5 Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Voiceover

In sifting through the google blog search as well as search.twitter.com I realized that there is not much being said about the voiceover industry. I found this interesting as there are so many of us out there. It is my assumption that many of the VO talents out there have been in the industry for some time now and are firmly planted in their communities and recording studio's rolodex. Regardless (not irregardless, like so many people like to say) I would like to fill a void on the internet to help those of you looking to hire voice talent or just get more out of this important piece of your marketing mix. From time to time, I hope I am the right voice for your project, but in general I want you to make the right decision every time so that you continue to produce top quality marketing spots.

As we prepare to replace the 2009 calendars, I present 5 tips for getting the most out of your voiceover.

1. Pay attention to the production quality. In this time of home studios quality can be sacrificed. Some jobs just can't be recorded from a home studio to give you the quality you deserve. In instances like this it is worth it to bring in a studio (and maybe a producer). Home studios are great for online, podcasts and training videos. Think about incorporating a studio for commercial work.

2. Find an actor with whom you are comfortable working. Chemistry is a huge part of getting the final product right. Many times talent is hired on their voice alone and the chemistry is not there in the recording. That lack of chemistry will show through to your audience more than not having the perfect voice to your ears.

3. Consider your competition. By this I don't necessarily mean your product or service's competitor (but, that is important too). What I mean here is think about what else your audience will hear around your marketing. If it is a radio commercial, spend time listening to the station and take note of the types of voices you hear in ads. Will your message stand out or blend in? Make sure it stands out by choosing a voice that is unique to the audience.

4. Make sure it sounds natural. Have you listened to other voiceovers and you can picture the actors sitting in a studio reading their scripts? Chances are most people listening are visualizing the same thing. Be willing to alter your script once you hear it read to make it more conversational. Your discerning ear in the studio and your willingness to change some less important copy could make your finished product much more effective.

5. Think about continuity. I don't just say this for the sake of repeat business for your voiceover. Where this really is important is in the building of your brand. When you hire a professional voiceover you are actually hiring the voice of your brand. You want your marketing to stand out. To stand out you need a unique and identifiable voice. Think longer term than just your current project. Is this the voice you want for your brand for the foreseeable future?

Best of luck to you in 2010. If you are in need of a new voice talent, please consider me. My commercial and narrative demos can be found at www.sergetraylor.com.

Thanks,

Serge