Voice Over Business

Have you ever been told that you have a captivating voice or an exceptional ability to bring words to life? If so, you might want to consider turning your vocal talents into a profitable career by starting a voice-over business. Voice over work is in high demand across various industries, including advertising, entertainment, e-learning, and more. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to kickstart your versatile voice-over business successfully.

Self-assessment and Skill Development

Before diving into the world of voice-over, it’s crucial to assess your strengths and weaknesses. Take some time to understand your unique vocal qualities. Are you great at character voices, narration, or commercial scripts? Recognizing your niche will help you market yourself effectively.

Additionally, consider investing in voice-over training or workshops to hone your skills. Many online platforms and local schools offer courses that can help you improve your voice control, articulation, and script interpretation. There are a multitude of amazing voice over coaches online. Luckily with platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype there’s no excuse why you can coach with the best in the world from the comfort of your home.

I got started with my business coaching with Marc Cashman for Commercial voice over. I then coached with Thom Pinto for Corporate Narration and Documentaries, lastly with Elle Ray Hennessey for Animation. Coaching is a life-long development plan in voice over. Even the best actors in the world coach throughout their career. So consider taking classes each year to enhance your acting skills.

Build a Home Studio

Creating a professional home studio is one of the most critical steps in starting a voice-over business. To begin, you’ll need the following equipment:

– A high-quality microphone
– Pop filter
– Headphones
– Soundproofing materials (e.g., foam panels)
– Digital audio recording and editing software (e.g., Adobe Audition, Pro Tools)
– A reliable computer
– A quiet and well-insulated recording space

Investing in quality equipment is essential, as your voice recordings must sound professional and clear. You can find a variety of microphone options to suit different budgets, but make sure to do thorough research before making a purchase. When starting my voice over business I did a solid four months of research before diving in.

Develop a Portfolio

To attract clients, you’ll need a compelling voice-over portfolio that showcases your range and capabilities. Create sample recordings that demonstrate your versatility. Include various styles such as commercials, narration, character voices, and more. These samples should be polished and of the highest quality. There is several websites that have free scripts available for you to use to create your own demos. Alternatively, you could also write your own scripts.

Most industries experts suggest starting with a Commercial demo. Use 5-6 15-20 second clips showcasing your versatility in acting.

If Animation is your dream consider starting with an animation demo showcasing a variety of characters, some hyper, some relaxed, the more variety the better.

Marketing and Branding

Establishing a strong online presence is crucial for your voice-over business. Create a professional website that features your portfolio, contact information, and a brief biography. As well write as many articles as you can using key voice over words and SEO in order for buyers to find you on search engines such as Google. Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with potential clients and fellow voice-over artists. You can start your business with websites such as a WIX site, or if you prefer to be more niche Voice Acting Websites is a great company that specializes in voice acting websites.

Consider branding yourself with a unique name and logo. A memorable brand can help you stand out in a competitive market. Choose a logo that really speaks to your talent, integrity and goals.

Networking

Networking is an integral part of the voice-over industry. Attend industry events, join online forums, and engage with professionals in the field. Building relationships with fellow voice actors, agents, and potential clients can open up opportunities for collaborations and job offers. There are more industry events than ever to meet other voice actors and buyers in the market. Use them to your advantage.

Market Research and Pricing

Understanding the voice-over market is essential for setting competitive rates. Research industry standards and the rates charged by voice-over artists with similar experience and skill levels. Don’t undervalue your services, but be realistic about your pricing, especially when you’re just starting. Websites such as Gravy for the Brian, VO Network and GVAA Rate Guide have rate guides that can familiarize yourself with the going rates in the voice over industry.

Audition and Job Hunting

Join online platforms like Voices.com, Fiverr, or Upwork, which connect voice-over artists with clients seeking their services. These platforms offer a wealth of audition opportunities and can be an excellent way to kickstart your career. This is how I got my start in voice-over. I started with a voices.com membership and slowly but surely, I began to build up my voice-over portfolio and from that I was able to acquire multiple international agents.

Legal and Financial Considerations

Consult with a legal professional to determine the best business structure for your voice-over business, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Ensure that you have proper contracts in place for your clients to protect your interests.

Keep meticulous records of your income and expenses, as you will need them for tax purposes. Also educate yourself on the tax write-offs for voiceover. Choose a tax consultant that you trust and or specializes in the entertainment business.

