Where do you get the best bang for your buck? And time? Once upon a time, prior to this little global pandemic nuisance called COVID-19, business people happily networked over cocktails, at luncheons and conferences, and even in elevators as they merrily navigated up and down myriad suites in countless office buildings. Then came an unprecedented (remember the constant use of that word?) shutdown of all that was natural to the business world. And just about everyone else. Road warriors remained at home, shut in with loved ones and as much toilet paper as they could hoard. Business communications shifted overnight to nearly 100% digital. It was a great moment for Zoom Video Communication s. Now that we're on the other side of the pandemic (finally!!), we have the benefit of both in person and virtual networking opportunities. Double the pleasure, double the fun. But double the investment and time? Nah ... we have to pick and choose, we can only do so much, which leads to the question of which to use. Is one better than the other? Like so many things, it depends. Pick the networking event and structure that's best suited to your industry, personal preferences, and/or comfort level. Pros and cons of in person networking Personally, I love both types of networking. In person events come easy to this former sales gal. There's something about meeting others face-to-face that an online event just can't capture. The energy in the room, the dynamic between individuals that you can sense when they're in front of you, the fact that you're dealing with a human being looking directly into your eyes to make a connection. I find that connections and even friendships develop much more quickly when we're in physical proximity to one another. First, we're inclined to be on our best behavior to treat the other person with attention and a modicum of respect when they're talking to us just inches away. Or at least you should, if your mother brought you up properly. We can't just disappear instantly from the room by hitting a button to "leave the meeting" or listen invisibly by turning off our camera. We're more memorable to each other because we tend to be "all there" vs. listening while distracted with other things going on in your physical space. On the down side, some people just aren't comfortable walking into a room where they don't know anyone and striking up a conversation with a random stranger. In person events may not be conveniently scheduled at a place and time that work for you. There's traffic to contend with, travel time to factor in, dressing professionally (and not just from the waist up), and perhaps a bit of money to spend just to attend. Oh, and to park your car. Pros and cons of virtual networking Virtual networking, on the other hand, allows you to participate in events anywhere in the world, anytime of the day or night. I thoroughly enjoy networking with new friends I've made in Australia, Europe, the US west coast ... just about anywhere! I've had the opportunity to learn from people I otherwise would never have met and to participate in more events than I would care to spend the time and money otherwise to attend. I've also had the great pleasure to participate as a speaker in some wonderful virtual conferences. Virtual attendance also allows me to sample more events, too, and to just disappear by leaving the meeting if they fail to meet expectations. Chat windows are invaluable for instantly sharing group information or for reaching out privately to other attendees. I also appreciate being able to drop in for as much time as my schedule allows, without risking the embarrassment of being caught sneaking out of a less than stellar physical event. As for the cons, well, like I said, virtual networking for me just doesn't pack as big a punch as meeting people online. It can be problematic for event planners, too, who can't as easily gauge the interest of their audience, especially if cameras are off. Furthermore, attendees can easily come and go - or not show up at all - and it can seem to speakers that they're talking into a void. In person networking lends a dynamic that you just can't duplicate online. Virtual networking, on the other hand, lets you participate in events anywhere in the world. Find the right mix for YOU It's a nice problem to have, being able to choose from so many networking organizations. I like a mix of both. In person, I have PROWIN , my local women's group, where I've taken a leadership position planning events like speaker luncheons. I truly enjoy sitting down to a great Italian family-style luncheon with a roomful of professional, business-minded women and learning from a terrific speaker. I also tremendously enjoy in-person voiceover conferences like VO Atlanta, where this year 1000 voice actors, coach, agents, casting directors, audio engineers, and many, many industry friends gathered to learn, network, and socialize. On the other hand, I'm actively involved with the Grand Connection , a virtual networking organization that brings together people (mostly) from all over the US and Canada. I've met so many interesting and talented people in all sorts of industries, given and received business referrals, and