In the voiceover world, a signatory is a company or person who signs a union deal with a union like SAG-AFTRA. This means they agree to follow the union's rules. These rules cover things like paying actors fairly, giving them benefits, and making sure they're treated right.

Having a signed union deal changes things a lot for voice actors and the work they do. It makes sure they get paid well, get extra money for their work, and have a say in their contracts. It also helps keep them safe and gives them better chances to find work.

Companies that work with signatories can pick from a big group of talented voice actors. This group includes over 160,000 SAG-AFTRA members. They're a mix of famous people and others who work behind the scenes.

Working with a signatory also helps production companies a lot. These companies know all about SAG-AFTRA's rules and contracts. They take care of things like checking scripts, making budgets, and paying actors.

When a company signs with SAG-AFTRA, they make sure they're paying fair rates and following safety rules. Actors in SAG-AFTRA work on a special pay scale. This scale is set by the union for companies that use union actors.

Being a signatory also lets union actors turn non-union jobs into ones that pay well. Through SAG-AFTRA, actors get health and retirement benefits. This gives them a sense of security they might not have in non-union jobs.

Being a signatory in the voiceover world means sticking to high standards and supporting the actors. It helps both the actors and the people making the productions. Everyone gets treated fairly and works in a quality setting.

Ways to Engage SAG-AFTRA Talent

When you need talented actors for your projects, think about using SAG-AFTRA talent. SAG-AFTRA is the biggest union for actors and performers. It makes sure they work under fair conditions and protects their rights. There are a few ways to work with SAG-AFTRA talent, each with good and bad points.

Becoming a SAG-AFTRA Signatory

One way is to sign the SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract directly. This lets your company hire SAG-AFTRA members for ads. But, you must follow SAG-AFTRA's rules, like paying residuals and health plans. This way, you get access to skilled actors but can't use non-union talent for future ads.

Working with a Third-Party SAG Signatory Company

Another choice is to use a third-party SAG signatory company. These companies are already signed with SAG-AFTRA. They let you hire SAG-AFTRA and non-union actors without being a signatory yourself. This is easier and lets you hire different types of talent. But, you might pay more through these companies.

One Production Only (OPO) Agreement

The One Production Only Agreement (OPO) is for producers with a single project. It lets you hire SAG-AFTRA actors without being a signatory long-term. This is good for short projects that don't need ongoing SAG-AFTRA commitment.

Think about the pros and cons of each option when choosing how to work with SAG-AFTRA talent. Being a direct signatory means more access to actors but costs more. Working with a third-party company gives you options but might be pricier. The OPO is best for one-off projects. Pick the option that fits your project and budget best.

How SoundBOX can help in converting work to union projects.

If you want to turn your non-union work into union projects in voiceovers, SoundBOX is a great choice. They have over 20 years of experience in the entertainment world. SoundBOX is an expert in SAG-AFTRA signatory services.

They help people and companies pick the right union contract for their projects. They also guide them on how to become a signatory.

SoundBOX is an official signatory with SAG-AFTRA. They work with different contracts like commercials, corporate/educational, and interactive media. If you're a new voice actor or a company wanting union talent, SoundBOX can help you.

Working with SoundBOX means you get to connect with many industry pros. Your project will meet union rules and standards. Their team takes care of paperwork and talks, so you can focus on being creative.

Before deciding, think about the good and bad of signing with SoundBOX and SAG-AFTRA. Union work has some rules and costs. But, you get to work with more talent, have better production quality, and follow industry standards. SoundBOX can help you decide by giving you all the info you need.

If you're ready to move your non-union work up, SoundBOX is here to help. They can turn your projects into union ones. This opens up more chances for you in the voiceover world.

FAQ

What does it mean to be a signatory in the voiceover industry?

Being a signatory means a company or person agrees to a union agreement, like with SAG-AFTRA. They agree to follow the union's rules. This includes paying talent, giving out residuals, and making sure voice actors are treated right.

What is the impact of a signed union agreement on voice talent and productions?

A signed union agreement helps voice actors get fair pay and protects their rights. It also gives them better job chances and working conditions. Productions can hire talented voice actors, even famous ones, through these agreements.

How can I engage SAG-AFTRA talent for commercial projects?

You can engage SAG-AFTRA talent in three ways. First, you can sign a direct agreement with the SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract. This is for ad agencies and brands. Second, you can work with a company like SoundBOX that offers SAG-AFTRA services. Third, you can make a One Production Only Agreement (OPO) with SAG-AFTRA.

What are the pros and cons of each option to engage SAG-AFTRA talent?

Being a direct signatory means you can hire talented actors but you can't hire non-union ones. It also means you have to pay for residuals and health plans. Working with a company like SoundBOX can make things easier but might cost more. A One Production Only Agreement lets you hire SAG-AFTRA talent for one project but doesn't offer the same benefits as being a direct signatory.

How can SoundBOX help in converting non-union work to union projects?

SoundBOX helps people and companies turn non-union work into union projects. They know which SAG-AFTRA contract is right for your project. They guide you through becoming a signatory or working with a third-party one. SoundBOX is authorized for different contracts like commercials and interactive media.