Conclusion

Starting a voice-over business can be a rewarding endeavor, combining your passion for voice acting with the potential for financial success. With dedication, continuous self-improvement, and a strong online presence, you can establish yourself as a reputable voice-over artist and thrive in this competitive industry. Remember that building a voice-over career takes time, persistence, and a commitment to delivering high-quality work to your clients.

In the world of voice acting, your demo reel is your calling card. It’s the tool that introduces you to potential clients and casting directors, showcasing your talent and versatility as a voice actor. However, creating a compelling and professional voice over demo reel requires the expertise of a skilled producer. Choosing the right voice over demo producer is a crucial step in your voice acting career. In this article, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect voice over demo producer.

Industry Experience

One of the first things to consider when choosing a voice over demo producer is their industry experience. You’ll want to work with someone who understands the nuances of the voice acting industry and has a proven track record of producing successful demos. Look for producers who have current experience working with a variety of voice actors and genres, as this demonstrates their ability to adapt to different styles and preferences. Demo producers should be working with talent and aware of what’s booking at the moment.

Be wary of Weekend Workshops that include a demo for a special rate! It is common for some low-level producers to offer Voice Over weekend workshops where they teach you the A-Z’s of voice over in three days then offer a special rate on a voice over demo at the end of the weekend. This is not a good idea. Voice over coaching takes time and is not something that can be learned over night. If you end up spending $600-$700 on a demo at the end of a voice over learning weekend, within three months your skills would have already improved and now you will stuck with a beginner demo.

Take your time to coach first, and once your reputable coach approves you to cut your demo then begin to do your research on who you’d like to work with. Sometimes the coach works in tandem with producers and can make good recommendations or you are free to choose your own.

Portfolio and Samples

Review the producer’s portfolio and listen to samples of their previous work. A reputable voice over demo producer should have a diverse portfolio that showcases a range of voice actors and genres. Pay attention to the quality of the recordings, the clarity of the voice actors’ performances, and the overall production value. A producer’s portfolio and samples will give you a good sense of their style and the quality of work they can deliver.

Note: If you are bilingual, keep one language at a time on each demo. As well, if you speak in various accents consider adding these accents to a separate demo. Diversity is incredible in voice over and you’ll want to ensure to highlight these skills in the proper way.

Personal Compatibility

Voice over demo production is a collaborative process, so it’s important to find a producer with whom you have good personal compatibility. You should feel comfortable communicating with them, sharing your ideas, and receiving feedback. A producer who can create a supportive and creative working environment will help you bring out your best performances. When deciding on a demo producer, I do extensive amount of research and like to have phone/zoom conversations with them in advance in order to see if we would work well together and have similar ideas.

Production Process

Ask about the producer’s production process. How do they approach script selection, coaching, recording, and editing? A well-structured process is essential for creating a polished and effective demo reel. Ensure that the producer’s workflow aligns with your preferences and timeline. I have four professional demos. One demo was recorded in 23 min and one in 2 hours. One producer wrote my copy for me with little analysis on which brands I wanted to highlight and one producer asked for me feedback multiple times and had multiple conversations about what companies fit with my brand strategy and what my ethics and beliefs are.

Customization

Every voice actor is unique, with different strengths and specialties. A good voice over demo producer should be able to tailor the demo to highlight your specific skills and range. They should take the time to understand your goals and create a demo that showcases your abilities in the best possible way. For my animation demo, I first had to work for weeks with a animation coach in order to create over 20 different characters. Once we had the characters set, the demo production was much easier to complete.

References and Reviews

Join VO groups on Facebook and other social media platforms in order to seek out references or read online reviews from other voice actors who have worked with producers. Conferences are another great way to speak to voice actors. Feedback from past clients can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, communication skills, and the overall quality of their work. Don’t hesitate to reach out to previous clients to ask about their experiences.

Pricing

Voice over demo production costs can vary widely depending on the producer’s experience and the level of service provided. While it’s essential to stay within your budget, prioritize quality over cost. Remember that your demo reel is an investment in your career, and a well-produced demo can open doors to more opportunities. My first demo was much more than I wanted to spend but once I posted my new demo online to my website and casting sites, I made back that initial investment within weeks. It was completely worth it and still is to this day.

