For any new voiceover talent who may struggle with confidence, or for those who may be somewhat apprehensive about getting started, I can relate. What helped me overcome those obstacles are two VO niches: Messages on Hold (MOH) and Interactive Voice Response (IVR).
When I began my VO journey over nine years ago, I didn’t start out on the same path as most voice actors commonly do, which is typically in the commercial and narration genres. Though I was excited and passionate about entering into those genres of VO, I didn’t possess the confidence that I needed to step into that arena at that time. I certainly had the techniques, but the confidence just wasn’t there yet, so, I began thinking about how I could take baby steps forward. That’s when MOH and IVR came to mind.
During my practice and training I had come across some fun MOH and IVR scripts. I thought to myself, “This is a genre that I enjoy, and it doesn’t intimidate me as much as commercials and narrations. Why not give it a go and get a demo produced for this genre?” So that’s what I did. I discussed it with my coach/mentor and we began working towards that goal.
I suppose that I was less intimated with this particular genre, as the scripts are usually much shorter in comparison to other VO genres, and though they do have their own set of techniques, these techniques tend to be less complex than those of other VO genres. The expectations and direction are usually more straightforward. To sum it up: Short and Sweet! Far less detail!
The Messages on Hold and IVR genres had become my main focus. I started to feel good about it, confident even, and building my confidence was exactly what I needed at the time. Even though I was mainly focused on this particular genre, I still continued to practice with commercial and narration scripts along the way, allowing myself to have fun and enjoy them.
The day had finally come: my very first voiceover demo had finally been completed! Sample tracks of me performing IVR prompts and phone hold messages. I was so proud to hear myself on these professionally produced tracks. That only added to my confidence.
Though a bit nervous, I was excited to get out into the world of VO and offer up my services. I will never forget how I landed my very first client: after doing research on several companies, I finally got brave enough to pick up the phone (old school style) and call a Message on Hold company. I introduced myself, and inquired about submitting my demo, to be possibly considered as one of their future roster talents. They welcomed my inquiry and asked me to submit my demo. Not long after, I was invited to become one of their roster talents. I couldn’t believe that someone actually wanted to pay me to use my voice. It was a dream come true. I began receiving assignments regularly, and I was having a ball doing what I truly enjoyed.
After some months of working in this area, and while making progress and acquiring new clients, I decided that I was ready to step my game up. Suddenly commercials and narrations didn’t feel as intimidating. If I could put myself out there for MOH & IVR work, I certainly could do the same for commercials and narrations. I knew that there were clients out there who could use my voice and services in these genres as well.
For those who are just starting out, but may be apprehensive, lack confidence, or just wish to start at a slower pace; I highly recommend and encourage you to try MOH & IVR. Beginning my career with this genre allowed me to take the time that I needed in order to build my confidence and self-esteem. It also allowed me to continue to practice and hone my skills in other genres of VO, that I wasn’t quite ready to fully dive in on, but to simultaneously begin my career as a voice actor, while learning and acquiring the skills needed in order to become a successful entrepreneur.
Before I got started in voiceover I was quite introverted, but I also knew that there was another side of me that needed to get out and be expressed. Now, I still consider myself to be a full-time introvert, but now I’m also a part-time extrovert.
After many years of being in this industry, things such as public speaking, and being more outspoken at times come a lot more easily. I’m no longer afraid to allow myself to create, or even to fail. In failure, you receive knowledge, wisdom, and progress in return. Whenever I reflect on the progress that I’ve made, I always have to think back to the very beginning, and give gratitude to the genre that started it all for me…Messages on Hold and IVR.
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