Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kevin Wagner, a voice-over artist based in Gallatin, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I provide professional voice-over services, which encapsulate the recording, editing, and production of audio files that act as the vocal output of a customer's script, book, e-learning, advertisement, or any genre where a "spoken word" is required. My customers are typically authors looking to create an audiobook, educational partners needing some e-learning narrated, or others working to create online, television, radio, or visual advertisements with a need for a voice to accompany their final products.
Tell us about yourself
I've been working in the voice-over field for roughly three years now - and have loved the journey thus far. As someone that has worked in the corporate software world for over the last decade, I decided to buy a microphone from a teenager selling his used gear online and begin to try something more creative as a potential side hustle and business, and have just built this business up day by day, project by project. I love the idea that someone out there needs their story told or needs a voice to bring life to a message, and I can creatively and professionally help them achieve that. It's creative, it's challenging, and it's personally satisfying.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
From a business perspective, after three years, the biggest accomplishment is reaching a level where I have a strong book of work to look back on and am now earning consistently in the field. Personally, though, there have been a few higher visibility jobs that were quite exciting, hearing my voice on national television advertisements or being heard by millions of people - but mainly, it's the growth of what started as a hobby into a solid side career.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
In my field, I think it is just the grind of knowing that while you may offer a good service, your voice may not be what someone is looking for. You need to be thick-skinned to move from audition to audition and know that it isn't personal. You shouldn't quit, but keep working to find something that is a fit for you and your potential clients. In this line of work and any form of acting or performance-based efforts, you can't be sensitive and lose faith that you aren't good enough.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Start small, set realistic goals, and don't quit. I think it is great to dream big for your business but allow yourself to succeed and win in a smaller capacity before jumping into the deep end and expanding. It helps to give you confidence, to learn and gain wisdom in the industry, and slowly determine where your business can shine when you take your time.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.kwagnervo.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-wagner-2183a8207/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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