been invited to speak on at least a dozen or so podcasts and webinars since joining about 18 months ago. I've presented at Grand Connection conferences, too, and donated gifts of services to their giveaways for members and guests. In fact, if you're reading this in July 2024, click here to access over 50 free gifts from participating businesses. Here's a sneak peak at six businesses, of which I am one, that are donating gifts (I come on at 17:43): Whichever you choose, do what's best and most comfortable for you. One size certainly does not fit all and our preferences will shift with our moods, availability, and circumstances in life. The point is to network. How you do it is truly secondary to doing it in the first place. Laura's Quick Tips It's a banquet out there! Check out networking organizations that are within your industry, your locale, or aligned to your field. Don't overdo it; I find that two or three good organizations are enough, especially if you're going to devote sufficient time to get to know the people in them and take advantage of what the organization has to offer. You'll get the most value from the organizations you give of your time and talent. Every organization is eager to recruit contributors. Choose carefully, but know that you'll often gain more in benefits than what you provide with increased visibility, relationship-building, and demonstrations of your knowledge and skills. Don't forget to look into the groups hosted on Facebook and LinkedIn. I'm active in quite a few Facebook groups geared for actors, voice actors, and local women in marketing and communications. They provide excellent advice, support, and information that's timely and relevant to their niche membership. While they're technically not networking organizations, I've made many strong connections through them. LinkedIn groups generally are not so strong; many of them are too filled with people advertising their services to suit me. Search for groups in your industry and see which ones are actively run and managed by hands-on administrators. Keep your eye out for private groups, too. These may or may not have a memershipship involved, but I belong to one, Espresso+ run by LinkedIn guru John Espirian , that is a consistent source of excellent advice and information from top notch LinkedIn coaches around the world. Networking is terrific, but have you thought of leveraging media publications for some easy and free PR? Seriously! Read more about it here >   I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos, presentations, and online appearances. Got a project in mind? ... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Media outlets are looking for interesting small business and entrepreneurs to promote in their communities If you're a small business owner, entrepreneur, or freelancer like me, you're looking for inexpensive (read: free) or innovative ways to promote yourself. Why not with a digital publication? No, I'm not talking about a self-publishing scheme, but real media exposure. Beyond the local newspapers and magazines are legitimate media companies that actively look for interesting people and business stories to feature in their markets. How do I know this? I've been featured by several of these publications about my work as an actor and voice talent. And this month, VoyageATL gave me the opportunity to talk about my other role as a coach and consultant, helping non-actors gain On Camera Confidence for themselves. Free PR? Yes! And it's all above board. Everyone's looking for good content these days. Help out a media publication ... and yourself in the process. The Voyage Magazine media family VoyageATL is part of the Voyage Magazine media family. Its name reflects the region it covers, like VoyageLA for Los Angeles, VoyageChicago for Chicago, and VoyageATL for Atlanta. It covers a number of U.S. cities and looks to bring interesting stories to its readers about local startups, risk takers, and enterprising artists. VoyageATL has run a feature on me before (lucky me!), but they wanted to learn more about my On Camera Confidence coaching/consulting business, as well as touch on my work as an actor. Of course, I was more than happy to oblige. (Surprise, surprise, an actor liking publicity. Go figure!) You can click on the link above to see the article. How you can be found? What should you expect? So how does this work? How did they find me and how is the interview constructed? To tell you the truth, I'm not exactly sure how they found me! They do ask their interviewees to refer them to other small businesses that we think their readers would be interested in, and I have done so. Perhaps it was someone who liked my work who told the right person who was associated with their magazine. It doesn't matter much; it's just nice to be found. How can you be found? You can contact them directly or you can reach out to me and I can send an email on your behalf. No guarantees, though! If you're nervous about being interviewed ... don't be. They use a very informal approach. The Voyage family seeks to be informative, very casual, and approachable. They like to feature people using their own words, which also makes it easier on