How to Find More Work as a Voice Actor: Practical Tips and Strategies
Hello, fellow voice actors! Today, we're diving into how you can find more work. Let's jump right in and explore some practical tips and strategies to boost your voice acting career.
Start with Your Own Backyard
One of the best places to find work is right in your own backyard. Reach out to friends and family and let them know about your services. Be specific about how you can help them and their businesses. For instance:
Benefit Videos: Does your friend's company need a voice for their employee benefits videos?
Compliance Videos: Can you help with voiceovers for compliance training videos?
Many people don't know how to use your services, so give them clear examples. Your goal is to make them think outside the box about how a voice actor can add value.
Develop Your Elevator Pitch
When networking locally, whether at the Chamber of Commerce or your local library, having a solid elevator pitch is crucial. Go beyond just saying you're a voice actor. Explain specific services you offer, like voicemail greetings or commercial videos. Tailor your pitch to make it relatable and understandable.
Utilize Local Resources
Consider local businesses and organizations that might need your services. Here are some ideas:
Voicemail Greetings: Many small businesses could use a professional voice for their phone systems.
Local Agents: Talent agents in your area might have opportunities, even if they don’t specialize in voice work. Building relationships with them can open doors.
Past Contacts Are Gold: Leverage your previous professional connections. If you’ve worked in other industries, reach out to former colleagues. For example, if you used to work in healthcare, contact the HR or marketing departments at your old hospital and let them know about your voiceover services.
Value Your Work Appropriately
Always charge what the job is worth, not based on your experience level. If the project is valuable, your rate should reflect that. You are worth it, and it's important to remember that.
Dive Into Online Casting
Online casting platforms are another great way to find work. Here are some platforms to consider:
Voice123: This platform is fantastic for those who have some experience and are looking to take their career to the next level. There are specific strategies to maximize your success here.
CastVoices.com: A newer platform with growing opportunities. Both free and paid memberships are available.
Voquent: This free platform rewards interaction and detailed profiles.
VoicesUS: Another platform where you can find jobs, though it requires a membership.
Bodalgo: A global platform managed by Armin Herstter, offering a range of opportunities.
LinkedIn – A Powerful Tool
LinkedIn is invaluable for finding voice work. Use it to connect with commercial producers, marketing managers, and other decision-makers. There are many resources and courses available to help you optimize your LinkedIn presence, such as Tracy Lindley's LinkedIn course.
Practice and Improve
If you’re not ready to dive into online casting, focus on practice. Join group workouts, find practice scripts on websites like Voice Actor Websites and Edge Studio, and work with a buddy to hone your skills.
Join Voice Over Workouts
Voice over workouts are a great way to practice and network. Consider joining VO Heaven, where you can practice with others in the industry. It's a fantastic community that provides support and feedback
Finding more work as a voice actor requires a mix of networking, leveraging past connections, utilizing online platforms, and continuously improving your skills. By following these tips and putting yourself out there, you’ll be well on your way to growing your voice acting career.
Here's to your success! Let's be awesome together.
Want free stuff? Browse our site for free resources, episode series, and sign up for our newsletter to be in-the-know ahead of each episode.
Subscribe to our YouTube webcast! And don’t forget to click the bell for notifications about upcoming episodes.
Listen to our podcast on Spotify! Be sure to click “follow”.
Working Pro? Mingle with Us! Join our VO Secret Society.