Let’s face it, we have one of the best jobs in the world. As a voice-over artist, we get to work from home, make our own schedules, be creative, and have fun while we do it. It’s a dream job!
The catch is that finding the work for this dream job is its own challenge. Especially when you’re just getting started, it can be daunting trying to find someone that will pay you for doing what you love. For this reason, it’s absolutely critical to think of each and every voice-over opportunity as a job interview.
As part of my job here at Such A Voice, I answer a lot of emails and chat messages from folks who want to get into voice-over. Most of the time, people ask good questions and just want to know how to get started. They need a coach, they want to record a demo, or they want guidance on how to get more work. I’m amazed, however, at how many people are looking for work and going about it the wrong way. For this reason, I wanted to share with you a couple of tips that will help you improve your chances of landing your next gig.
First and foremost, do your research. Be sure you know who you’re talking to, and what they do, far in advance of actually reaching out to offer your services as a voice talent. The individualized approach that research affords allows you to be more than just a business card on a cork board. Researching a prospective client will also set you up for success because you’ll have a stronger idea of what they’re looking for.
Remember that you are asking for work. As I mentioned before, you need to treat each voice-over opportunity as a job interview. Be nice, be smart, and include exactly what someone needs in order to decide if they should hire you and, if they like what they hear, how to get in contact. You don’t have to wear a suit or nice dress. There is no handshake or small talk to make. But you still need to present yourself as a professional and treat any possible employer with courtesy and respect.
Keep it concise. This morning, I got a message with a subject that simply read “gimme wrk.” When I opened this email, it was blank. Alternatively, I get the life story. These are often phone calls in which someone tells me all about why I should hire them for “the job” and talks over me for two minutes before I finally get to tell them that I’m a voice-over coach and not an agent. Most agents will not be interested in listening to someone cold-call and hype themselves up for two minutes. So, when you’re reaching out to a prospective client, send them an email with your name, your website, your demo, your contact info and a very brief note about why you’d like to work with/for them. Leave the testimonials on your website and check in on the lead via phone call in a few days.
Finally, maintain professionalism. I’m sure that your friends, family and coworkers have told you what a nice voice you have. And that’s great! That’s what gets many of us into this business and that’s so important. But talent agencies want to know what you’ve done professionally and they expect you to act like you’ve been here before. Don’t tell them about how you’re dreaming of moving to Los Angeles to be the next lead voice for Pixar when you’re asking to be the voice of Joe’s Rental Cars in Boise, Idaho. Making a prospective client feel like they’re just a stepping stone is never going to lead to a job. Do your best to make each and every client feel like your top priority, because they are. Your job as a voice talent isn’t just to share your voice, it’s to represent yourself, and your clients, as a brand.
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Max Pogacar is a voice-over artist and talented musician. Born and raised in Vermont as the son of a popular radio DJ, Max has always felt at home behind the mic. Working with Such A Voice to take his passion for performance from the stage to the studio, Max has found true success in the world of voice-over.