their own staff. Rather than having an interviewer posing pre-formulated questions, Voyage offers a list of questions online and gives you the choice of which ones to answer. You answer in your own words, upload photos for added interest, and then wait for them to review and (if necessary) edit the piece. A few weeks later, they'll send you an email with a link to review your interview before it's published. They'll take your corrections and changes, nicely lay it out, and then voila! You'll be sent a link a few weeks later to your story in their "Hidden Gem" magazine section. Free publicity! Nice. Want to be featured yourself? Check these out: Voyage Magazine Canvas Rebel Shoutout There are a few others, too, but these are the ones I've been featured in - and they have all done a nice job of it. FYI, these publications are all part of one large organization, Voyage Group of Magazines. They also have a side hustle to commemorate your name in print. I have no need for it, but some people like to preserve their articles in more permanent form. Will this type of PR bring you tons of new business and sudden fame? Probably not. But I find it fun to be in them. They've been great for SEO, social media content ... and impressing your mother. So, if in additoin to everything else, making your mother proud is your thing, now you have one more way to do it. (Yes, she'll be very proud of you.) Enjoy! Oh, and if you didn't click on the photo above, here's where you can find my article . Online media publications provide a modern example of "high tech, high touch" - using technology to promote the unique human element of who you are and the value you bring. Looking to improve? Work with me here: Want more? Get exclusive access to fresh ideas, tips, and content... You didn't think I'd let a chance go by without saying something about my On Camera Confidence services, did you?! You can find out all about them by clicking on that pretty little box above with the "Book Now" label. But if you're interesting in learning something about what it's like being a professional film, TV, and voice actor and maybe even how to get started yourself... well, then check out the rest of my blog. You'll want to click these next bright blue words with the two arrows. Yup, right here.... Get access >> I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos, presentations, and online appearances. Got a project in mind? ... Let's Talk! ACTING •  VOICE OVER • CONSULTING •  COACHING

We draw inspiration from real life. Truth IS stranger than fiction, especially where people are concerned. "How did you come up with THAT?!" Usually (though not always) it's said as a compliment. And oftentimes, there's an interesting backstory, too. A weird situation or someone who is, as our mothers would say, a real character. Actors are known to be keen observers of the human condition. Why not? There's some pretty entertaining stuff out there. The same thing can be said of sales people or anyone else who deals regularly with the public. Way back when the dinosaurs roamed the earth and I was an IT sales rep, I learned to "read the room" and attune myself to prospects and clients. It all helped to better understand where they were coming from (their pain points) and what they wanted or needed from me, so I could tailor a strong solution to their problem. The difference as an artist is that I can now have fun with those foibles and use what I see in my work. That wouldn't have gone over too well in my buttoned-up business world, but as an actor - hoo boy! Some of these people can become the basis for rather memorable characters for film and TV. Just ask any actor - they'll tell you that at some point, they've "borrowed" an unusual way of speaking or behaving, probably exaggerating it a bit, and put it to work. Don't let a difficult person get to you. File away their idiosyncracies and use them for full effect later. It's the best way to get even. The actor's inspiration: a self-described evil stepmother I recently filmed a very funny scene for a new production called Canton Abbey . It's a parody of Downton Abbey , produced by my friend and talented British actress and voice actor Sarah Mitchell . The name of her company, Southern Fried Brits, tells you all you need to know: proper English decorum meets the deep South and all our uniquely American traditions. Tailgate parties, for example. My character was originally written to be played by a rather stuffy corporate type, a man, but as we got to playing with her, she morphed into something much larger and wackier. Since the scene was to be played against the very proper British butler, and this WAS a comedy, the contrast of opposites was called in to play: I'm rather short (5'3") and petite, while our butler, actor Jeffrey Bigger , is much taller and sturdier, yet my character was the one in charge. My character thought she was quite proper, but was all too evidently demonstrative, looser and louder, and more unpredictable than our stiff and formal friend, the butler. American brashness and arrogance was on display vs. the quieter and more disciplined British stiff upper lip. I was inspired to change her voice, too, once I started thinking