VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

[Lindq]

Have a minute? I have a few questions about the VO business.

I'm a former director/production company owner. Retired from that side of the mike 10 years ago. Now considering VO work. But, some things have changed a lot in 10 years, so I'd appreciate some info.

My interest is narration. Corp/industrial/programs etc.

Questions:

1. Any recommendations (who you have used) for good evaluation/coaching?
2. Any honest/reputable websites for marketing/listing VO talent?
3. Technology - What's currently in use for distance recording (out of town.)
4. Auditions - I've been reading some chatter regarding the hassle of auditions. Back in my day, without distance technology, that wasn't too common, and I relied heavily on demos for casting. But in the narration marketplace, (not spots) how much are you being hit with it? And do I get the impression that talent are sometimes asked to pay a fee for the recording services if you are out-of-town?

Your responses, and this site, are appreciated.
Regards,
David

[Philip Banks]

1. Any recommendations (who you have used) for good evaluation/coaching?

Not really. The best judges are the people who hire voices. Coaching at a basic level? Lots of them around but try and ask questions that cut through the "spin".

2. Any honest/reputable websites for marketing/listing VO talent?

All are honest and reputable and for the most part about as much use as an 8 year old girl at a bare knuckle fight. If anyone quotes an exception please note - There are no exceptions.

3. Technology - What's currently in use for distance recording (out of town.)

ISDN is still top of the list and the number of session done as VOIP (using Source Connect for example) are minimal.

4. Auditions - I've been reading some chatter regarding the hassle of auditions. Back in my day, without distance technology, that wasn't too common, and I relied heavily on demos for casting. But in the narration marketplace, (not spots) how much are you being hit with it? And do I get the impression that talent are sometimes asked to pay a fee for the recording services if you are out-of-town?

If you are an experienced voice you should not have to audition for routine industrial/corporate jobs. As an unknown voice your demo should still get you most jobs if it has been well produced. I've never been asked to pay for out of town studios. If the producer has cast your voice then it should be within his budget to cover the cost of hiring you.

I'm guessing a lot of what you've read and heard are excuses as to why people are struggling as opposed to reasons why some people are doing OK or succeeding.

Step one on your journey - Pay someone doing well in the market into which you wish to sell yourself to spend 2 hours with you to find out if you indeed have a product fit for purpose. My suggestion would be Deirdre Cooper, our board Guvnor.

[Eddie Eagle]

Hi David,
I've worked with Nancy Wolfson for coaching and really like the progress I made. She gives it to you straight... no powder coat...and you'll make progress leaps and bounds. A bit pricey but if your'e really serious... she's worth the $.

[Rob Ellis]

I echo Eddie's Nancy Wolfson recommendation.