Breathtaking vocals are a given for a successful voice-over venture. But technology has successfully replaced that basic requirement. Nowadays, voice recordings can be programmed and extensively fine-tuned. However, there is still a dire need of traditional voice artists who can sound realistic and speak in a casual conversational tone. Aside from having a pleasant voice, there are some other important factors to consider if you want to become a successful voice over artist:

#1 – Getting to know your voice and Finding your particular Niche

Each voice is different and suitable for non-identical purposes. Gone are the days when the only benchmark was a big, deep baritone which enunciated everything perfectly. Today’s need is a casual voice which sounds conversational, irrespective of the gender. Review your recording and ask around, for the perfect field where your voice fits naturally. Consider this as selecting a genre. Experiment with your skills and pick the perfect voice-over niche for your sound.

#2 – Getting Rid of all Inhibitions

Hesitation can result in an instant downfall for any professional. It is especially important to get rid of umms and ahhs for a mass media artist. You might think that you don’t commit such silly mistakes but these vocal delays are often subconscious. They don’t get noticed until you play it back to yourself. First of all, be confident and comfortable in what you do. Familiarise yourself with the material and practise to get rid of obscure vocal pauses.

#3 – Understanding which tools can help you to achieve the sound you’re looking for

Treat yourself with an utmost professionalism and get advanced tools to add stars to your vocal skills. Working as an artist from home requires the following essential:

PC or laptop with high speed internet – Desktop PCs are great if portability is not required. Laptops are more convenient and a Macbook has a reputation for being more professional. However, mobile devices, tablets and iPads are slowly filling in. For the internet, upload speed is a critical factor.

Microphones – Do not cut corners when buying a mic. Period! 5 bad microphones equal 1 great purchase. Dynamic and condenser mic are the most common types.

– Do not cut corners when buying a mic. Period! 5 bad microphones equal 1 great purchase. Dynamic and condenser mic are the most common types. Software – They are a must for any up-and-coming voice-over artists. They amplify the quality of your voice with touch-ups. Try free software audacity which can also minimize distortion and noise.

– They are a must for any up-and-coming voice-over artists. They amplify the quality of your voice with touch-ups. Try free software audacity which can also minimize distortion and noise. Additional tools – Pre-amp, headset, mic stand, mixing board, sound booth are the necessary items on this list. The industry is nurturing on a daily basis. Take time to research and shop around for the latest tools.

#4 – Learning to control your breathing

Back in the old days, artists were required to take silent breaths to mask audible airflow. Though the times have changed and industry has become more realistic, it is still forbidden to gasp in the middle of a sentence. Mark places where you can safely pause for a breath. Vocal inflections are an issue which is also very common with newcomers. Inflections are the rising tone at the end of a sentence which comes naturally in a professional setup. Review the content and practise a lot, and believe it or not, the audience can hear a smile. Record with a smile for an upbeat script.

#5 – Developing Computer and soft audio engineering skills

Buying top-notch tools will only help you marginally if your technical skills are not good enough. Sound engineering requires a well trained and sensitive ear to balance the waves perfectly. It is best if you learn to play an instrument. Develop an ear for perfection with practice and exposure. Learn the functions of F1-F12 keys and other shortcuts which apply to your system. Your audio enhancing software will also have some shortcut keys, which becomes very useful if you have good computer skills.

#6 – Understanding copy points and how to interpret a script

It may seem obvious, but a review doesn’t only mean to mentally go through the content. You need to audibly read it multiple times. It is especially important when the script is long. Know the requirements of a script and rehearse with emotional inputs. Deliver a standing recording and tailor your voice with the type of recording like editorial content, documentary etc.

#7 – Understanding the basics of Marketing and brand identity

Yes, you need to advertise yourself. The world is replete with “good” voice-over artists who might be better at all the above-mentioned skills. Reachability and exposure are what creates an edge. Plan your career and define goals properly. Hire a digital marketing agency or cut your expenses by hiring interns. Reach out to clients and get noticed.

#8 – How to outsource Secondary Functions to free up your time

Your primary vocation is voice-over. For all the secondary activities, outsource or hire freelancers. The Internet has given way to seamless connectivity and collaboration. Hire freelancers from reliable websites like Fiverr. Such functions include accounting, legal work, SEO etc. You can also work as a freelancer yourself to give voice to other people’s projects.

#9 – How to turn your art into a successful business

You need to realise that voice-over is not just a past time activity for your anymore. It is your job. You are a businessman (woman). And a business must not be undertaken without entrepreneurial skills. Learn the basic rule of Return on Investment or simply the ROI. Research about your competitors and study what works for them. Develop diplomatic skills and the art of bargaining. Follow quality blogs and use automation tools to make your work easier. Think global, plan extensively and execute carefully.

#10 – How to take Good Care of Your Instrument

As a last tip, singers must take care of their voice. Eliminate coffee, alcohol and cigarettes from your routine. Take proper rest with at least an 8-hour sleep and two litres of water intake. Avoid food that makes your mouth dry and raspy. Do a vocal warm up before the performance. Know what is unhealthy for a voice-over artist and adopt best practices to maintain your vocals.

Audio gives life to media. Videos become interesting and movies fascinating, when combined with complimentary audio. The scope of Voice-over is not limited to the narration, song covers or animated movies. It transcends to every domain which needs a vocal touch to their pictures, videos or live performances. Use technology, document your work and find an agent to embark on a journey of successful voice-over career.