I’m not going to lie: the concept of “networking” carries with it a baggage that most of us in the creative community have no desire to lug around. The term itself feels clinical and transactional, like a cold, calculated means to an end. In our world—where every take is an expression of art, every line a piece of our souls—the idea of treating people merely as stepping stones to success just doesn’t sit right. So let’s drop that word altogether. Instead of “networking,” I prefer to think of it as “building relationships.” It’s not about ticking off a checklist or pursuing a strategic goal; it’s about genuine human connection. When you shift your mindset to nurturing authentic relationships, you’re not chasing a shortcut to success. Instead, you’re embracing a more meaningful approach to both life and your craft.
Let’s be honest: in an industry where a single word—like “networking”—can evoke images of awkward business cards and rehearsed pitches, we need a better way. And that better way begins with authenticity.
Be Yourself—Authenticity Over Pretense
It sounds almost too simple, but it’s the truth. The only place where you should be any other person is inside the booth, where your voice transforms into myriad characters. But in the real world, your authenticity is your strongest asset. If you find yourself trying to morph into someone else just to be acceptable, it might be time to question why you’re striving for that illusion of perfection. We live in a world that’s obsessed with filters and facades. In voice acting, as in life, our genuine selves are what make us memorable. Don’t feel the need to inflate your accomplishments or diminish your weaknesses just to impress. People are drawn to authenticity—they want to connect with the real you. And believe me, the version of you that isn’t over-prepared or overly polished is far more interesting and worth knowing.
In a field as creative and unpredictable as ours, authenticity isn’t just refreshing—it’s essential. It’s the foundation upon which every successful collaboration is built. So, let your quirks, your passions, and even your off-key moments shine through. That’s what makes you unique, and that’s what people will remember long after a one-take wonder has faded into obscurity.
Don’t Talk About Work—Talk About Life
This might seem counterintuitive, especially in an industry where your work is a big part of who you are. However, the most enriching conversations rarely revolve solely around the mechanics of voice acting. Sure, there will be moments when you share war stories about recording sessions that went hilariously off-script or vent about the 19 takes of a single line that just wouldn’t cooperate. But more often than not, the best interactions happen when you move beyond the work talk.
Imagine sitting in a cozy corner of a café with a fellow voice actor, where instead of dissecting the nuances of your latest project, you dive into your favorite video games, the films that left you breathless, or even the absurdities of daily life. It’s in these moments that real connections are forged—ones that go beyond the confines of professional expectations. When you make the leap from discussing work to sharing your personal stories, you invite others to do the same. You get to know the person behind the voice, the experiences that have shaped them, and the passions that drive them. It’s about trading scripted interactions for genuine conversations. After all, aren’t the most memorable moments in our lives often the unplanned, unscripted ones?
Think of it this way: if you were to spend every moment talking about your agent, your next big audition, or the ins and outs of the industry, you’d miss out on the rich tapestry of experiences that truly define you. There’s a world beyond the recording booth—a world filled with stories, adventures, and moments of unexpected brilliance. So next time you find yourself in a room full of fellow creatives, resist the urge to talk shop. Instead, ask about their journeys, their quirks, and the little moments that make life worth living.
Remember Everyone’s Intrinsic Value
In the pursuit of building relationships, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of gravitating only towards the influential, the famous, or the powerful. But here’s a gentle reminder: every single person in that room has something unique to offer. When you start valuing people based solely on their clout or status, you not only come off as disingenuous, but you also miss out on the chance to forge meaningful bonds with those who might surprise you the most.
I’ve seen it happen before—friends sidelined, conversations interrupted, and genuine connections sacrificed just because someone with a big name walked in. The moment you adjust your demeanor depending on who’s around, you send a clear message: you’re not interested in the person for who they are, but for what they represent. And that’s not just off-putting—it’s downright damaging to your reputation. True relationship-building means recognizing the intrinsic value in every individual. It means treating your peers with the same respect and curiosity you’d extend to a stranger on the street. After all, every person carries a story, a set of experiences, and a unique perspective that can enrich your own journey. So next time you’re in a room full of potential collaborators and friends, remember that authenticity and mutual respect are far more powerful than any association with a big name.
In the grand tapestry of our industry, there’s a persistent myth that success hinges solely on who you know. That the secret to a thriving career in voice acting is hidden in the art of “networking” the right people. But if you peel away the layers of this myth, what you’re left with is a much simpler truth: success comes from building genuine relationships. The old Hollywood way—a time when who you were seen with and who you knew dictated your fate—has long passed. In today’s world, especially in an industry as geographically and culturally diverse as voice acting, relationships are not transactional. They’re organic. They grow naturally when you invest in others, share your experiences, and celebrate the individuality of those around you. When you abandon the cold, calculated approach of networking and instead embrace the warmth of true connection, you open yourself up to a world of opportunities that no business card or LinkedIn connection can offer. It’s about creating a community where every voice is heard, every story matters, and every interaction is a chance to learn something new about the human experience.
So the next time you find yourself at an industry event or even just a casual get-together, forget about “networking.” Instead, focus on building relationships. Engage in conversations that go beyond the surface, share a laugh, swap stories, and above all, be yourself. Let your authenticity shine through and watch as genuine connections blossom in ways you never expected. Remember, the goal isn’t to accumulate contacts or to tick off a list of influential names. The goal is to enrich your life and the lives of those around you through meaningful, heartfelt interactions. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, these principles hold true in any social environment, career, or situation.
As you move forward in your voice acting journey, keep in mind that the value of your relationships far outweighs any transactional gains you might achieve by sticking to outdated networking strategies. Embrace authenticity, cherish the stories that each person brings to the table, and remember that every individual you meet has something valuable to offer.
By the way, if you were on the fence about voice acting because you don’t like networking, go ahead and cross that roadblock off your list. And if you’re looking for more resources to kickstart your journey, you can get started here with my free eBook.
Stop networking. Start building relationships. Live an authentic life. And of course, go get behind the mic.
