by Jacquie Schmall

Created on: April 24, 2008   Last Updated: June 22, 2010

A demo reel is simply a CD or DVD record of your job history. It is mostly associated with the entertainment business, and is a primary tool used for demonstrating your skills as a performer. Producers and casting directors rely on them to be able to review many performers without the need to gather them all in one location. They are used to make the selection process faster, more accurate, and to better serve both the performer and those searching to hire a specific talent.

Like any other resume, the CD or DVD demo reel should be updated from time to time. A demo reel is a presentation of the work you have already accomplished. If it is done well, it can assure you of getting your next employer to hire you based on what they see in the demo reel. The demo reel diminishes the need to travel to a location along with hundreds of others to audition. If your demo reel serves you best, you will be hired on the basis of that material without having to compete with a lot of other performers every single time.

In these technology driven times, you really need a demo reel of your skill at doing whatever it is you do over and above a regular written resume. It's likely most helpful in a business that is all about graphics, film production, video commercials, advertising and other work that entails images and drawing. It may also serve to help you get a job in the real estate business. The trick is to know what you have done, that is also what you want to do in the future. If you want to change to a new job emphasis then you have to rethink how to update your demo reel as well as your written resume.

It's easier today than ever before to create a demo reel and have it recast and dubbed professionally. If you've done professional work in commercials or film, you should have a copy of the material or at least a clip of it. You might want to confirm the sequence of what you record and present, so that the most impressive of what you do is at the beginning. The first ten seconds is always the best way to grab the attention of someone reviewing your work. I've quoted this before, "you have only once to create a first impression." Make it a great impression!

A voice actor should create a demo reel that is not much longer than two to three minutes. There should be a narrative sample that is as good as you have to offer. The accents and musical stuff can come later. In the adult world, producers are most often looking for a clear strong voice with good enunciation. As for children who want to do voice acting, there is a lot more opportunity today than ever. They just have to be themselves.

So now you have a demo reel. Good luck in getting your next best job!

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