Whenever you talk to someone about how they got into voice over, you’ll always hear a different story, because no two journeys are the same. One thing I don’t think is talked about enough with people’s journeys is the occasional (or frequent) gap between activity. You know what? Sometimes life just happens, and we just have to roll with the punches. Maybe your journey is on pause because money is tight, and you can’t afford more lessons, or your mic broke, and you have to save up for a new one. You could be doing VO part time, and your day job changed, and things are chaotic. Medical issues can happen to anyone at any time. Hell, maybe you’re experiencing burnout and trying to recover from it. These are all valid reasons for putting your journey on pause.
Now, even though you might be not actively doing auditions or marketing yourself during this time, there are still a few things you can and should do during a hiatus.
One thing we all have and can’t get back is time. Make the most of your spare time, and find ways to expand your knowledge or skillset—listen to VO podcasts, for example. Podcasts are easy to listen to on walks, driving, or while working on other projects or your day job (if your day job allows it). Off hand, I’d recommend “Voice Over Body Shop,” “Voice Acting Mastery with Crispin Freeman,” “Voice Acting 101,” and “Everyday VOpreneur with Marc Scott”. I mostly listen to these when I walk my dog or while working out. These podcasts have a lot of great tips and often contain personal stories and VO journeys I find inspiring.
I also recommend reading VO books and blogs to help fill your down time. You can try your local library, but I’m the type of person to get a book and just “ruin it” with note taking on the pages. NO REGRETS. I’m actually reading a book gifted to me by Brad Hyland called The Voice Over Actor’s Handbook by John Burr. I haven’t gotten far, but I did promise a review to Brad once I finish it. Don’t worry Brad, it’s coming! When I don’t have time for reading a full chapter, but I might have five or so minutes, I’ll read one of the many blogs I’m subscript to.
Take the time to watch tutorials on YouTube. You can always learn more about the DAW you use, and video tutorials in your spare time is a great way to learn. I use Reaper as my main DAW, and I’d recommend starting with a subscription to BoothJunkie on YouTube due to their outstanding tutorials.
Money permitting, attend a VO conference. Even if you aren’t actively working in VO, you can still go to a conference and interact with those who are there and learn so much about the industry. For the past couple years, I’ve attended and enjoyed One Voice Conference USA.
Finally, I believe the most important thing you can do is stay connected. Being on social media, even not posting and just lurking, you can still see what people are doing and what’s happening with the industry. Join Zoom socials or make your own. Interacting with people who are also part of the industry is a great way to learn and feel included, even if you are on hiatus.
You might have guessed, but I’m on a bit of a hiatus. If you follow me at all I’m sure you’ve noticed (I haven't posted a blog in nearly a year). I changed my day job hoping it would help my mental health and give me more time with VO. While it did help with my mental health, damnit all if I wasn’t busier than ever. I came home feeling so tired I just wanted to sleep. I was then offered a promotion at my old job and, though I’m less than thrilled to be back around certain coworkers, I think it will be the better move for me in the long run as I get back on track in my VO journey. So far, things are getting better, and I know I’m at a place I need to be to get up and going again!
I hope you all have a lovely day. Thank you for reading, good luck on your journey and I hope you have a successful week!
-Ghosty
TL;DR: While on Hiatus use your time wisely by learning and staying socially connected with those in the industry.