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Voice Over Genres

Oftentimes, when I’m at a networking event and I tell someone that I’m a voice actor, the first response is usually, “Really?! Cool!” Followed by, “Where have I heard you? I love animation!”
I proudly say, “Voice actors are everywhere!”

Here’s a quick rundown and examples of various genres of voice-over.

Commercials: Advertising and/or a call to action. Voice actors can be heard on radio, online, or on TV.

Promo: Promos typically have more energy than trailers. “Tonight at 7 on ACN news!”

Movie Trailer: “Gremlins. Rated PG-13. Only in theatres.”

Video games: Not only are voice actors having conversations with other characters, but they are also making sounds called exertions. i.e., grunts during a fighting scene.

Animation: Voice actors are characters in children’s and adult programs seen on TV or in the movies.

Radio Imaging: The voice of the radio station. “WBRG FM. Only in the Burg!”

In-show TV Narration: The voice guiding the audience through a story i.e., a documentary, reality TV show.

E-Learning/Corporate Narration: Training modules. The voice actor’s job is to make the script sound engaging to the listener.

Voice of God: The voice you hear in the theatre. “Ladies and gentlemen, please silence all mobile devices. The program will begin in 5 minutes.”

Live Announcer: This could be the sports announcer or the announcer at an awards ceremony.

Telephony: The voice guiding you through a business phone directory isn’t always automated. Oftentimes, it’s a friendly voice actor!

Radio Drama: This genre is reminiscent of a play, but the audience is brought into the story through an auditory experience.

Voice over consists of many exciting genres, and there’s a different set of skills for each. Next time you run into a voice actor at a networking event, ask them what genre they work in. They’ll
be pleasantly surprised.

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Tips For a Successful Directed Session

You’ve listened to over 100 auditions, waited for feedback from the client, and have finally decided upon the perfect voice actor for the project. Now it’s time to decide whether you want
the voice actor to record the script on their own and send you the audio files, or if you want a directed session.

A directed session ensures you get the dynamic read you’re seeking the first time, rather than listening to multiple files from the voice actor, trying to capture the tone you want, or correcting
pronunciations.

How can you make a directed voice-over session a positive experience for you, your client, and the talent?

1. Make sure time zones are clear when scheduling the sessions. Is your session at 10am EST, CMT, or UK?

2. Inform the talent of expectations. What platform will you be utilizing? Is it a Source Connect session with an audio engineer, or do you want the talent to record the session?
How soon do you want the audio file after the session? What format do you want to receive the audio file? Getting these questions answered upfront will avoid confusion and
frustration later.

3. Provide the final script to the voiceover actor at least 24 hours before the session, if possible. Give the talent an opportunity to review and warm up to the words before the
session. Reviewing the script helps prepare the voice actor. You’ve heard Alexander Bell’s saying, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.” This statement
includes directed sessions. The last thing you want is the voice actor to stumble over words in front of your client because they haven’t had a chance to review the script. Of
course, there are times when alt lines are added during the session, and that’s fine. At least the voice actor understands the script.

4. Provide a pronunciation guide before the session. This saves time for people who have to make calls to figure out how names should be pronounced.

5. Finally, identify the person who will direct the session. A directed session runs smoothly when there’s an identified director, the creative team, and the client are all on the same
page. It’s also helpful if the director is the individual speaking to the talent during the session.

6. Enjoy the collaborative process of bringing the script to life.

Hopefully, these tips will lead to successful directed sessions. Happy recording!

–Kenita Hill, Voice Actor

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Cold symptom. Young woman with tissue and cup of hot drink at home
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Sore Throat SOS: Voice-Saving Remedies Every Voice Actor Needs

A friend of mine was deep in the trenches of a stubborn, long-lasting cold. Her throat was raw, her voice had all but vanished, and of course she had a calendar full of sessions. Classic timing, right?

Sure enough she said panic was about to set in when she remembered me (smile). Being a friend and fellow voiceover queen, I was able to swoop in like the “vocal angel” with some vocal health remedies. I had a throat-saving game plan.

My remedies? Lifesaving. My tone? Loving but firm. And the results? Immediate. Within 24 hours, she went from sounding like a gravel road to delivering a clean, clear take.

