Finding voice over work and getting an agent

Want to know how to find work and get an agent? Auditioning tips straight from the Voice Cat.

Hi Voice cat (Marc),

Thanks for your time. I have a few questions for you.

First, as far as Voices.com goes; do you think it's better to send each client their script recorded for the audition? I have been mostly sending my demo or a recent commercial that I did but am not getting many responses.

Meridith, thanks for your inquiry. Absolutely, whenever requested, send an audition of the script (or a portion thereof, if it's lengthy), with a watermark for your protection.

Most clients have a hard time "making the leap," i.e., trying to determine if your voice is right for their copy when they only hear your V-O demo. If the copy's short, do more than one take on an audition, and put them all on one file, with spaces in between.

Make sure your mic set-up sounds good (email yourself your audition first, to hear if it's good enough for submission). If it's a timed spot (i.e., a :30 or :60 commercial), don't worry if your read goes slightly over that time. Just submit a great performance!

Also, I have been in the business for a little less than a year. I have tried to get an agent, but I live in South Florida and the v/o market isn't big out here, so I work freelance with a couple. Do agents not like to work with out of town talent?

You're right, there aren't many V-O agents in your neck of the woods, but there have got to be some nearby!

I'd suggest a diligent internet search to round up some more candidates. A number of V-O agencies around the country work with out-of-town talent, but most want them to be local. It's not that they don't like to work with out-of-town talent; it's just that they prefer home-grown talent, and are selective about working with outsiders.

What else can I do to try and get jobs on my own? I am a Voices.com member, send MP3's out to agents & advertising agencies all the time. I do have a gig working for two NY radio stations, so that's good, but how do I get the big accounts? Any advice??

First of all, start submitting auditions instead of sending your demo. If you're talented, you'll start booking soon.

Second, get a professional analysis of your current V-O demo to determine if your voiceprint and the production is competitive. Consider packaging as well as content. If you're working for radio stations (I assume doing Image spots), you may be sounding too "Radio-ish," i.e., not commercial. V-O agents usually don't sign actors who sound like they just finished their shift at the local Radio station.

Thanks again for your questions, and please let me know if I've been helpful with my answers!

Sincerely,

Marc

If you have any questions, please write to me and I’ll get back to you on the blog with my answers.

MARC CASHMAN creates and produces copy and music advertising for radio and television. Winner of over 150 advertising awards, he also instructs voice acting of all levels through his classes, The Cashman Cache of Voice-Acting Techniques in Los Angeles, CA.