How to become a voice actor in 4 steps

To help you learn how to become a voice actor, we’ve sorted out the initial and necessary steps into just 4 main points. But in addition to these, it also needs to be highlighted that just like any career, becoming a voice actor also starts with developing the right mindset, setting the right expectations, and learning about the right tools and equipment. So, if you’re still interested in learning how to become a voice actor – here are the four key steps to get started today!

LEARN HOW TO START A VOICE OVER BUSINESS

How to become a voice actor in 4 steps

1. Learn about the VO industry

Before diving into voice acting, it’s important to prepare yourself to first learn about the voice over industry. What’s involved in becoming a voice actor? What is the difference between voice over and voice acting? How are voice overs made? What are the different genres? What do you need to know about voice over rates? Where will you be able to find voice over jobs? You’ll find it helpful to consult a voice over guide for this type of research.

2. Become a VO entrepreneur

Becoming a voice actor is essentially becoming a business owner or an entrepreneur. That’s because voice acting professionally is different from voice acting as a hobby.  Consequently, it might be helpful to make a business plan to focus on how you can establish and grow your voice over business as well as stay compliant with any legal requirements. Identifying your vocal brand will also help you when creating a marketing strategy.

3. Create a recording environment

These days, the voice over and creative industry largely operates online. So learning how to become a voice actor also means learning how to set up your own recording studio. While you can use an external studio, setting up your own, usually at home – enables you to produce top-quality audio all the time, anytime. This makes it easier to submit voice over auditions, complete projects with a tight schedule, and confidently commit to projects.

4. Set up an online presence

Strategic marketing, SEO, and social media are vital, as are your online voice acting profile and samples. This is like a resume, so it needs to be top-quality! Then, the next step is to create winning auditions. You might have to audition for different projects before finding your niche, and be prepared to submit anything from 50 to 200 (conservatively speaking) auditions before landing a job. Download our voice over audition checklist for free. 

How to become a voice actor: tools for success

Like any industry, there are also certain equipment and tools that can make day-to-day processes easier and more effective. For example, using a Customer Relationship Manager (CRM) is a great way to organize your business. As a result, you can keep track of past projects and clients while building professional relationships with them. Remember, figuring out how to become a voice actor is just the first step. Keeping up with voice over trends, online voice over platform education, and tips from pros can help to strengthen the foundation of your voice over career.

LEARN HOW TO PRACTICE VOICE ACTING

FAQ

  1. Research the voice over industry as well as what’s involved in becoming a voice actor, from training to equipment.
  2. Start and grow your voice over business with the right tools, a unique brand, and a marketing strategy.
  3. Invest in a home recording studio to be able to record top-quality audio for any project at any time.
  4. Set yourself up for online success with a profile and samples, and be prepared to audition!

Yes. It’s entirely possible, however, it takes skillfull management of your voice over business, a keen eye for opportunities, and good decision making. In the same vein, sheer luck and talent alone won’t be enough, but certainly help.

A voice actor salary can be anywhere from $13,500 to $199,000, with most salaries ranging from $23,000 to $111,500. The large gap depends on a lot of factors including experience, genre specialization, and life situation.

Nowadays, a voice over business (likely) starts in your own home with a home recording studio, and is marketed online. Check out a list of online casting platform options here.

"The first step to building a thriving voice acting business is making sure you’re talented and well trained...The next ... is creating a brand that represents your talent and helps you stand out.

– Celia Siegel Management

LEARN MORE IN OUR FREE VOICE OVER GUIDE!