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Before you make a voicover demo, as with any other skill, be sure and practice, practice, practice. The current marketplace for voiceover talent is very competitive, and is occasionally overshadowed by the number of famous voices given first choice. Take heart however, there are great opportunities in radio and regional television advertising. If you dream about working as a voiceover actor, then make a demo and go for it, but don't quit your day job right away.

Since you have only once to make a first impression, you want to locate a recording studio that will offer you the time and service that you need. You will need rehearsal time, and a producer besides the engineer to help you focus your material. An appropriate sound track is a critical part of your final demo, and that should be part of the deal you make with that studio. They will do what they call 'sweeten' your voiceover material with fabulous musical cues so that it sounds very professional.

Seeking talent ordered up by the advertising vendor, a producer will quickly see if he needs you, or not, and it's not usually negotiable. As with any other job application, it's very important to present yourself with confidence. You should seek out a recording studio that is recommended by someone, or one whose reputation is well known.

Primarily a voiceover actor needs to speak clearly, and with a style that is natural and easily maintained. The demo material should be spoken artfully, but not exaggerated, in whatever the primary language of the person recording. Producers and directors most often prefer voice actors to speak their primary language, rather than seek out someone faking it. If you think you want to do narrative voiceovers such as books on CD, you will have to maintain a strong voice for a long period of time, rather like an athlete.

To begin with, the internet is a great resource for new voice talent. Google the term voiceover to find a bunch of agency websites with demos of the talent they represent. Listen to them over and over again, and note the material used as well as the gender of the talent. There's more than one way to vocally animate any message. Read outloud to yourself,and find someone to read opposite you to practice multiple voiceover ads. In the final analysis, a director will tell you what he needs from you if you're hired. Although many directors will accept some input from the talent.

The most ideal scenario would be if you can take classes in addition to reading about voiceovers, as well as listening to demos online. Together, these will increase your learning curve, and you'll be ready to do your demo a lot sooner.

Remember the first 7-10 seconds is all that a producer will need to make up their mind, so put your best vocal efforts right up front. Make sure the sound track behind you is properly adjusted so as not to drown you out. The demo should not be longer than 2-3 minutes at most.

If you can sing or yodel, or speak in tongues, put that information on your resume, the one that should accompany your MP3 file on CD. You have your first demo. Now you need to market yourself. Good luck.

Learn more about this author, Jacquie Schmall.
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