Janet Ault. The Voice of Choice.®
There are various financial management systems out there that are perfect for personal or small business use. To pick one that really caters to your specifications, it is best to have a chat with an accountant to discuss thoroughly what software would work best for you.
Among the widely used business management software today include QuickBooks, Peachtree, Quicken, Sage Line 50, and MYOB. These programs have different sets of features yet all of them can help the small time professional, such as a voice over talent, handle his or her finances easily.
Of course, a voice over talent must build and maintain a strong clientele. Which is why apart from setting your own business management system, you also need to have a client management program to keep track of your clients and potential customers.
Recording vital business information such as company names, telephone numbers, business addresses, etc., may require more than a thick ledger. Installing client management software like the Prophet 5 is a good option. Keeping them filed in an electronic database is one way of efficiently keeping in touch with your customers without any hassle. HoldOn Log's "ActorTrack&" software is a simple and effective way to manage your entire career. You can log your auditions, callbacks, track bookings, record expenses and manage your industry contacts.
Another stellar resource for managing your career/life is Kristine Oller's audiobook, "Feeding Your Focus." Kristine also provides career strategy coaching (KristineOller.com).
A good addition to your business system is the contract software, which is extremely useful when you nailed a job and need to set down your terms and conditions. Contract software also helps in speeding and simplifying the contracting process between you and your employer while covering all aspects including legal technicalities.
As a professional, you cannot overlook the importance of getting business insurance for yourself. Finding the time to talk with an insurance expert is time well spent, as they can help you decide what kind of insurance is best for your voice over talent services. For a small time voice over actor, it is recommended that he get the listed insurance policies:
- Working from Home;
- Trade Credit Insurance;
- Engineering insurance;
- Professional indemnity insurance.
Getting an insurance policy goes a long way as they can cover and protect your business from a lot of unwanted expenses.
