8 tops.
2. Select the right class for your experience level.If you’re a beginner, only enroll in a beginner class. Don’t try to hit above your weight. It will be a disappointment to you. You might feel lost, inadequate, discouraged, and all of those things may put you off going further in the business, and you don’t want that. Own what you know, and what you don’t.
3. Read the synopsis of the class. Know what to expect. Is it discussion based, is there performance feedback from the group or just the coach, does it cover the areas you’re interested in, IE: animation, e-learning, or commercial?
4. Pick a class that delivers what you want. The workshop I mentioned in my last post had us reading, audio book, commercial, and animation copy. Just what I wanted!

If you’re interested in mic-time, select a setting that is focused on that. If you’re looking for more of a Q&A, look for classes and coaches who offer that. Also, look for online VO communities, as well as the ton of organizations around the VO industry who provide info on a vast array of subject matter.