It's about Time

One of my first teachers in voiceover used to say, "If you show up for an audition on time, you're late." Since then, I've heard some variation of this many times in my training. As a voiceover actor, you're expected to show up 10-15 minutes early to check in & get your script, and to give you time to prepare before you get into the booth.

Interestingly enough, in my day job, if you show up on time for a meeting, you're early. And while a few minutes here & there are no big deal, starting 10-15 minutes late when the meeting starts at 7 a.m. is painful, throwing off the rest of your day. And not showing up at all with no notice? Unprofessional. If I have to get up early to be prepared for a meeting that starts before the crack of dawn, I expect the rest of the meeting attendees to do so as well. So I'm just a teensy bit annoyed that this morning I showed up for a 7 a.m. conference call...and other than my boss, no one else showed.

Part of being a professional is respect - respecting your colleagues for their intellect and experience...and the value of their time. Showing up prepared and on time (whether that means 15 minutes before the meeting/audition is supposed to begin, or showing up as soon as the appointed time comes) is a demonstration of that respect. Our time is precious & valuable. By showing up late (or not showing at all, without telling anyone), you're sending the message that you are selfish, that your time is more valuable than others, and that you don't respect the other parties attending the meeting or audition.

Please folks, regardless of your chosen profession: Show a little respect. Be prepared, be on time, and be present.