How to Become a Voiceover Artist

Becoming a successful voiceover artist requires two things: a great voice and tenacity. There's a lot of work to be had but there's also a lot of competition. By keeping at it, honing your skills, and networking, you can secure a spot in the marketplace.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Learn about the four primary voiceover categories: commercials, narrations, characterizations and imaging. Determine your strength and focus.
2. Purchase a microphone. Use a computer to record and playback for practice and critique. Remember that most people do not like the sound of their own voice. Focus on the method or interpretation of the material rather than how the voice sounds on playback.
3. Get a demo produced and duplicated to CD. Contact professional studios for information. Expect to pay $350 to $500. Keep in mind that the demo is the "calling card" and most likely the first impression.
4. Call talent agencies and companies that use voiceover talent, like video production houses, smaller ad agencies, radio stations, and get the name of a contact person. Distribute the demo CD. Follow up with the contact person in a week.
5. Consider signing with a talent agency or joining an organization of voice talent. Expect to pay a membership fee or a commission.
6. Following an assignment, ask for a finished copy of the spot. Collect these on a sample reel or CD to help get more work in the future.
7. Organize your business to run professionally. Create simple business cards, contracts and order forms. Purchase bookkeeping software. Establish the business as a proprietorship or a corporation.