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What’s My Brand - What is a Brand - How do you find your Brand

Hey there, fellow voice actors! Today, let's dive deep into the world of branding—what it is, how to find yours, and why it matters. So grab a cup of your favorite beverage and let's get started. 

Defining Branding: It's Your Story 

So, what exactly is branding? Allow us to break it down. Branding is essentially the story of you. It's the painted picture of your identity, a combination of everything that makes you uniquely you. Back in the '70s, asking about your brand might have earned you some puzzled looks. But today, we understand that it's a blend of who you are, what you resonate with, and the vibes you put out into the world. 

Finding Your Vibe: The Millennial Approach 

In today's world, even millennials and younger generations have caught on to the idea of having a personal brand. It's all about defining your vibe—what resonates with you, what you love, and what feels like "you" on any given day. It could be a fusion of Starbucks, Tazo tea, and yoga, or any unique combination that represents you. The language has evolved, and now, having a brand is not only accepted but celebrated. 

Discovering Your Brand: A Journey of Self-Reflection 

Now, let's address the big question: How do you find your brand? If you're new to this and feeling a bit lost, fear not. Start with self-discovery. Think about what you like, what defines you, and what makes you unique. A practical exercise is to ask friends and colleagues for a few words that describe you. It might be uncomfortable, but the insights are gold. You can even create a word cloud to visually represent the characteristics that stand out. 

The Professional Foundation: Building Your Brand 

If you're struggling to identify a unique aspect of your brand, don't worry. Embrace the professional angle. Highlight your commitment to excellence—whether it's having Source Connect, a sleek website, or a branded email. Being professional is not just a part of your brand; it's the foundation upon which everything else stands. 

Recommended Reading: The Branding Bible 

Looking for guidance and a deeper understanding of branding? We highly recommend the book Voiceover Achiever, by Celia Siegel. This book is not just about branding; it's a marketing bible for voice actors. It provides valuable exercises and insights to help you navigate the branding landscape and elevate your voiceover business. 

Seeking Expert Guidance: Coaches and Strategists 

If you find yourself in need of expert guidance, consider reaching out to professionals like Celia Siegel, a branding strategist mentioned in the recommended book. Alternatively, other individuals inside and outside of the voiceover industry, like Jonathan Tilley, are known for their expertise in helping voice actors discover and refine their brands. Remember, you can embark on this journey on your own, but expert guidance can fast-track your progress. 

Brand Before Demo: A Proactive Approach 

One nugget of wisdom that often gets shared in the voiceover community is to define your brand before diving into demo production. While it may not always be practical for everyone, especially those engaged in direct marketing and online casting, having a sense of your brand enhances your overall approach to the industry. 

Continuous Evolution: Embrace the Journey 

Lastly, understand that branding is not a one-time task. It's an ongoing journey of self-discovery, refinement, and adaptation. Don't rush it; let it evolve naturally. Even LA-quality demos and fully fleshed-out brands take time and experience. Remember, vanilla is a delicious flavor too, and being a great voice actor doesn't always mean having an elaborate, niche brand. 

Embrace the uniqueness that is you. Whether you're just starting or have been in the industry for years, branding is a dynamic aspect of your voiceover career. So, take the time to discover, refine, and celebrate your brand. And, as always, keep shining in the world of voice acting!