of similarities to my late stepmother-in-law. Ah, now she was a piece of work. This was the woman who at my wedding introduced herself to my parents and extended family and friends as "the evil stepmother." And then proceeded to get quite drunk at the reception. The character (wine and all) There was a LOT to mine there. Her quasi-mid-Atlantic accent borrowed heavily from Katherine Hepburn movies. Her nose in the air as she looked down at the rest of us with more than a touch of self-importance and critical judgment. And always a glass of wine ... or something. My character was more likeable than the inspiration. Still snooty, but well-meaning. She had a an earnest, pompous Frasier-like air of self-importance about her than any real vindictiveness. But the glass of wine stayed to kick off the scene with a little unscripted humor. After all, a little physical humor - underplayed - can be very effective. I can't wait to see the finished product! Snippets promise that it'll be a real hoot. Hey - it IS set in the Deep South, y'all. "The butler situation here in America is pathetic. People don't want to do hard work. They want (gasp) lunch breaks and consecutive vacation days." (shudder) Laura's Quick Tips People are funny. Really. Keep your eyes and ears open for inspiration. It truly IS all around you. Humor comes from real truth brought to light. Been bitten by the acting bug yourself? Find out how you can begin a professional acting career - even if it's only part-time - the smart way, learning about the industry and avoiding the scammers. Read more about it here > Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Shooting a video outside? Or inside, but want to use natural light? Good Lighting, like great sound, is an absolute must when you're making a video. It doesn't matter how casual or produced your video will be - the subject has to be easily seen, with no overexposure due to overly bright lights or in dark shadows, either. Unless you're making a horror movie, I suppose. Or a story about some unsavory underworld figures. Assuming that it's a straightforward video, here are some basic guidelines to follow, whether you're shooting inside or outdoors. If you're traveling without a professional crew or equipment, you need to know how to use what's available. Good lighting is essential to making a video. The subject has to be easily seen. Nothing too bright or too dark. No lurking in shadows, either. Subscribe on YouTube for new videos! Laura's Quick Tips Shooting outdoors? A cloudy, overcast day is best! (Assuming it's not raining.) Don't have the sun glaring directly into your camera lens. Inside, a natural window can cast most of the light you need ... as long as you can mitigate shadows. Use standing or desk lamps to illuminate your subject. Be careful of overhead lights, though. They can cast unattractive shadows on the subject's face. You don't have to a Director of Photography or a professional videographer to know the basics. A simple understanding of lighting techniques and using what's around you is usually sufficient to creating a video that's well-lit and easy to watch. Want some more useful tips? Check out these On Camera Tips for Success . Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos, presentations, and online appearances. Got a project in mind? ... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Lights! Camera! Action! Well, actually, there's a little more to it than that. Here's how to create a basic but professional video studio. So many people hesitate to begin making videos because they just don't know what to do. How do I act? (What do I do with my hands? Where do I look? What the heck's going on?!) What do I say? (and say it well!) How do I tape myself and come off professionally and credibly? I've covered the first two points in earlier videos, so now it's time to talk about your basic video setup. It can be done rather easily, very afffordably, and created just about anywhere you need to be. Office, home, or on the road - the principles are the same. Here's your handy-dandy guide to all the basics: camera, lighting, sound, and background or environment. All you need is a small space and a little know-how, and you'll be good to go! When you learn the basic video techniques, you'll find that you can adapt them to any location ... and create more professional studios that stand out on social media. Subscribe on YouTube for new videos! Laura's Quick Tips Keep the end result in mind - the focus is on your message, so your "set" can be minimal. You may already have much of what you need, starting with your cell phone's camera. Videos for social media today do NOT have to be fancy! In fact, simple and casual cell phone videos with a short, straightforward message often do better than highly produced projects. Have any questions about your particular setup? As a professional screen and voice actor, I've created my own videos and audio files for all sorts of situations in all kinds of odd places. Need to film yourself (or others) while you're out of town traveling? I can tell you how to use the furniture and space within a hotel room, work around sunny or not-so-great days outside, and create interesting backdrops wherever you may be. Schedule your free consult below and we'll see how we can get you filming like a pro. Want to check out some of the other videos in this series? They're all in my On Camera Tips for Success . Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos, presentations, and online appearances. Got a project in mind? ... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

