Getting Started as a Voice Over Talent

A few things to consider.

This is an unregulated industry – you make it or break it on your own – as they say. I think there are a lot of people who never figure it out, because it can be challenging to find your way. And if you’re determined – YOU will. At some point you have to decide whether to go for it. Then make a blood promise with yourself that you won’t quit – even when it gets hard. It will. All good things that make a difference come at a price.

That said, there are all sorts of folks who would love to make money off you that won’t be invested in your success. But there are good folks out there too – who are interested in helping you. Be prepared to pay for coaching and services. There are some freebies – but you have to pick and choose who to trust.

There’s no RIGHT way to start. At some point you must be able to produce broadcast quality audio for clients if you wish to have a prayer. This includes having a space to record in that is somewhat predictable in terms of noise or lack thereof. You need a decent mic, a DAW, audio/digital converter, and some skills in editing sound files.

You’d be smart to find a good coach that you like and trust. Who isn’t cheap both in terms of what she/he charges as well as the advice they give – to help you figure out some genres you could be good at and that you like.

You probably shouldn’t quit your day job – yet. Wait until you have some consistent work first. And then make sure it is consistent. Six months is a good start.

Connect with a community. Facebook – LinkedIn – down the street at your fav bar or coffee shop. It helps to know other folks in the industry who are succeeding and those who are starting out. I am facilitating 3 other newbies right now – and you’re welcome to join the party. We meet via zoom about once every 3 weeks.

That’s it for now.

Let me know if I can help in any other way.

You can practice anywhere. There are loads of online copy you can use. Record yourself. Listen. Tweak. Then listen to it again after 3+ hours and see what you need to change. Keep practicing.

Listen to what you like. Why do you like it? What works about it. Find something you don’t like. Why don’t you like it? What doesn’t work about it? See if you can record yourself doing both examples. Now try it with an accent. Or a different emotion. Listen 3+ hours later. What is working. What isn’t?