Surviving in VO – Growing Relationships & Income Streams

Over the next five years, one in four jobs is expected to undergo significant changes due to AI, digitization, green energy, and supply chain modifications. While AI may not pose an immediate threat, slow economic growth, supply shortages, and inflation are currently more concerning for job stability.  The future of earning income is uncertain, with a shift towards freelancing and self-employment, reflecting the growing $1.5 trillion global freelance market. Variable income is becoming the norm, especially for voice actors who need to adapt to changing genres affected by AI.  Genres like fiction audiobooks, commercials, audio dramas, imaging, promo, documentary, and in-show narration rely on human acting skills and are less likely to be impacted. On the other hand, telephony, audio description, non-fiction audiobooks, compliance-driven training, back titles, encyclopedic, and data-driven content face potential decimation by AI and voice cloning.  This technological shift also means the gap between established and new voice talent will widen, as AI takes over lower-level tasks previously handled by beginners. To stay in the game, aspiring voice actors should consider additional income streams and offer adjacent services, such as copywriting, proofreading, audio production, video editing, or photography. Developing digital products can also provide unlimited inventory for sale.  Those freelancing alongside full-time employment should explore smart automation, AI, and current tools to optimize time and scale their side business. Building direct client relationships becomes crucial for voice actors to reduce dependence on casting sites and maximize profits. It's essential to adapt to the changing landscape, where the days of steady paychecks, employer loyalty, and pensions are diminishing.  However, taking control of one's business, time, and income can be immensely rewarding, offering lifestyle flexibility and the freedom to choose preferred projects and work with like-minded individuals. The Infinite Game, by Simon Sinek: https://amzn.to/3BcmKVt _____________________________ ▶️ Watch this video next: https://youtu.be/QL5umVin7b0 SUBSCRIBE: https://www.youtube.com/@paulschmidtpro?sub_confirmation=1 The VO Freedom Master Plan: https://paulschmidtpro.com/vo-freedom-master-plan Private 1:1 VO Business Coaching: https://paulschmidtcoaching.com USE CODE YOUTUBE20 to get 20% off your first paid session. My Move Touch Inspire Newsletter for Voice Actors: https://paulschmidtpro.com/move-touch-inspire-youtube Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/vofreedom The Paul Schmidt Pro Podcast: https://paulschmidtpro.com/the-pro-podcast 7 Steps to Staring and Developing a Career in Voiceover: https://members.paulschmidtpro.com/7-steps-yt Why I Don't Worry About Fiverr Anymore: https://globalvoiceacademy.com/why-i-dont-worry-about-fiverr-anymore/ Say Hi on Social:  https://pillar.io/paulschmidtpro https://www.instagram.com/paulschmidtvo https://www.tiktok.com/@paulschmidtpro https://www.clubhouse.coSend us Fan MailSupport the show