If this is your first time searching for that perfect voice for your project, it can be daunting. You will come across many companies offering voice over services. Here are some tips to help you in your search!
1. Union or non-union? You can choose to hire a union voice actor or non-union voice actor. The difference between the two titles is strictly cost. If you are using an advertising agency consult with them first. It is no secret that hiring a union voice actor/narrator will cost more money than a non-union voice actor/narrator, especially if your project is a broadcast project. Non-union voice actors work for themselves and can set their own costs, and can typically negotiate with you. You should know that being a non-union or union voice actor/narrator has nothing to do with experience or quality. Many great voice actors are non-union. However, with union voice actors, you can be assured of top-shelf professionals and exceptional quality. Here is a link to good information on this topic.
2. Using an online voice over casting service. There are multiple websites that provide a directory of voice actors that you can choose from. You can submit your project as an open audition, or "casting call," and you may receive upwards of 150 auditions. Out of the 150 auditions you may find that only a few are worth your consideration. Keep in mind that you will come across many voice actors who should not be in the business. You may like their voice and "read," but the real nightmare comes after you hire them. Many of these folks simply do not know how to record correctly. They do not provide a "clean" file for you to use in your project. Most of the time, they have no editing experience, or have no clue how to eliminate street sounds or background noise from their recordings. Many new voice actors use cheap equipment in their studios. The last thing you want to worry about is having your project delayed due to the inexperience of the voice actor. Make sure you hire someone with at least five years of experience who can provide solid references to you.
3. Hire someone because of experience and not because of price. We all want something for nothing, but we get what we pay for. You may have a budget but keep in mind that the right voice over can improve the odds of your message making an impact by over 50 percent! It is not enough to have flashy graphics or slides. If you find the right voice actor who can interpret your script the way you envision it, who can produce the audio with a professional sound, and can deliver it to you quickly, what is that worth to you? If you come across a voice actor who is willing to produce your 5000 word script for $75, look elsewhere.
