Starting a career in voiceovers can be an exciting prospect. For those with a knack for acting, strong vocal skills, and lots of charm and personality, there’s no reason they can’t make it in the industry working on phone greetings, eLearning, commercials, and more. Of course, raw talent is only the beginning when it comes to landing jobs. Here are a few things aspiring voiceover actors will want to do to jumpstart their way into the world of voiceovers.

Work on Acting Skills

Voiceovers are really a type of acting. Taking basic acting classes, participating in stage plays and student films, and simply making videos on social media are all great ways for prospective voice actors to gauge themselves as actors and will help them when it comes time to get into voiceovers.

Build a Demo Reel

When trying to land a job, a strong demo reel is the equivalent of a resume. Examples of voice work will go a long way because, for employers, hearing is believing. Voice actors should also have multiple reels that showcase different skills. Niches include narration for commercials, cartoon characters, phone greetings, and vocal sound effects.

Audition, Audition, Audition

There can be no way to say it too often: voice actors should audition as often as possible. Finding every opportunity to have the chance to work on productions that result in a final product is critical. No project is too small because not only will they be perfecting their skills and adding content to their reels – voice actors will also be networking in the voiceover community.

Networking

As mentioned, networking will be key to building voiceover careers. While this is a good strategy for any business, it’s especially true in a relatively small community like the professional voiceover player circles. Those seeking success in the field should be sure to help connect others as much as they help connect themselves.

Set Up a Home Studio

Voice actors can’t always count on productions to be able to work around their schedules. They also can’t always expect their acting classes to give them studio time to build a demo reel. That’s why it’s essential for them to have their own home studio. To set one up, all that’s needed is a closet, some blankets to absorb unwanted sounds, and a good microphone.

With these five steps, voice actors can be on their way to getting voiceover careers off the ground!