Location and Accessibility

Consider the producer’s location and whether they offer remote recording options. With the rise of technology, many producers can work with voice actors from around the world. However, if you prefer in-person sessions, choose a producer who is accessible to you. Each demo I have was recorded remotely using Source Connect. One coach was located in my city and did offer the opportunity for me to travel into the city and record in her studio, yet, I was confident with my voice over booth and the recording came out with beautiful broadcast quality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right voice over demo producer is a crucial step in your voice acting journey. Take your time to research and consider the factors mentioned above to find a producer who can bring out the best in your voice and help you create a compelling demo reel. With the right producer by your side, you’ll be well-prepared to make a strong impression in the competitive world of voice acting.

When working every day, there can be busy times and slow times. The odd day of no voiceover work can feel amazing, allowing you to relax and rest. But when the days and weeks pass with little to no work, it can leave you anxious, bored, or unproductive. Recently, there have been drastic changes in the economy, which can affect most areas of business. Hence, it’s essential to have a plan of attack when it occurs.

When work is slow for an extended period, sitting back and waiting for things to pick up can be very tempting. However, this can be a missed opportunity to improve your skills and work on essential tasks you need time for. As a diverse, millennial, and contemporary voice actor, there are weeks where it is so busy I can barely keep up and weeks where nothing seems to be coming in. Here are some tips on what to do when work is slow.

Review Your Voiceover Work Calendar and Prioritize Tasks

The first thing you should do when work is slow is to review your current workload and prioritize your tasks. This will help you determine which tasks are the most important and which can be put on hold. You may not have been using your time wisely. Could you delegate some of the work to a friend or hire a virtual assistant? Many creatives use these methods to assist in lead generation. By prioritizing your workload, you can focus on what needs to be done and ensure you are not wasting time on low-priority tasks.

Take the Opportunity to Learn New Skills

It is an excellent opportunity to learn new skills to help you in your job or career. You can take online courses, attend webinars, or read books to improve your marketing, project management, and communication skills. LinkedIn and Skillshare are two popular platforms hosting hundreds of courses relevant to your industry. 

Because voiceover is a creative industry, having other interests outside of your line of work is critical. Learning other creative hobbies can allow you to think outside the box and indirectly benefit your own industry. Not only will this help you become a more valuable employee or entrepreneur, but it can also make you more attractive to potential employers.

Organize Your Voiceover Work Area

A slow period can be a great time to organize your workspace and eliminate clutter. When things are busy at work, cleanliness can fall to the waste side. A clean and organized workspace can help you stay focused and be more productive when work picks up again. You can also take the time to make sure all of your files and documents are properly labeled and stored, making it easier to find what you need when you need it. In my business, the times of the year when I usually find it slower are during the summer months and the last two weeks of the year during the holidays. These are times when I typically clean out and reorganize my office.

Network With Colleagues and Clients

It is also a good idea to network with your colleagues and clients during slow periods. You can set up coffee meetings or lunches to catch up and discuss potential projects or opportunities. This can help you build stronger relationships and potentially lead to new business or projects in the future. As previously mentioned, the last two weeks of the year tend to be slow, and many take time off during the holidays. This is a great time to write a card to your clients thanking them for their business during the last year or even drop them an email or a LinkedIn Message. 

During the summer months, I aim to call my clients on the phone and have a personal conversation that can be very beneficial to keeping that personal contact. Every touch point with a client is a chance to help them remember you and your talent.

Develop New Ideas and Strategies

Another productive way to spend time during a slow period is to develop new ideas and strategies for your business or department. You can brainstorm new products or services, think of ways to improve current processes or develop marketing or sales strategies. This can help you be more prepared when work picks up again and ensure your business is always moving forward. 

I do this again during the winter break to consider my business goals for the upcoming year. I also brainstorm with other voice actor friends in my industry as well. Sharing your goals with others can help you think out of the box, and you may devise a new plan you never thought of.

When voiceover gigs are few, it is important to use time wisely and make the most of it. By prioritizing your workload, learning new skills, organizing your workspace, networking with colleagues and clients, and developing new ideas and strategies, you can ensure that you are staying productive and setting yourself up for success when work picks up again.

Do you work in a creative industry and tend to feel pressure to be innovative? Are you an on-camera talent or voice actor having trouble booking work because you are in a creative slump? Well, I have good news for you. We have all been there, so here are some exciting and diverse tactics to get out of your voiceover creative slump. 

To have the ability and luxury of working in a creative field is something many people dream of. This may be because they need help finding a creative job that provides financial stability. I never had the luxury of working in a creative industry for the first half of my life, although I tried to be innovative in my administrative jobs. My supervisors knew I had a creative knack and tried their best to accommodate me, but most of my previous jobs have been pushing paper. 

