Expert to Know: Gloriel Taylor (Q&A Interview)

Gloriel Taylor is listed on 50Pros as a top 50 voiceover artist in the world. Based in Elkridge, Maryland, she shares deep insights, background, and experiences.

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How did you get into your industry?

Through a little bit or research and a lot of hard work. :)

What inspired you to start your agency?

My sister encouraged me to pursue, even though I had zero industry connections.

How do you manage work-life balance as an agency owner or executive?

Try to set a rough schedule and stick with it.

What is the best piece of advice you've received in your career that pertains to your work, and how has it influenced your decisions?

Don't overthink it & don't be too hard on yourself. Have fun and be yourself!

What activities or hobbies outside of work do you enjoy that help you recharge and stay creative?

Hiking (especially with my dog), watching cartoons, and spending time with my sisters being goofy.

What do you like most about your industry?

No two projects are ever quite the same, plus I have the flexibility of work-life balance that fits my everchanging lifestyle.

What do you dislike most about your industry?

Working with individuals that are unsure of what they want or how to direct.

If you could make 3-5 changes in your industry, what would they be?

I'm not sure, ask me in 5-10 years.

What do you wish people knew about your industry?

Maybe two things? VO actors need to price things high because not only are we self employed and have many expenses, we also only get one or maybe two VOs from each company a year. $500 won't pay the bills or cover good studio costs even if it is just a 15 second VO. On a lighter note, it's not always goofy voices. Sometimes it's just a relatable voice.

Can you share a situation where you had to make a tough business decision and the impact it had on your agency?

Not quite sure. It's hard to walk away from jobs or admit that they are out of your skill set at times.

When you first started, how did you get clients?

I signed up for P2P and just auditioned for EVERYTHING.

．．．and how do you get clients today?

I'm represented by ACM Talent as well as still doing P2P.

What is your approach to continuous improvement and learning within your agency?

Always ask for feedback! Even if I don't land the job, knowing what they're looking for next time is always helpful.

How do you stay updated on the latest technologies and tools relevant to your industry?

Keep my ear to the ground and try to work smarter, not harder.

What is the biggest issue that your firm, or firms like yours, face?

Honestly, some of the harder things would be AI or In Perpetuity usage. That normally comes up with contract negotiations.

What changes have you seen occur since you got into this business?

Companies that received a lot of clout or traffic have changed how they do things to further deepen their own pockets instead of actually helping talent.

Who do you see having a competitive edge in the future?

Hopefully myself!

If a company was looking to hire your firm, or a firm like yours, what questions should they ask themselves as a team before approaching you?

I've been told that hiring me and doing live sessions are a smooth process. Perhaps, "does she have the sound we're looking for?"

When a company is interested in hiring your firm, how should they approach you and how should they do business with you?

Feel free to email, text, call, or submit a form using my website!

How do you maintain strong relationships with clients to ensure long-term partnerships?

Being easy to work with, versatile in my delivery, and able to take direction and run with it!

If someone were thinking about starting their own agency in your industry, what advice would you give them?

If you learn on the go, just jump in, audition for everything, and ask for feedback!

What role does networking play in growing your agency's business?

I don't always do much of it, but it is very helpful. I wish I had more opportunities!

How do you ensure that your team members stay motivated and engaged in their work?

As the sole team member, it's mostly make sure you have enough sleep, take breaks, and try not to forget to eat lunch.

Do you have any facts, statistics, or figures about your firm or the industry as a whole, that you would like to share?

I've had the opportunity to work with a broad range of companies from Coca-Cola to local mom and pop shops. It's been a great few years and I can't wait to see who else I'm able to work with in the future.

Can you share an experience where your agency went above and beyond to exceed client expectations?

I always like to add additional takes when sending reads without live sessions. It gives the client lots of options and limits back and forth so projects are done a lot quicker.

What else would you like to publicly share about your firm or agency?

I'm looking forward to collaborating with you!