Video consumption is rising, but so is online audio listening. In fact, approximately 193 million Americans listen to online audio monthly.
Reaching new and existing customers means being at a place and time where you know they will be. If you want to reach them through online video and online audio listening, you need a compelling voice over narrator to capture their attention.
Not just anyone will do, either. Voice overs are an art form, just like acting on camera. If you want to ensure you find voice over talent that will be the right fit for your audio needs, here is what to consider during your search.
Write Your Script
Before you can hire a voice over talent, they will need a script to read from. Further, you must provide notes to help guide the talent. You must give them voice performance details to get the best result when you hire voice actors.
For example, you can ask that they take an extended pause after a sentence. Another example is if you want a lot of emphasis on a word or sound to make it truly epic. Sometimes you may even desire sarcasm in your narrative.
This is often overlooked. Still, it is important, especially to get a fantastic voice over that conveys the message you want.
Ask About Experience
Most voice over talent will have examples of their work to share. This is how they can pique the interest of a client like you.
The voice actor will have details on the types of voices they specialize in. For instance, you can ask if they have experience in voice over for commercials, explainer videos, etc. You must try to find a voice talent with experience in the video or audio type you want them to record for.
Another piece of information they can tell you is how they would describe their voice, meaning tone, but also age range. For instance, if you are looking for a voice that sounds in their 20s versus their 80s.
You should also decide if you want a male or female voice. Plus, some talent may be able to record in various languages or accents, so keep this in mind during your hiring process.
Ask for an Audition
Next, you can ask for an audition to help you decide if you have the right talent. You will not necessarily get a long file to hear for an audition because you don't need it to determine if you want to move forward. An audition file that is 20 to 30 seconds in length will suffice.
However, voice over artists can give you a sample of their previous work for their other customers, including files similar to what you want.
They can record a short piece of your script to help you decide if he or she is a match. You must give them direction for what you want in the end product. What is nice about auditions is that you can make adjustments when they record the real voice file.
Provide Feedback
It is possible that you may not get what you want on the first recording. This is precisely why auditioning is helpful. However, feedback is essential.
When you send the voice talent your thoughts, be as detailed as possible. Include what you like and what you do not like. For instance, you can ask for more energy.
It’s an important part of the process. Voice talent will not fully understand your needs without providing feedback.
Define Your Brand
If you plan to create a series of audio ads accompanied by video and strictly voice, this tells a story about your company. It is a part of your marketing and a part of your brand. Therefore, you want something consistent.
Customers get a feeling for you from your marketing initiatives. You may want a voice actor like your customer base, someone they can relate to.
Create a Job Description
Are you hiring voice actors for the long term, not just one project?
Especially when you plan to continue to work with one or a few individuals, you should consider creating a specific job description.
This is important for communication because it details what you expect and what your voice talent can expect before you work together.
Further, this is an excellent opportunity to add details about your brand and what you need from voice actors when you partner for projects.
Not only that, but you can request added services to your description. For instance, do you want the voice talent to edit their audio files before sending the final files? If you want them to add music, does the talent know how to edit their voice files with music?
Finally, if you prefer a specific type of audio file when they send you their files, you should include this information in the job description. Examples would be an mp3, mov, or wav file.
Hiring a Voice Over Narrator
When prospective customers engage with your business, you want them to understand your brand clearly. This means matching your needs to the right voice over narrator. As you research, ask about experience, and ask for an audition, but ensure that you also provide precise details and direction.
You can make your search smoother once you clearly identify your expectations.
For high-quality female voice over services, talk to Jamie Hill. Her voice narrations have natural ease, making connecting with your audience simple.
Listen for yourself and contact Jamie Hill today!