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How to Manage Clients when you are Sick

Navigating Vocal Health Challenges: A Guide for Voice Actors 

We’ve been in the business for many years, and, like many of you, we've faced the dreaded scenario of waking up sick and wondering how it will impact our work. 

Vocal health is a crucial aspect of our profession, and managing it well can make all the difference, especially when you're feeling under the weather. Here are some essential tips and tricks: 

Health Drinks for Vocal Warriors 

For starters, consider incorporating a health-wise drink into your routine. We swear by boiled ginger with honey, lemon, and cinnamon. It's a concoction that has proven beneficial for our vocal health. However, be cautious if you have acid reflux, as this may not be the ideal choice. 

Teas, Soups, and Vocal Care Products 

Hot teas and warm soups are classic remedies for soothing your throat. Specifically, Natasha recommends Yogi Echinacea tea, and Throat Coat tea to keep your vocal cords in top shape. Additionally, there are products like Urban Moonshine - an herbal throat spray - and Vocal Zone lozenges from the UK, known for their effectiveness in maintaining vocal clarity. And learn the art of massaging the thalamus - yes, it sounds personal, but it's a secret weapon.  

Prioritize Sleep 

Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep. Lack of sleep can significantly impact your voice and performance. Make quality sleep a priority to ensure your voice remains strong and resilient. 

Strategies for Managing Clients When Sick 

Now, let's tackle the challenging aspect of our profession – managing clients when you're not feeling your best. Here are some strategies we've learned over the years: 

1. Communicate Early and Honestly 

The moment you realize you're unwell, don't panic. Instead, reach out to your client immediately. Explain the situation and be honest about your health condition. Establish open communication to manage expectations. 

2. Assess Your Recovery Time 

Every illness is different, and so is your recovery time. Assess how long you might need before you can perform at your best again. Communicate this to your client, providing a realistic timeframe for rescheduling the session. 

3. Offer Alternatives and Recommendations 

If the client is in a time crunch and cannot wait for your recovery, be proactive. Recommend a trusted colleague with a similar vocal tone and range. Recommending a fellow talent when you can't meet a client's deadline is not defeat – it's community building. It's saying, "Hey, I'm not just a voice; I'm a team player." It's an opportunity, not a setback.  

This not only helps your client but also strengthens the sense of community among voice actors. 

4. Letting Go of Fears 

One of the biggest fears when sick is losing a client to another voice actor. However, it's crucial to remember that it's not the end of the world. By recommending a reliable substitute, you showcase professionalism and confidence in your work. 

5. Record Urgent Tasks First 

If you feel a sickness coming on, prioritize urgent tasks that require immediate attention. Get those out of the way before your condition worsens. 

6. Cancel Unnecessary Commitments 

Clear your schedule of non-essential commitments to focus on recovery. This allows you to return to work fully rejuvenated. 

7. Record Smaller Tasks 

If possible, record smaller tasks that don't require extensive effort. Surprisingly, even during illness, our voices may sound better than we think, and clients might be more understanding than anticipated. 

8. Keep Communication Open 

Maintain constant communication with clients throughout your recovery process. Keeping them informed and involved builds trust and understanding. 

In the grand scheme of things, our physical and mental well-being should always take precedence. We’ve come to understand the  importance of balancing energy levels, setting realistic goals, and being okay with letting go when needed. 

Navigating sickness as a voice actor is a skill that improves with time. By prioritizing your health, communicating effectively, and being adaptable, you can successfully manage clients and maintain a thriving voiceover career. Stay healthy, fellow voice actors, and keep rocking those vocal booths!