Those of us who are voice over artists frequently get asked, “How do you get started in voice over? Just google it. Some good folks and some slimy websites will answer that question for you. The good folks give an honest answer. the slimy ones make it sound really easy. Indeed, I recently met with a friend who was also interested in the voice over industry. And yes, she wanted to know how to do it.

Here’s a quick recap of my conversation.

Me: Why are you interested in voice over?

Friend: My friends tell me my voice sounds nice on the phone and I should get in to voice acting.

Me: Do you want to?

Friend: Yeah, kinda. I think it might be fun. (RED FLAGS  here ‘ yeah, kinda”…’might be fun’)

Me: Ok. Have you done any research?

Friend: No, I’m talking to you. So this is my first research.

Me. Do you have an idea about the monetary investment it might take?

Friend:  I’m guessing it might be maybe $1000-$2000.  But I don’t know.

Me:  Do you have an acting background?

Friend:  NO. Not at all.

Me:  Did you know that there are lots of ways a person can be a voiceover artist.

Friends: What do you mean? I was just thinking commercials, like TV or radio.

Me:  Ok. So here’s some basics.  You should do A LOT of research. Blogs, FB groups, books. podcasts. Then if you’re still interested, you should think about what genre you might like – yes, commericials, but also audio books, elearning, explainer videos, narration, promos, animation… then you’ll need to find a coach. I can recommend several. You’ll need the right equipment and learn some editing software. Then when your coach tells you you’re ready, he or she will tell you it’s time to get a demo – through the coach or a separate producer.  You could be at this for several months before that point.  Some people it can take over a year. My personal investment, including coaching, demos, voice conferences, equipment, has been… (and here I tell her my actual investment to date…her eyes get really, really big).

Friend: Wow. I didn’t realize it was all that.

Me: You have to be very passionate about your desire to be a successful voice over. And have the mindset to stay the course – it’s a marathon, a journey.  Are you still interested?

Friend.  Not really. No. I thought I could just buy a microphone and start auditioning.

Folks, there are no shortcuts.Being a successful voice over artist takes training, more training, demos, equipment, marketing, tenacity, and stick to it-ness. Need a little more guidance? Conact me. I’m happy to talk.