By Nate Myers
Line items and Excel sheets. Every night, when you close your eyes, you see cells and rows with VLOOKUPs and formulas. Sound familiar?
If you're looking for a career change, voice-over can be a lucrative path to take. Just like anything in life, there are pros and cons. So, let's break them down so you can make the right call.
Oh, and if you want to sign up for voice over classes…We've got you covered ;)
Yes, voiceover can be a viable career path, even with a non-creative work history, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. It requires dedication and effort.
Pros:
Flexibility: Voiceover work often allows for a flexible schedule, which can be appealing if you want more control over your time.
Creativity: You can express yourself creatively through different scripts and characters.
Demand: The demand for voiceover artists is growing in various industries, from commercials and audiobooks to e-learning and video games.
Low entry barrier: Compared to other creative fields, you don't need a degree or certification to establish reputability.
Cons:
Competition: The voiceover (VO) industry is competitive; standing out and landing consistent work can be challenging.
Unpredictable income: Especially at the beginning, income can be inconsistent and may require supplementing with other work.
Investment: Building a home studio requires some initial investment in equipment and software.
Voice acting is a skill that takes practice and refining. Taking voice acting lessons with the Voice Shop (online or in-person) is the best way to start.
Okay, that all makes sense. The real question is: "How long will it be until I start making money for VO work?"
Voiceover is considered a creative field, and income can sometimes be inconsistent initially. The time it takes to start earning money can vary greatly depending on several factors:
Your existing skills and experience: If you already have strong acting, vocal, and technical skills, you may be able to find work sooner.
The amount of effort and investment you put in: Building a solid portfolio, actively marketing yourself, and networking are crucial for success.
The type of voiceover work you want: Some areas, like explainer videos, may offer quicker entry compared to commercials or audiobooks.
Want some inspiration? Listen to Alison Pentecost, a professional scientist who changed career paths to become a successful voice-over artist.
Here are some steps to get started in voiceover:
Assess your voice: Record yourself reading and listen back to identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Develop your skills: Take voice acting workshops or work with a voice coach to refine your technique. Remember how we said we've got you covered? Check out our Classes for Beginners page to start on the right path. We also offer free consultations if that helps identify the best path for you!
Build a demo reel: Create recordings showcasing your voice in different styles and tones.
Build your online presence: Create a website or profile to showcase your work and attract clients.
Network and market yourself: Attend industry events, connect with other voice actors, and actively apply for auditions.
Remember, starting any new career takes time and dedication. While some voice actors find success quickly, others may need to build their skills and experience over a longer period.
Don't let your background hold you back if you're passionate about voiceover. Weigh the pros and cons, do your research, and be prepared to invest time and effort into building your new career.
