When I left Indianapolis, I might’ve sold all my furniture but I did still have a lot to take with me. I couldn’t part with my collection of books or films. Audrey certainly made the move. And I was also able to keep my voicework up, as my agent booked me work whether I was in Park City or New York City.
But as time passed, the gigs became fewer and farther between. For whatever reason, I wasn’t booking new work and the clients I had read for had moved on.
So in taking a new job (that came with its very own pay cut!), I needed to figure out how to get this side job back on track. By landing even just one gig every other month or so, I’d have enough to make up for the income my budget was otherwise missing.
I set about circulating my demo around to all the Chicago-based agencies a Google search could provide, and thankfully one of the best in the city agreed to take me on. It was all easier than I ever imagined; even my long-time agent understood when I let her know I needed to part ways. (I learned it was difficult for her to book me in cities where the clients had to rent studio time for me to read – they didn’t appreciate the extra expense.)
That was four months ago. I’ve booked exactly zero gigs since then, the added income I was counting on no where to be found. It got so bad a few weeks ago that I sat down with my new agent after a recent audition, more than a little freaked out about my prospects. Should I switch representation? Focus on smaller clients, more approachable work? I’ve been auditioning for spots with national insurance agencies, iconic fast food brands, million-dollar start ups…I don’t have that kind of experience!
Thankfully, this new agent knew exactly where I was coming from, and she successfully talked me down from the proverbial ledge. I learned at this level it can take up to a year to book new work; she stressed that she’s not worried at all, that my auditions are solid and with time and patience, she’s confident something will come through. It’s an entirely at-will partnership (they only make money when I make money) so there’s no harm in staying on their roster and seeing what happens.
Do I wish I was working more regularly already? Of course I do. So does my bank account. In the meantime, I can tighten my belt (coffee at the office isn’t really that bad) and keep up with auditions. And before long, that’ll be me you hear on that new [insert awesome, interesting brand] commercial.
