VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

Tom Test · DC Joined: 23 Jan 2007 Posts: 629 Location: Chicago, IL

I just read this interesting tidbit on the new V123 Premium Talent Forum:

"Get a friendly headshot. We have seen that listing with a nice and friendly face get more clicks than listings with a logo or with no picture at all. I don't have the stats handy, but I did this analysis myself a few years ago. Also, it has been proven than online businesses that have human faces on their web sites get higher conversion rates."

In my experience, the conventional wisdom was that one should NOT put their headshot on any VO-related marketing materials - whether it's a J-card (how's THAT for old school?), CD insert, postcard, or a website. The philosophy was that people would judge WHAT you could do based on HOW you look. For example, if they saw my friendly smiling white-bread face, they might think I would not be able to do anything edgy or cool.

But now I'm thinking that what I might have to gain (in terms of a more human connection, rare in the impersonal world of the internet) could easily out-weigh what I might be losing. What are your thoughts on this topic?
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bobsouer · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 10:16 am Post subject:

Tom,

There's no question that having a human face to respond to is a good thing, but at least for those of us with "radio faces" (and even more so radio bodies!) I think the risks still outweigh the benefits. At least, that's where I'm coming down.

However, I will say that a couple of years ago I significantly modified my previous position on this subject with regard to my blog and I've posted photos of me at my various meet-ups and get-togethers many times now. And in no small part for the very reason cited in your post above.
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Claire Dodin · Club 300 Joined: 15 Feb 2008 Posts: 392 Location: Sunny LA

Well, I did 6 months without my face on and then I changed to use my headshot. There has been no significant difference to my bookings.
I guess, if your branding is strong, then stick with it and forget about showing your face. If your branding is week (as is mine, I know, I need to sort this out) then maybe a headshot could help. Not even sure about that, it depends how friendly your headshot looks like...
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Lizden · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 10:34 am Post subject:

Oui, ma chère...but NO one could say YOU have a face for radio!!!! Wink

L.
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Liz de Nesnera O.A.V. ~ Livin' The VO Dream!
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Jeffrey Kafer · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 10:36 am Post subject:

Claire Dodin · Club 300 Joined: 15 Feb 2008 Posts: 392 Location: Sunny LA

oh, girls, I'm blushing!!
I was sort of hoping guys would be more likely to hire me, but nope! They actually listen to the demos!
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Deirdre · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 10:59 am Post subject:

I stand by my "Rules".

http://www.vo-bb.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=2451

Philip Banks · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 11:04 am Post subject:

Fairy snuff!

Deirdre · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 11:40 am Post subject:

Don't forget, Mon Cher—

Those same rules say

Frank F · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 12:04 pm Post subject:

I agree (for the most part) with Deebs.

However, (that said), I believe in adding the personal touch to marketing. There is a point where too much is too much and too little is too little. You have to decide how much is enough when it comes to using a headshot.

Do you post your likeness on everything, or do you use your picture sparingly? Remember, candid shots are best unless it is used for formal presentations. If you also earn a living do on-camera work, then a headshot is a must.

I have a written little blurb I will post somewhere soon which explains why adding the human touch to your marketing works well.

Toodles

F2
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Be thankful for the bad things in life. They opened your eyes to the good things you weren't paying attention to before. email: thevoice@usa.com

imaginator · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 12:08 pm Post subject:

well there you go, frank.

i can have a human touch...or include a photo and begin spreading doubt !

(seriously, though, would very much like to read what you've written on the subject.)
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rowell gormon
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Diane Maggipinto · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 12:50 pm Post subject:

I always wonder why realtors put their headshots on bus benches. To me, the ladies may be inviting trouble.

And headshots where they aren't needed, to me, scream "REALTOR"!
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Deirdre · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 1:10 pm Post subject:

At least you didn't say Real-uh-tor.
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Jeffrey Kafer · Posted: Wed Jul 16, 2008 1:12 pm Post subject:

paddyo · CM Joined: 12 Jul 2006 Posts: 975 Location: New York City