So here you are; a talented voiceover artist on the hunt for work. All that stands between you and the job is the small matter of the voiceover casting. So how do you get through it and make the very best impression?
If talent was all that was required for success then there’d be no problem. Financial stability and career growth would fall into your lap and you’d never have to face judgemental family members over Christmas dinner. Unfortunately, as with job interviews and dates, what clicks and what doesn’t can be mysterious.
The ways of the casting director are ineffable, but good communication in the tricky dance between artist, agent, and client can make all the difference. Whilst only you know how to give your best performance, here are some practical tips that might just give you that extra push…
Voiceover Casting: The Voiceover Reel
OK, so there is a limited amount that you can do when a voiceover casting decision is being made based solely on your reel. You will likely not even be aware of it happening. Whilst you are on your sofa, binge-watching Netflix’s latest, a team in Tokyo may be discussing your voice.
But the good news is that there are two simple things you can do to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward.
A strong, varied reel is the best way to impress. It’s vital to keep it up-to-date so that the client will always be hearing your best and most recent work.
Your reel isn’t the only thing you should be keeping up-to-date –make sure your agent has your latest availabilities. They’ll be the ones promoting you for the voiceover casting. The more information they have the easier it will be for them to get you the job!
Hopefully you are already doing all this, in which case – excellent! You can get on with watching the next episode of Orange is the New Black.
Voiceover Casting: The Voiceover Test
So you’ve had the call or email… the client wants to hear more! They’ve asked for a voiceover test.
Usually this is done by the artist on a phone or in a home studio. It may involve reading from a short script, showing your accent skills, or voicing a character.
So what’s the best way to ensure that your test impresses?
Remember that sinking feeling after you’d handed in your English exam paper and realised you hadn’t read the question properly? Just me? Well, without wanting to sound too much like your old teacher, you should definitely read everything before starting. If you aren’t sure of something, feel free to ask!
It’s also worth being aware of the deadline. Sometimes real life clashes with your voiceover casting world. You might get the call while you’re working, running a marathon, or about to propose to your one true love. If at all possible, let your agent know your situation. They may very well be able to work something out for you.
Even if you can drop everything to do the test, you may not have the equipment or a quiet space. But all is not lost! Back in December our excellent Amy McAllister wrote Perks of Being a Voiceover: Fort Edition. There are often workarounds, even if that does mean having to build the occasional fort!
And remember, it’s vital to get your test back for the deadline. Voiceover casting waits for no artist!
Voiceover Casting: The In-Person Casting
The day may come when you get the call to come in for an in-person voiceover casting. This may be paid or unpaid but it’s always a great opportunity to represent yourself.
For all intents and purposes, approach an in-person voiceover casting with the same professionalism you’d apply to a job. As with the voiceover test, your agent should have provided you with all of the information you need. Read up and go in head high!
Whilst your voice is ultimately going to be the factor that gets you the work, these common sense tips may very well boost your chances!
For more like this, read our blog on approaching an agent: London Voiceover Agency: Putting Your Best Foot Forward.