Tips for Finding Voice Over Work

Voice over is a highly competitive industry, and it can be challenging at times to find steady work.  However, if you’re got the talent and the motivation to build your career, then your chances of finding success as a VO actor are far greater.  First, though, you’ve got to find the work and get your foot in the door so you can start building your brand.  Here are some tips to help you start landing those coveted VO gigs:

Build your Brand – Before you can start earning a paycheck in voice over work, you need to figure out exactly what your brand is.  Who are you? What are you selling? Who will benefit the most from your talent?  These are questions you need to have the answers to in order to start establishing your brand. Figure out your strengths, whether it’s in corporate narration or video games and animation, and focus on those. In my case, The "Voice of Americana" slogan was developed after simply listening to what my clients were saying about my natural voice characteristics and finding where and what industries my style was most welcome.

Self-promotion – Promoting your brand is just as important as building it. After all, you need people to know who you are and what you’re about if you want to start getting work.  The easiest way to do this is to create a website dedicated to your voiceover career.  Adding a blog to your site will keep it fresh and relevant, and you can also use social media platforms and link those back to your website.

Networking – Networking is huge, too.  Sometimes, it’s all about who you know, but to do that, you’ve got to get out there and meet people.  Take classes, attend workshops and seminars, and talk to everyone you can.  This may include talent scouts, agents, producers and other behind-the-scenes folks, or even other voice over actors.  Be sure to follow up promising leads with phone calls and emails as well.

Talent Agent – Hiring an agent is another way to land work, but the trick is finding an agent that A) is great at what they do, and B) has a need for you.  Do your homework on this one, and spend some time researching agents to find one who is reputable and experienced.  Send them your demo reel. ( But only after you've contacted them and received their permission. Unsolicited demos are not welcome. Some agents prefer them to be attached to emails. Some would rather you send a link to your demo. Respect their requirements. And be sure to send along your basic contact info and maybe a short bio. The will request further information if they're interested in representing you.