Learn to be a voice over talent! Also learn to build your own studio
for under $5000. If you have a computer with a CD burner, you can build
it for $2500. Everything you need is right here on this page.
Learning Voiceover Skills
Before getting into the business of voiceovers you have to determine
what you are good at. Is it commercials, narrations, imaging or
characterizations? These are the four main categories of voiceovers.
Each of these categories, branch off into almost an infinite amount of
sub categories. For example, tv spots, documentaries, animation and on hold messaging
just to name a few.
Find the one category you are good at and work at it first. On a daily
basis, listen to that particular category of voiceovers whether it's on
tv, radio or some other form of media. Also read books on the subject
and work with a coach. This takes time, so be patient. For individuals
already in the media (radio and tv personnel) wanting to make that
transition into the wonderful world of voiceovers, you've got a jump on
the others, but your work is definitely not done. Read on through and
I'm sure you've missed some steps. Below are links to recommended
reading:
Building Your Own Studio
Once you've educated yourself on your particular category, it's time to
set aside a location and collect the gear necessary for your studio.
Your studio can be in a closet, or a small spare bedroom. The smaller
the better. I've even heard of people putting sheds in the middle of
their living room and yes it works! At the very least, you will need a
mic, a preamp (if your mic doesn't have it's own power), a computer, a
simple audio editing program, an exceptional quality sound card, a CD
burner, and an mp3 conversion program. Now remember this is just a
start. Below are some books on acoustical design as well as software
and websites where you'll get great service on gear and more advanced
software.
Getting Your Business Organized
No business is "a business" unless you organize some of the traditional
elements needed to make a business run efficiently and professionally.
These elements include contracts, order forms, software for book
keeping, getting your fictitious name under a proprietorship or creating
a corporation. Business cards are also a must. Below you'll find very
important information in regard to starting your business.
Making Your Demo Rock
Your demo is "the" most important piece of your business. It not only
is a sample of your work, it's your calling card. Do not take your demo
for granted. If you can't produce an excellent demo yourself, make sure
you hire someone to give you the best. And make sure that someone has
done voiceover demos before. First test the waters, record some pieces
of copy and send them to a coach or someone heavily entrenched in the
industry. If they don't have a rate for this, offer them $25, so they
take you seriously when you send them stuff. Below is a
professional production company who's had much experience in putting together
voice-over demos.
How To Market Yourself
Now this is the REAL trick! This is what separates the regular talented
individuals from the professionals. And unfortunately, this does not
come free. Remember there are no quick fixes to
anything, and it takes time to build a reputation and name for yourself.
Closing The Deal Or Hiring Someone
This is your final hurrah! If you are not a very good business person
or you only want to concentrate on your talents rather than the business
aspect, you will need an agent or a manager. Most of the big talent
agencies will not take your phone call until you are well established.
That means you are already grossing $50-$100,000 worth of talent fees a
year from your voiceover work. Some smaller professional talent
agencies and production companies look for sheer talent and how
available you are. And it's important to note that the unprofessional
agencies and companies are even less demanding but they don't pay very
well and they will take advantage of you if you let them. JVVI highly
recommends Marketing Mania Inc for marketing and non-traditional representation.
The link is below.
Finally, try not to approach people in the industry to get free advice on how to get in the voice over business, it really does annoy them. Remember they are extremely busy tending to their clients and business. First, try to educate yourself using books and content published on the web. Second, practice, practice, practice and practice again! Third, get your demo produced by a professional production company. Only then, are you ready to approach a professional and ask them if they wouldn't mind listening to a demo for a critique or for inclusion on their talent roster.
Are you still interested in pursuing a career in the voice over industry? Now, you can get a “CAREER IN VOICE
OVERS-HOW TO GUIDE” mini-manual emailed to you within 24 hours. It’s a no-fluff guide on exactly how to get into
the voice over industry, step by step. And, it’s packed with “only” the information you need to get started for $14.95.
To place your order, simply enter your email address below and click the payment button.
