Hiring a Voiceover Agent?

Especially if you are just beginning your career as a voiceover talent, you may find yourself frustrated as you look at the meager list of work laid out ahead of you.  It does take time to make your name in this industry, and even then, there will be periods of time that see less work that you’d like.  If these times are arising too frequently, if you are struggling to maintain a consistent flow of work, or you have difficulty knowing when and where to audition, then you might consider hiring a voiceover agent.

It’s true that a great agent can do a great deal for your career as a voiceover actor or actress.  

However, there are a few things that you should be aware of:

#1. No all agents are created equally.  Not only are there some who are by far better at what they do than others, there are also a few who are all too willing to take advantage of a person unfamiliar with the ins and outs of the industry.  Be sure that you carefully vet potential agents before signing anything.  Talk to several, get a good idea of how such contracts are written, and be sure that you are entirely comfortable with the details contained within.

#2. Not all agents will take you on.  Most agents will work on a commission-like basis.  So, they get paid when their clients secure work.  That means that they want to have clients that are apt to get the paying jobs.  If they feel that you lack the skill or experience to do so, they may opt not to take you on.  Furthermore, some agents don’t have enough time in the day to handle any more talents, so they will refuse you out of necessity.  Don’t take it personally.  Just keep working toward your goal and keep looking around for the agent that is a perfect fit for you.

#3. Having an agent doesn’t guarantee you the job.  You will still have to audition and interview for potential jobs.  The agent just helps to open more doors for you, so you have the opportunity to audition.