The “It” Factor in Voice Over

You’ve probably asked yourself more than once whether or not you have what it takes to succeed in the voice over industry. But let’s talk about that word - it. What is “it”? Most people would say something about “it” being the industry itself, or maybe the work that you put in. But I want to talk about “it” from another perspective - I want to talk about the “it” factor.

What is the “It” Factor?

The “it” factor is something that can’t be neatly packaged into just one word, like “special” or “talented.” It’s much more than that. It’s all-encompassing; it’s the whole package, if you will. The “it” factor is that element that gives one actor an edge over another, and draws people to them as if they were one big voice over magnet. Do you know what I mean? When someone has the “it” factor, you know it. You see them or hear them and you think, “Wow, that person is Amazing with a capital A.”

Creating Your Own “It” Factor

If my definition of the “it” factor is about as clear as mud, I apologize. But like I said, it’s not something that can be summed up in a word or two. Here’s what I do know, though. I can tell you some of the attributes that contribute to this larger state of being. They are:

●     Charisma

●     Preparedness

●     Humility

●     Intelligence

●     Honesty

●     Passion

●     Business acumen

●     Open mindedness

●     Creativity

Are you getting a sense now of why I said the “it” factor is the whole package? It’s never just one thing. You could be the most creative person in the world, but if your intentions are dishonest or you never display even an ounce of humility, you probably won’t get very far. If you want people to come to you, to stop what they’re doing to listen to you speak, you need to be the total package. Discover what areas you’re already good in, and work to improve in the places you’re not.  Taking this approach can help you develop your own “it” factor and help you stand out from the masses.
Now go... take "it" to the limit!