How to make an impact with memorable business videos I had the absolute pleasure to sit down with Atlanta-based Maxwell Bentley of Bentley Media to talk about business storytelling - and how to make it memorable. How you tell a story is as important as the story itself, shaping the audience's perception of a business and the people behind it. We had a lively 22 minute discussion about the storytelling process and how to use your unique voice to share your message. What did we talk about? How to tell your story with video The elements you need to make your story successful Human vs. AI storytelling The creative team and how actors and producers work together How producers (or at least this one!) find their talent We pulled the curtains back on video production so you can see why video is the #1 marketing tool on social media. With the vast majority of online audiences preferring video to any other media, it makes sense to learn how to pack the biggest punch with your future clients. Develop your On Camera Confidence so you can tell your business story on video! Work with me 1-on-1 to improve your performance - and make the camera your ally Here are a few options to get your own business story out there: Reach out to a professional video production company like Maxwell 's if you want a full-service approach. Reach out to me if you're looking to becoming more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos and other online appearances. Just getting started and need to know what to do first? Schedule a free 15 minute consult and I'll talk you through it. You'll begin building your social media presence in no time! Tell your business story on social media with video! It's the best way to get noticed. Learn how become more effective on camera! I'm Laura Doman, a voice & TV/film actor and video communications coach. As an actor, I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories well, from the friendly CEO to your sassy best gal pal dispensing real-world advice. As a coach, I help you become more comfortable and charismatic on camera yourself for videos, presentations, and online appearances. Got a project in mind? ... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Do you know the secret to drawing people in with your videos? Working the camera ... that's what Elizabeth Walker and I talked about in her most recent podcast, "Dear Business Coach." Not surprisingly, there's a difference between appearing on camera as an entrepreneur vs. as a film/TV actor. But you'd be surprised how much the two do have in common! On camera skills work for a career in business, not just one in film and TV. "Hey buddy, up here...." How many women have thought that when they're talking to a guy who seems fixated on their chest? Way too many! Not only is staring at a woman's chest rude (and tells us all we need to know about the guy), it reinforces the fact that people truly communicate when we look into each other's eyes. News alert: they really are the windows to our soul, our awareness, what have you. All this is to say that the old adage, "look 'em in the eye," means something. In person and on camera. The eyes are what the camera captures most and how we assess whether we believe what the other person is saying. Elizabeth and I talked about how video and film magnify the viewer's relationship to the person on screen, whether or not it's for business or entertainment. What's it like working in the entertainment industry? Ever wonder what it would be like as a professional actor? Or how to get started without getting scammed in the process. Sadly, there are a lot of unethical people out there who make comfortable livings out of selling dreams - with nothing to manifest them - to trusting folks. Especially to well-meaning parents who want to help their children begin a career as a professional actor. Buyer beware! We talked about some of the red flags you need to look out for. How to handle expectations or demands for you (or your child) that will supposedly fulfill your dreams, but only cross the lines you have regarding nudity, strong language, or dangerous situations. Avoid the scammers and learn to navigate the entertainment industry safely! Laura's Quick Tips Video is #1 in popular, trending content. Want to connect with viewers? Look them in the eyes ... even if you're just seeing a camera lens. Curious about acting for film or TV? Have fun, learn the ropes, but know that it's also a business that requires some investment ... and a lot of common sense. Check out my funny short video series called MOMisms . They're proving very popular! Elizabeth and I covered a lot of ground! She was particularly interested in what it's like being a film/TV actress and how I went from Corporate to Creative. Curious how you can do the same? Funny you should ask. I have an article about it right here . Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, voice & TV/film actress, and video communications coach. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice. And I can help you tell your story well, too! ... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Join me for the Platinum Resource Group's Friday coffee chat! Are you uncomfortable in a Zoom room? Don’t know quite what to do or how to project an executive presence when you’re speaking to the camera for a marketing or internal video? If you’d like to establish a strong, confident online presence, please join me and the Platinum Resource Group Friday, April 19 at 8 am PST/11 am EST. We'll talk about how to build trust, credibility, and rapport with your audience, even when it's pre-recorded. (Hint: It’s all in how you speak, comport yourself, and make your viewers feel about you and your message!)  It's FREE! Learn how become more effective on camera! I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Are you a podcaster? Interested in AI? Learn how to create, grow, and monetize your brand! I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be taking the virtual stage as a speaker at the upcoming Podfest Masterclass: A.I.& Creator Tools Summit on April 19 and 22-24, 2024. If podcasting and learning more about AI tools spark your interest, please join me! I'm one of more than 30 speakers and industry experts on the BEST and HOTTEST AI tools to use in 2024, with topics on: Automating your content creation Leveraging AI for streamlined productivity Building & monetizing your podcast through social media I'm part of the social media growth and monetization track, presenting on: How to Grow Your Podcast Audience by Networking on LinkedIn Wednesday, April 24 9 am PST/Noon EST I’ll share my best tips for harnessing the power of the global LinkedIn network to attract listeners, guests, and sponsors. My 30 minute talk will touch on: Why LinkedIn? Tailoring your profile for max visibility How to network, engage, and build your fan base The visual element   Communities for podcasters Interested? If you’re a podcaster, a guest, or aspiring to be one or the other (maybe both!), grab your FREE ticket using the code DOMAN50 . Visit https://podfestexpo.com/masterclass/ or register at the touch of this handy-dandy button: Podfest is also about networking with other podcasters and having a bit of fun. Like with this cool graphic ⬆️ the conference hosts made with AI for me to use. You know it’s AI-generated, ‘cause I don’t usually sit around looking all glammed up like that (though the longer hair IS kinda nice....). I'll be sitting in on the other sessions to see which tools they used to do that!   #podfestmasterclass24 #podfam #podfest I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Learn to stop the scroll! Gone are the “Mad Men” days when marketing was all about advertising on billboards, in newspapers, and via flyers delivered to your mailbox. Now most marketing is done online through social media and user communities. Do you know how to leverage them to grab attention and draw business to your website? Content Creation for Social Media Work with me 1-on-1 to create great online content that attracts buyers! ! I’ll show you how to pack a punch online with content that stands out How to market your business in today’s digital and AI world. How to stand out from your competition with unique content. How to use different media for maximum impact. How to draw the right audience to your website. And how to tailor your content to pack the biggest punch on each social media channel.    Get help with Understanding today’s social media landscape Planning your content strategy Creating great content that entertains as well as inform Your future customers will only give a few seconds to decide if they’re interested in your product or services. Isn’t it time to stand out from the pack and stop their scroll? Looking to improve? Work with me here: Want more? Get exclusive access to fresh ideas, tips, and content... Everything you need to become more comfortable and charismatic on camera - for videos, Zoom presentations, and online appearances. We'll cover specific techniques gleaned from the entertainment world to have you speaking more conversationally and dynamically. Want to know how to shake off those pesky nerves? We'll share some surefire ways to relax both your mind and body. Or maybe you're worried about the tech aspect and how to create your own video recording space or what to expect when you work with a production team? No problem, we've got you covered there, too. Get access >> I'm Laura Doman, Actor & Voice Artist, Coach of On Camera Confidence, and a former tech industry Sales Exec. I help business people shine on camera, using performance skills I've honed through years of corporate experience and on-camera appearances... More about me >> ACTING •  VOICE OVER • CONSULTING •  COACHING

