How to audition for voice acting jobs
Voice acting auditions are the gateway to becoming a professional voice actor. They showcase your skills, versatility, and professionalism—serving as your resume for potential clients. Whether you’re new and wondering how to be a voice actor or already have experience, learning how to audition for voice acting is the key to landing voice over jobs.
What are voice acting auditions?
A voice acting audition is a recording of a voice actor reading a sample script for a project. During casting calls for voice acting, clients use these auditions to find the best voice for their project.
To succeed, voice actors must deliver a clear, authentic performance that matches the tone of the script. The recorded voice over audition is then submitted online for the client’s review.
At Voice123, we help thousands of voice actors find voice acting auditions online and connect with clients worldwide.
Check out our free checklist of 10 tips for successful voice over auditions.
How to audition for voice acting
Step 1: Read the brief carefully
Every audition starts with a project description or “brief.” This outlines exactly what the client wants. Pay attention to:
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The tone (professional, playful, serious, conversational).
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The audience (children, corporate professionals, gamers, learners).
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Any character notes (age, accent, personality traits).
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Technical details like file format, length, and submission deadlines.
Skipping these details is one of the top reasons voice actor auditions are rejected. Clients want someone who can follow directions as much as they want a great voice.
Step 2: Warm up your voice
Daily vocal exercises can improve clarity, prevent strain, and expand your range. Examples include:
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Lip trills and humming to loosen vocal cords.
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Tongue twisters to sharpen articulation.
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Breathing exercises to build control and stamina.
Warming up helps ensure that your voice acting auditions sound polished and professional from the very first word.
Step 3: Test your equipment
Great audio quality is crucial to a great voice over audition. Make sure you have:
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A professional microphone (USB mics are fine for beginners, but XLR mics with an interface are preferred).
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A quiet, soundproofed space—even a closet with clothes can work as a makeshift booth.
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Editing software (like Audacity, Adobe Audition, or Reaper) to remove clicks, breaths, and background noise.
Pro tip: Always record a 5-second test before a full audition to help you catch issues before wasting time on a full read.
Step 4: Perform with confidence
Confidence shines through audio. Get into character and bring the words to life by:
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Adjusting pitch, pacing, and volume.
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Adding emotional depth when the script calls for it.
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Reading like you’re speaking to one person, not an audience.
Clients want authenticity. Even in commercial voice actor auditions, they often look for a “real person” sound instead of an announcer tone.
Step 5: Edit and submit your audition
Once recorded, clean up your audition:
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Remove background noise, clicks, or mouth sounds.
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Normalize volume for consistent playback.
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Save files in the required format (often MP3 or WAV).
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Double-check file labeling (e.g., “Firstname_Lastname_ProjectName.mp3”).
Submitting polished, professional files on time is one of the best ways to impress clients—even before they hear your voice.
Create top-quality audio with help from experts!
10 Tips for successful voice acting auditions
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Understand the Role – Study scripts carefully and align your read with the intended character or brand voice.
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Practice Daily – Consistency builds range, stamina, and style.
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Use Professional Equipment – Better sound equals higher chances of booking.
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Minimize Background Noise – Clients don’t want distractions in their auditions.
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Bring Your Own Style – Add a personal touch that makes your audition memorable.
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Follow Instructions Exactly – Missing details = instant rejection.
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Keep Editing Minimal – Let clients hear your natural voice.
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Experiment with Variations – Showcase range with multiple takes if allowed.
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Stay Professional – Clear communication and punctuality go a long way.
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Never Stop Learning – Workshops, classes, and coaching keep you competitive.
Advice from pros on auditions for voice acting
Need advice on how to get auditions for voice acting? We’ve got all the insights you need with interviews from two seasoned and talented voice actors – Courtney Greer and Gwendolyn Carter. Greer and Carter have 13 years of combined professional experience getting booked for gigs through booming voice acting auditions. As you listen to their journeys, note their tips and suggestions to improve your voice acting auditions.
Courtney’s been a member since Aug 2, 2013, and has been a professional voice actor for nine years.
Gwendolyn’s been a member since Nov 11, 2018 and has been a professional voice actor for 4 years.
Conclusion
Mastering how to audition for voice acting jobs is about preparation, performance, and professionalism. Whether you’re just starting your journey in becoming a voice actor or you’re experienced and want to land more voice acting auditions online, these tips will help you succeed.
At Voice123, we make it easier for voice actors to find real casting calls for voice acting and book work. Sign up for a membership and get invited directly to voice over projects and boost your voice acting career!
FAQs
To get into voice acting, train your voice, record practice scripts, and create a professional sample playlist that showcases your range and tone. You can also join online casting platforms like Voice123 to help you access voice acting auditions and connect with clients directly.
Breaking into voice acting takes persistence, but it’s not impossible. With consistent auditions, training, and networking, many beginners turn auditions into booked jobs.
Yes, you can get a voice acting job with no experience by starting with smaller gigs, finding a niche, practicing regularly, and creating samples to submit for voice acting auditions.
To get hired on Voice123, complete your profile with professional samples, write a bio that includes your voice acting skills, and consistently apply to voice over auditions that match your skill set. Clear communication and fast response times also help build client trust and increase bookings.
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