Inspiring Change in Your Voiceover Creative Slump

If your job requires creative thinking, consider yourself lucky and grateful. To be creative is a skill that many need to possess. Most of us live a very routine life, generally doing the same tasks daily, and while some are ok with that, some are not. Although many like routine, others prefer to use their five senses to see, hear, smell, taste, or touch new and exciting things. Isn’t that what life is all about? 

Trying New Creative Tactics

Although working in a creative industry allows you to enjoy your work by thinking outside the box, sometimes, we can find ourselves in a rut. We may have used our best ideas and cannot think of more. Authors often call this writer’s block. Experiencing a creative block is normal, and there are tactics to use to break this cycle. They can recharge your creative juices and encourage overall happiness and fulfillment in your career.    

Get Out of Your Regular Routine 

This is the simplest way to get out of a creative slump. It could be as simple as changing the order in which you do your daily routine. Once you’ve changed your brain, you may experience a new and creative thought or idea. 

Stop Grinding Away in a Voiceover Creative Slump

You won’t have the luxury of completely walking away from your current position; that isn’t what we mean here. Sometimes you need to step away from a situation temporality, even for just a few minutes, to see things differently. You could turn off your computer for an hour, go for lunch, take a walk, or chat with a co-worker. This could be all you need for your creativity to return. 

Brainstorm & Collaborate

Trying various forms of brainstorming is an excellent way to get out of a creative slump. Different methods include mind mapping, star bursting, rapid ideation, role-storming, or word association. There are many ways to release new brainstorming techniques, which could lead to creative thinking. My favorite method of brainstorming is to do so with other peers, as they could pull out various ideas and thoughts that could lead your team down a beautiful road of creative thinking. 

Rest and Rejuvenate 

Similar to point two, get some rest. Rest will allow the brain to be in default mode. In this restful state, your brain becomes more flexible and novel. Experts think this is then when the creative lightbulb moments occur. It helps to switch on your divergent thinking. Meditation is also an excellent way to open the brain to think more creatively. Connecting to nature is a beautiful way to truly rest, which helps the brain come to a sense of calmness, allowing for more innovative thinking. 

Travel or Review Past Trips

Travel is a beautiful way to get out of a creative slump. The world is diverse and full of various people, ages, cultures, and attitudes. Many ideas will occur once you leave your town, city, country, or continent. For example, many of us enjoy eating chicken. How many ways can we prepare chicken, three or four if we like to cook? If you were to vacation to another country, you would no doubt learn another 3-4 ways to prepare the same chicken. I have traveled to 29 countries to date, and during my younger days, I spent quite a bit traveling throughout Europe and the Caribbean. 

I saw many exciting cultures, tasted many interesting foods, learned amazing dances, and met the most incredible people. I didn’t realize it then, but I was able to tap into so many resources that would help me later in my voiceover career. I picked up on different accents, which enabled me to audition. I can connect with my clients regarding their country and culture when interacting with them. I can think of creative ways to ad-lib in my auditions because I understand the target market of their country. I also know their culture’s business etiquette because I’ve interacted with their residents. These skills are invaluable, and I didn’t realize it then. I can’t speak enough about how important those years of travel were to my voiceover business. 

Get Some Fresh Air & Exercise 

Exercising is a wonderful way to boost creativity. Scientists believe that exercising can help boost endorphins which increase blood flow and can help to produce a happiness boost which helps fuel original or abstract thoughts. When I audition 20-30x a day, I repeat my methods, and my energy starts to fade. When this occurs, I turn off my computer, put on my shoes, and head for a 20-30 min walk. Upon arriving home, I feel awake and happier, with a sense of accomplishment. I jump back in my booth feeling confident, which always leads to a better, more realistic performance. 

Do Something Inspirational to Rise Above a Voiceover Creative Slump

This one may seem obvious but try your hand at a creative activity. As a voice actor, I take coaching sessions with a class to hear other voice actors’ skills. You could take up painting, dancing, photography, cooking, singing, creative writing, gardening, or interior design; the list is endless. There are so many diverse activities one can do that will no doubt spark some creative synapsis in the brain. 

It’s completely normal to fall into a creative slump at times, especially if we regularly work in a field that requires new and exciting ideas. If you fall into one of those modes, refer to the list above to help break the cycle and get you back to your unique, authentic creative self!