I'm not into the "humble brag." I'm just pleased as punch to be interviewed by a local online publication. It's always nice when a colleague thinks to refer you as an interesting interview subject. Hats off to life coach Erin Newman for speaking on my behalf to Shoutout Atlanta ! This is the second time in three years that they've run a story on my work - which has evolved, as these things do. Editors are always looking for a story with a twist. Our experiences are all different - and people like to learn from them. Older, but not irrelevant! What conventional advice would you disagree with? I didn't need long to think about it. It was the subject of one of my first conference speeches a few years back. Ageism is a bias that's fairly prevalent in our society and one that's rarely brought up in discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The aging process doesn't distinguish between race, religion, or nationality. Some cultures still revere their elders, but many modern societies don't. Including ours. We all get older. And we all want to remain relevant. Respected. Acknowledged. And not shunted aside. As a woman of "a certain age," I have a few things to say about conventional advice that encourages retirement for older workers, especially those of us who still have some fire in our bellies ... and much to offer. Corporate to Creative There are many of us out there who have made the transition from a corporate career to creative or artistic pursuits. And even more people who'd like to do the same, perhaps while they're still young or while raising a family, or in their later, "downsized" years when they have more leisure time at hand. I shared my journey from IT corporate sales exec to full-time mom to actor/voiceover artist/business coach. Does an acting career interest you? If so, I have an article that overviews the industry and how to get started the smart way (i.e. avoiding the scammers). Don't let it get to their heads, but we can and do learn from our kids. Occasionally. 🤫 Welcome to Hotlanta! Yeah, we call Atlanta that because it gets so darn hot and humid in the summer. But it's also a hot (as in "happening" - I know, an old term, but hey! I've earned it) place to be, with so much going on. Shoutout Atlanta wanted to know where I'd take a visitor - but who can choose just one place? So I named our top attractions and some favorite local spots, figuring there's something in there for everybody. If you're thinking about traveling to Atlanta sometime soon, check 'em out. We can all learn from our kids Lastly, I was invited to give a shoutout to someone who I thought deserved it. While she'll probably never, ever read this post or the ShoutOut article itself (I'd be very surprised if she did), I dedicated the interview to my teenage daughter Rachel. I have learned a few things from her. Like how I need to leave my beloved capris behind. Evidently, they reek of the 90's and belong squarely in the grandma pile. Hmmm. I'm not totally convinced of that, but I do have to give her credit for leading me into the entertainment world full-time. I had done some professional film, TV, and commercial work on the side long ago when I had my corporate career, but Rachel's interest in moving from the stage to the on-camera world relit that old fire, and I talk about it in the article. ... which just so happens to be available here : I hope you enjoy it. ❤️ And if you live in the Atlanta area and have an interesting perspective on your industry, let me know if you'd like a referral! I'm always happy to "pay it forward. Just comment below or send me an email . Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY

Tell your business story ... AND keep your viewers' attention Who doesn’t love a good story? The basics apply, whether it’s a ghost tale told over a campfire or the story of your business:   Grab ‘em Show ‘em Advise ‘em   Coupled with an interesting delivery, of course.   Make it short and get right to the point. What’s the dilemma? Who’s the hero? The solution? The journey from here to there?   FYI, the hero is how commercial scripts describe their main character. Because they always win. If the hero loses, well … I guess it becomes a PSA. 😆 If you’re making your own videos, deliver the value up front. But if you want to stop the scroll and keep viewers glued to their screens, a strong delivery is the icing on your cake. Subscribe on YouTube for new videos! Laura's Quick Tips Grab your viewers with an intriguing question, statement, or fact. Show the innovative solution to the problem. Back up your claims with a demo, detailed info, instructions, etc. Don’t forget your dynamic delivery! People will watch your video if you’re interesting, engaged with your materials, personal and human in your delivery (hey, it IS the age of AI), and actually enjoying talking to your audience.   Happy storytelling! Find this helpful and want more? Check out On Camera Tips for Success . Want help developing your on-camera confidence? I'm Laura Doman, a former tech industry sales executive, hands-on mom, voice & TV/film actress, and improv performer. I create memorable characters that tell my client's stories, from the friendly CEO touting new upgrades to your sassy best gal pal dispensing some necessary, real-world advice... Let's Talk! COMMERCIALS •  EXPLAINER VIDEOS • CORPORATE NARRATION •  ELEARNING • K12 • MEDICAL NARRATION • CHARACTERS & ANIMATION • TELEPHONY