Auditioning is my job. Booking a gig is the end goal. A typical morning for me consists of combing through auditions from various sources like agent and casting director emails, and VO websites. First I delete the ones that aren’t in my wheelhouse such as Adult Male with French Accent. (Mais non, je ne peux pas!) Second, I take the ones I think I’m suited for and write them on my to do list with agency name, client, proper slate, the due dates & times. For Example: ABC Agency – Brawny Paper Towels – No slate – Due Monday noon ET.
I then go into my booth with my iPad, scroll to the script that is due first, read the specs and hit record. I give a few reads and move onto the next audition, reading those specs and recording it. I do this until there are no more to read.
Usually it’s all recorded onto one long file. Then I take my list and my computer and do about an hour of editing, depending on how many auditions there are that day.
My list is really helpful because I can keep track of which agent sent me what. Once editing of the first file is complete, I go back into the agent’s email and see how to name the file. Agents are very particular about naming and will delete anyone who can’t follow the rules. It actually helps them weed people out.
I also make sure I send the file correctly. Some agents like me to upload to their FTP. Others prefer the auditions by email. Once I send that one off with a kiss, I start editing the next one until they’re all done.
If any more auditions have hit my inbox while I was editing, I put them on the list and repeat the cycle. If not, it’s time to record my dailies or my “paid gigs.” This approach is very different from the way I used to do things. Before I would always record the paid gigs first, then audition for possible gigs.
I changed my method when my booking ratio slowed quite a bit. It’s true that the early bird gets the worm in this industry. I’m up early enough to get my auditions out of the way before the workday starts, so I’m not keeping my paid clients waiting AND I’m getting my auditions in as early as possible so my agents can listen and send to their clients.
This system has been working for me for a while, but I’m constantly revisiting my techniques. I’ll keep doing it this way until bookings slow down. Then it’ll be time to roll up my sleeves and roll with the changes.