Finding Voice Over Talent On The Web: 5 Easy Steps

Posted on March 7th, 2010 March 7th, 2010 by Arlene Rakes
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The sheer number of voice actors vying for jobs today can be a little overwhelming when you’re looking for the one perfect candidate to represent your project. Take your search online can be a great way to streamline the process of finding the right voice actor for the job.

The internet offers many resource and options for putting together your multimedia project. You can locate scripts from a database, or create a script of your own and find just the right tone and theme by reviewing samples of other companies in a few clicks. The web allows you to view artist portfolios and samples with ease; many professionals upload clips of previous projects as samples which saves you time during your hiring process, and can help you narrow down your search. From reviewing resumes to conducting online interviews, the internet is making the voice over talent search much easier and effective.

The Internet is easily the most useful and extensive resource at your disposal during the hiring process, but the time you spend searching for voice talent online may amount to nothing if you don’t have a good idea of what you’re looking for and how to find it. Here are five simple pointers that will go a long way towards making your time spent on the Internet more effective and valuable.

1. After you you initially contact a potential hire, ask for a sample of their work. If the person in question is the true professional they claim to be, they will have .mpeg samples on hand to send to you, or will direct you to a site where you can heir their work. This first step goes a long way towards weeding out candidates who aren’t serious about getting the job.

2. Ask potential hires for a resume. Any serious voice actor or actress should be able to provide a formal resume, complete with his or her employment history and references. Speaking of references, they’re there for a reason; you should make sure to contact two or more of the past employers listed in order to get a balanced assessment of the performance you can expect from a potential hire.

3. Ask the candidate for a preferred rate. You should make sure you understand how much the actor would like to be paid, and when. Actors may want to be compensated either per hour or per project, and though some do not mind being compensated on delivery, others may want a portion up front.

4. Conduct a telephone interview. Telephone interviews are best for any talent you may not have the opportunity to meet with in person. Telephone interviews can touch upon previous work, a brief script reading, and to gauge the confidence level of your candidate.

5. Ask if they can provide all services digitally. Some professionals have the equipment and skills to record the voice over in their home studio, convert it into a media file for review, and allow you to download it directly from the web. Find out what your options are, and plan accordingly to save on mailing fees, travel expenses, and other costs typically incurred for projects of this scope.

About the Author: Terry Daniel is a Professional Voice Over Actor from Minneapolis, MN and Has Been Providing the Voice Talent for Dozens of Companies and Agencies Since 1991.

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