By Nate Myers
With recent inflation trends, unaffordability has affected each of us in our day-to-day expenses. More strain on budgets has me (and likely you) looking for additional income.
An Opportunity Not on Your Radar
If you have a good voice and are comfortable speaking in front of a microphone, then voice-over can be a great way to make money. Many different types of voice-over work are available, and with a little effort and training, you can find projects that are a good fit for your skills and interests.
A new voice-over student is using his skills in front of the microphone.
Types of Voice Over Work
Audiobook narration: Audiobooks are a popular form of entertainment, and there is always a demand for narrators. If you have a clear and engaging voice, then audiobook narration could be a good option for you.
Video game voiceover: Video games are a multi-billion dollar industry, requiring voiceover artists to bring the characters to life. If you have a range of voices and can create believable characters, video game voiceover could be a good option.
Animation voiceover: Animation is another popular entertainment form requiring voiceover artists. Animation voiceover could be a good option if you have an expressive voice and can create engaging characters.
Commercial voiceover: Commercials are ubiquitous in our lives and require voiceover artists. Commercial voiceover could be a good way to make money if you have a persuasive and engaging voice.
E-learning narration: E-learning is a growing industry, and there is a demand for voiceover artists to narrate training modules and other educational materials. If you have a clear and authoritative voice, then e-learning narration could be a good option for you.
Podcast narration: Podcasts are a popular way to consume information and entertainment, and many podcasts require voiceover artists to narrate their episodes. If you have a clear and engaging voice, then podcast narration could be a good option for you.
Corporate training narration: Many companies use corporate training videos to educate their employees. These videos often require voiceover artists to narrate the content. Corporate training narration could be a good option if you have a clear and authoritative voice.
On-hold messaging: Many businesses use on-hold messaging to provide callers with information while on hold. On-hold messaging often requires voiceover artists to record the messages. If you have a clear and friendly voice, then on-hold messaging could be a good option for you.
IVR voiceover: Interactive voice response (IVR) systems are used by many businesses to provide callers with automated self-service options. IVR systems often require voiceover artists to record the prompts and messages. IVR voiceover could be a good option if you have a clear and friendly voice.
How to Get Started in Voice Over
1. Develop your voice. Developing your voice is the first step to getting started in voice-over. This means practicing speaking clearly, concisely, and with expression. You can also work on developing different voices and accents. The best way to expedite this part of the process is to sign up for classes at The Voice Shop:
New voice-acting students are learning voice-over techniques and practicing voice training at the Voice Shop.
2. Create a demo reel. A demo reel is a short recording that showcases your voice acting skills. You can create a demo reel by recording yourself reading scripts from different genres.
3. Network with other voice actors. Networking with other voice actors can help you learn about new opportunities and get your foot in the door.
4. Be persistent. It takes time and effort to build a successful voice-over career. Don't get discouraged if you don't land your dream job right away. Keep practicing and networking, and eventually, you will find success.
Tips for Success in Voice Over
Be professional. Voiceover is a business, so being professional in your dealings with clients is important. This means being on time for auditions, meeting deadlines, and being easy to work with.
Be versatile. The more versatile you are, the more likely you will find work. Be willing to try different genres and styles of voice over.
Be promotable. Make it easy for clients to find you by creating a strong online presence. This includes having a website, demo reel, and social media profiles.
Be persistent. It takes time and effort to build a successful voice over career. Don't get discouraged if you don't land your dream job right away. Keep practicing and networking, and eventually, you will.
