It’s awards season!
Within the voice over world, there seems to sometimes be a bit of controversy about awards, specifically various voice over awards platforms.
I say, you do you. If you enjoy being acknowledged for the work you’ve done, then go for it! Enter that awards competition, and let that light shine!! Receiving a nomination or an award is a nice way to affirm you are on the right track in your career.
Receiving an award can also be another tool in your marketing toolbox. I mean, I don’t know that buyers of voiceover services really care about awards voice actors have received, but it does add a hint of legitimacy to your work. And, in the world of always looking for content to post on social media, receiving an award is another opportunity to post and tag others involved in your award, which will expand the reach of your social media posts.
So, where do you find award shows to enter?
My first and favorite one to recommend is the ADDYs, which are presented by the American Advertising Federation (AAF). I could go on and on about my appreciation for the AAF organization. I’ve only been involved about three years, but it’s been a wonderful way to meet like-minded professionals local to me.
The AAF is comprised of over 200 member clubs nationally. It is the oldest national advertising trade association, and represents over 40,000 professionals in the advertising industry and beyond. By participating in your local AAF Chapter, you will meet people in your area who are connected to advertising, graphic design, video production, and other related creative services.
The ADDYs “are the advertising industry’s largest and most representative competition, attracting over 40,000 entries each year… and recognizes and rewards the creative spirit of excellence in the art of advertising…” What’s unique about the ADDYs is, if you win at your Local level, you are advanced to the District level, and from there, winners go to the National ADDY competition. There are categories to enter in every single aspect of the advertising industry, and namely, there is a voice over category. (Note: please remember to always ask permission of the creator of the asset before you enter it in to any award competition.)
I feel like AAF and the ADDYs are a legit way to network with like-minded people in our business, and, receive recognition for your work.
Now, if you’re in to political commercial voice over, I do have recommendations of a couple of organizations and award competitions you can enter.
The first I will mention is the Reed Awards. Touted as the “… Political Campaign Industry Event of the Year…” it’s a great one to enter, and conference to attend to meet political consultants, ad agencies, and strategists.
The second to mention is the Pollie Awards, hosted by the American Association of Political Consultants. It’s known as “The Oscars of Advertising,” and again, a wonderful way to meet people in the political arena who might cast voice over talent.
I truly appreciate organizations like NAVA (National Association of Voice Actors) and World Voices Organization and think it’s so important to be part of these types of communities – we need to relate to others who experience the same types of ups and downs and sideways swings. But, there is something to be said for becoming a part of organizations where you can network with people who will use your services. Well, there’s a lot to be said! Go where they buyers are!
I’d love to hear about your experiences with these membership organizations and awards competitions. Feel free to drop me a line at caryn@carynclark.com!
