Key Traits Of Great Voice Over Talent

When you're searching for the right match in voice over talent, there are a few key traits that set apart the good from the great.  Hiring great voice over talent means you can count on professional services and enhance your advertising for maximum impact.  Whether you're creating slogans, delivering a narration, or just need a voice over artist to stage a mock conversation, finding the right fit is an important part of your marketing plan.  Voice over talent agents can work with you to narrow down a few choices, but the final decision rests in your hands.  

Here are some of the key traits of great voice over talent:

1.He or she has  a believable voice.  Though there is certainly a place for exaggerated narration in the style of an announcer or newscaster, you're generally going to want an actor or actress who can perform naturally in a wide range of vocal styles.

2.The voice over has the right pitch and tone.  Voice over artists are constantly practicing different pitches and tones of their voice so that they can create their own 'music.' This ensures that their voice stands apart from the rest; take the time to listen for distinct characteristics that make them different from other actors and actresses.

3.The voice over talent has quality demo tapes.  Demo tapes are generally requested as part of the interview process, and you'll need these to evaluate the talent after the interview and testing is over.  Professional voice over artists will have these items prepared and ready for your review.

4.The voice over talent can change and adapt to different types of readings.  You can ask the artist to read from different styles of literature to gain an understanding of how flexible and adaptable they are.  This is especially important if you're marketing to different types of people and need varied voices for each segment.

5.He or she exhibits a good vocal flow.  In everyday speech, most of us stop and start erratically, and do not have much control over our speed.  In the case of a professional voice over artist, this should not be so - a voice actor or actress should be able to speak in a fluid manner.

6.References. Checking into the references that you receive from potential hires is an essential part of the hiring process, as it will give you an invaluable chance to see whether or not your candidate truly is the seasoned professional he or she claims to be.  

7.The voice over artist has a high energy level.  You need to work with someone who can withstand the stresses and pressure of recording, re-recording, and in many cases, starting from scratch.  Try to determine if they can articulate and develop a strong voice even when they may be tired or repeating the same piece for an extended period of time.

Hiring the right voice over talent can take time, but there are some key traits to look for during the interview and testing process.  Look for any or all of these important qualities during your hiring process to ensure you find the perfect match for your marketing initiative.