Now, I want to continue to pay it forward. Whether you’re battling a cold, stuck in allergy season, or just trying to keep your sound sharp, these are the go-to tips every voice actor should keep in their vocal toolkit- especially when your livelihood depends on your voice!

  1. The Soothing Power of the Ginger-Honey-Citrus Elixir

This right here? A warm, throat-hugging miracle.

You’ll need:

  • Fresh ginger (grated) or ginger extract
  • Squeeze of orange or splash of OJ
  • 1–2 tablespoons of manuka or raw honey

Stir it into hot water and sip slowly. Ginger reduces inflammation and cuts through phlegm, citrus boosts your vitamin C, and honey coats and soothes your throat. Pure magic.

Keaver’s Pro Tip: Place a spoonful of the honey-ginger mix under your tongue every couple hours. Let it dissolve slowly for a natural lozenge effect.

  1. Gargling: The VO Secret Weapon

Gargle every 30 to 60 minutes with warm water and kosher salt. It draws out infection, reduces swelling, and keeps bacteria from spreading.

It’s not glamorous, but it’s one of the oldest, most reliable ways to reclaim your voice.

  1. Total Vocal Rest

No talking. No whispering. No “just one line.”

Use a notepad or your phone to communicate. The less strain, the faster the bounce-back.

Rest your voice like your career depends on it—because it does.

  1. Steam + Sweat Method

Get that steam going:

  • Use a humidifier or breathe in steam from a boiling pot
  • Rub Vicks on your neck/chest
  • Wrap your throat in a hot towel
  • Get in bed, comforter up to your neck, take a quick nap, then steam shower
  • Toss on a hoodie and gently sweat it out

You might feel like you’re in a DIY sauna, but your throat will thank you.

  1. Let That Mucus Move

Keep tissues handy and let your body do what it needs to do. Blow your nose, spit that phlegm, and don’t hold anything in.

Each trip to the bathroom is a vocal health opportunity: gargle, hydrate, release.

  1. Water > Everything Else

Take your meds if prescribed. Then hydrate like you’re auditioning for a water commercial. 8–10 bottles a day. No excuses.

Water keeps mucus thin and cords flexible. Coffee and soda are not your friends today.

  1. Allergy or Cold? Same Strategy, Different Intensity

That honey-ginger-orange tea? A daily go-to during pollen season. Pair it with salt gargles and humidifier sessions when you’re full-on sick. Walk outside. Light exercise if you’re up for it.

Consistency makes all the difference.

  1. When You Have to Record

Sometimes the deadline doesn’t move. If you must record:

  • Gargle before AND after
  • Sip elixir throughout
  • Warm up gently
  • Rest completely afterward

Deliver it. Then disappear.

Your Vice Deserves Care

You can’t pour from an empty vocal cup. Colds, allergies, and sore throats are frustrating, but they don’t have to derail your career.

With a few tools, some old-school remedies, and the wisdom of those who’ve walked this path, you can recover faster and protect your power.

If this helped you, share it with a fellow voice actor, audio pro, or anyone who depends on their voice for work. Save this blog for the next time the tickle turns into trouble. And don’t forget to follow @Keaversvoice for more voice-first wisdom and vocal care gold.

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Parachute
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Who’s packing your parachute?

Who’s packing your parachute is a question we should all be able to answer with confidence. To be successful in offering premiere voice service to our clients we all need people that provide for us. People that believe in us. People that support us. Take pride in building us up. And in a myriad of ways – vocal, physical, mental, spiritual, technical, social, PR, and many more.

Becoming qualified to pack a parachute takes a particular person. They’ve passed requirements, taken classes, been reviewed, and given much more of themselves than they’ve received in return. Remember, our parachutes have to be reliable, consistent, deploy at the proper time, without snares, tangles, or twists. At the end of the day, we need to be able to maneuver our voice over artist careers without damaging our reputation or our voice by putting ourselves in the hands of people we trust.

Let’s take a look at a few parachute packers and unpack the numerous responsibilities they maintain on our behalf.

