As a voice over actor, understand that you are part of a huge and competitive industry full of strong voice over talents. This means there’s a lot of you competing for the same jobs. You have to work extra hard to book the best voice over jobs and gigs. One true thing about being a voice over talent is that you have to learn to market yourself. It means being open to utilising various marketing opportunities. Here are some to consider:
1. Professional website – Setting up your own professional website is highly recommended, especially with the way that the Internet has changed the voice over industry. Many voice over opportunities are available online, and increasing your visibility online increases the chances that a potential client can find you. Think of a professional website as your digital office, where potential clients can access the info and details that they need—your contact info, business description, and the best samples of your voice over demos. Hire a professional to do your website and include a logo to give you that professional edge. Keep it clean, simple, informative, and easy to navigate. Think of it as a worthwhile investment for your job.
2. Personal blog – If you’re also good at and enjoy writing, why not set up a personal blog featuring your voice over talent? A personal blog works like a professional website in helping increase your visibility in the web. It lets people know who you are and what you do. If you stick to a unique, interesting tone and a sense of accessibility, you can draw a following and eventually, attract potential clients. Maintain a good relationship with your loyal readers because they can also be sources of leads on potential clients.
3. Business cards – Business cards are still relevant even in the Internet Age. It’s the simplest and easiest way to market yourself as a voice over talent. Keep it clean, simple, and succinct. Make it stand out by including your own business logo.
4. Demo reels – Make a list of production houses, studios, and businesses looking for voice over talents. You can submit your demo reel in many ways. First, you can turn your demo reel into mp3 format and submit to potential clients by e-mail. Introduce yourself in the e-mail and include your website or blog, and contact details. Second, you can burn your demo reel onto a CD or copy it to a USB and submit to potential clients by post. Include a note introducing yourself and include your business card.
5. Business events and social media groups – Join social media groups geared towards the voice over business, or better yet, start one yourself. Attend related business events and seminars. Remember to always bring your business cards with you. You’ll never know when you might meet potential clients.
Being a voice over talent, you don’t need to be told that your voice is an asset. Banking on your talent shouldn’t stop there. To have a successful career as a voice over talent, you have to successfully utilise marketing opportunities as well.
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