4 Methods of Uncovering Voice Over Jobs
Today a voice actor has an assortment of options when finding voice acting work. While some are obvious, others may not be. Let's quickly walk through 4 methods you can use to find voice over jobs.
Talent Agency
The traditional method for finding voice over work is through agencies who work between the client and the voice over artist. Agencies tend to command industry rates in many circumstances; however, you may find less voice over jobs overall as the industry continues to go through changes.
Don't limit yourself to one agent. Having agents in multiple regions and even multiple countries is a great way to increase job offers. If you happen to get the same audition from multiple agents, simply work with the one who first sent it to you.
The goal always is to book as many voice jobs as possible, so if you can do that solely through a talent agency, you could be looking at a pretty good income.
Direct Marketing
Direct booking is a means of finding voice over jobs yourself through direct, personalized marketing and cold calling. This avenue is least enjoyable for many talents because it takes time and effort from what they actually like to do, which is act.
However, as a voice actor, it's essential to recognize that you are also a business, and marketing is a part of any successful business. So pitter-patter and get at 'er. Do the leg work and start searching for ad and marketing agencies to contact. Larger cities often have local production guides that can be a great resource in finding opportunities. At minimal, spend some time searching Google and digging up names to contact.
Just remember, when contacting prospective clients, be mindful of their time. Always show professionalism, kindness, and be sensible about how often you reach out to them. No one wants to hire someone who hounds them relentlessly. It's okay to get a bit creative. In fact, we suggest it as there are many methods to find clients casting voiceover jobs, and you'll be competing with other talents for attention.
Online Voice-Casting
A third method of finding work is via online casting sites. There are many and more pop up all the time. Sites like Voiceovers.com, Voices.com, Voice123.com, and Bodalgo.com are examples of online casting. Each has their merits.
These are sometimes referred to as "Pay to Play" sites because you'll have to pay a membership fee to receive any significant castings.
Costs can vary from site to site, and many have tiered plans which claim to offer more casting opportunities. Approach these sites with caution. Some voice casting websites are more reputable than others, and it falls upon you to research what sites offer voice over work at a rate that is fair to you. You may be okay with taking a lower rate if you're starting voice work, but consider increasing what you charge as your voiceover skills improve. Higher-grade recording equipment and improved technical skills also warrant a price increase. All of these add value to your service.
Online voice-casting sites are an easy way to get started with minimal marketing effort.
Freelancing Websites
The fourth method is one ripe with controversy among fellow voice over actors - freelancing websites. Freelancing websites aggregate various creative (and not so creative) types such as digital artists, web designers, and copywriters, then attract would-be buyers to that platform. It sounds like a win-win situation, but these services cater to the lowest common denominator, i.e., low pay.
Potential buyers are typically small businesses looking for something cheap or haven't an understanding how to hire a professional talent. You will spend a lot of time responding to people who fail to read your job offerings and rate structures. This means less time for more reliable clients.
The site itself takes a sizeable percentage of your earnings. However, they cost nothing to join, so there's no financial investment. It is possible to command higher rates on these platforms, but it will take time and is a challenge. You must decide if you're up for it but there's little harm in trying.
Regardless of how you uncover voice over work, make sure you consistently improve your voice over skills to increase your value. Attending a voiceover workshop, reading scripts daily, or taking an improv class are all great ways to enhance your performances while adding value through experience. (hint: Use of our practice scripts) In the end, marketing gets you the client, but your skills keeps them coming back.
Now, get out there and start digging up clients!