8 Simple Step Guide to hiring Voiceover Talent (how-t0)
And Tips for Frequently made MISTAKES!
Have you never hired talent for a project? Maybe you have no clue about where to start. ❤️ Here’s the guide to get you going.
1. Decide what style you need.
Pick the sound, for example: warm, fast, funny, or serious. Find out how long the clip is and where it will play (web, ad, phone, TV).
2. Pick where to look.
You can use sites like Voice123, Voices, Bodalgo, Backstage, Actors Access, VOplanet, or Fiverr. (For audiobooks try ACX or AhabTalent.) Some sites charge to post jobs.
3. Or hire an agent.
Agents can help find good talent. Expect about 15–20% extra on top of the talent’s rate. Agents usually want you to contact talent through them.
4. Or hire direct.
Use referrals, social media, or web search. This gives you more freedom to talk price and rights.
5. Write a clear brief.
Tell the talent: tone, pace, script, length, deadline, budget, where the audio will be used, file type (WAV or MP3), and if you want raw or edited audio. Say if you want a live-directed session.
6. Ask for auditions or demos.
Request a short read or sample. Some pros send two versions or a few takes so you have an idea of their range. Here you decide who to work with for your project.
7. Agree money & rights, then sign.
Set the pay and usage (how long you can use the audio and where it's available). Put it in writing or a simple contract. If you hire on a site, follow their rules.
8. Get files, review, and finish.
Talent sends files or you do a live session. Listen. Ask for small fixes if needed. Drop the final audio into your video or hand to your editor.
Some quick tips for frequently made mistakes:
Be specific. Clear notes save time.
Pay fair. Good audio costs less than bad edits.
(if you need help with this check out my calculator tool)Ask for the file type you need, I usually send both. WAV = best. MP3 = smaller.
Let talent know if you want audio raw or processed.
Live direction is great for fast tweaks.