Talent managers are unique per person. You have to find someone that shares your vision and goals. And as a result, they are an extension of you and are most times the first person a company will see when being introduced to your brand. A manager may set up meetings, field prospects, get you in front of casting that may be a good fit, help determine the best agent and facilitate an introduction to an agent, advise on coaching, publicize, promote to help book and get auditions, develop brand, craft copyrighting, monitor website presence, create ad strategy, set budget goals, establish professional relationships, answer our endless questions, and I could go on and on. Most of these responsibilities are daily tasks. Not just for one person but many clients. All of whom are treated as special and unique.

Voiceover coaches are the people who sometimes tell you what you don’t want to hear. Right?! I can hear them in my sleep, can’t you? ‘Give me the read with a different tone?’ ‘In other words, humanize the copy with non-speech sounds.’ ‘Now with less inflection, make it more conversational, and a bit warmer?’ Above all, ‘let’s try that again with more acting and less reading.’ ‘A tongue-twister three times as fast is doable.’ (I dare you to try it!) Remember, your vocal coach may push through your resistance to find a vocal sound you both will enjoy. And more than anything, providing a comfortable atmosphere to make sure you’re enjoying the coaching. It is said, we retain more when we are happy learners!

Our talent agents also spend a lot of their time sending and answering emails, in addition to making and receiving phone calls on our behalf. They decipher breakdowns to determine where we fit, arrange auditions, resolve any conflict of interest, provide auditions we may not be able to get on our own, liaison to the union representative, negotiate monies and contracts, all in hopes of us booking the job. However, these amazing souls are some of the fasting moving people I’ve ever seen in the industry. On one of my visits to the office, I was astonished how many calls came through, how many internal conversations were going on at the same time, and everyone understood each other while replying to emails. Ha!

As a professional voiceover actor, we know these are not the only parachute packers by far. What about the audio guru who designs your premium sound? Or the local voiceover studio that offers affordable classes that you can attend in person or online, for instance. And don’t forget your union that provides free resources and classes. Promo producer/directors/copywriters who determine the best copy to represent you, and direct your session with valuable information that keeps you booking. What about your family and friends and neighbors who listen to you practice, practice, practice as you tell them over, and over again you booked the job? Then there’s a casting director who keeps you in their front pocket. Repeat clients. Blogs. Podcasts. Websites. And please don’t forget the hearts and likes that help you go viral so you can be discovered. #parachutepackers

So, what have we done to appreciate those who packed our parachute? Have we congratulated them, or asked how we can help them, or offered a simple hello when we are not asking for anything in return? Everyone appreciates a smile or words of encouragement. One thing I know, being prepared is one of the highest accolades we can give our parachute team. Preparing ourselves, doing on time what they ask of us, practicing when we don’t feel like it, and presenting our best when the opportunity unveils itself is the most significant way to show appreciation and say thank you!

I used to be a golfer (in my mind I’m still a golfer… fore!) and learned there is a sweet spot on the ball. When opportunity meets preparedness, you can make a hole-in-one. That was a time when I had practiced a ridiculous number of hours, and the green and the wind were at my advantage. That hole-in-one was mine! That applies to life as well. We must strive to be our best selves. Challenge and demand our best selves. Focus. Forget the 10K hours to master your craft. You are the key. Reinvent yourself and be ready when your time comes.

As voiceover talent, there is so much more to our existence than talking into a microphone. We have a to-do list that challenges the savviest entrepreneur. We have to (not in any order):

  • Be true to our brand
  • Engage with our customers
  • Keep an eye on social media feeds
  • Like posts
  • Comment on posts
  • Post our posts
  • Include relevant hashtags
  • Stay active in online social groups
  • Respect time and family
  • Study, study, study
  • Attend a VO class
  • Be in tune with our management
  • Prepare for our coaching session
  • Bring our A-game to our agent
  • Build social content
  • Update our demos
  • Listen to our audio guru
  • Examine our analytics
  • Connect with new clients
  • Create and refine our marketing tools
  • Adjust our goals
  • Act conversational
  • Have a trusted friend and colleague in VO
  • Trust ourselves
  • Practice and preach ‘Failure is Not an Option’
  • Remain committed
  • Stay patient
  • Embrace change
  • Listen

And remember ‘everything is content’

Here is the key to all of this… A while ago I had a conversation with Dan Hurst. What a great person and an amazing voice actor! I discovered his Voice Talent’s Prayer online. He also recognizes those who packed our parachute don’t get enough credit or appreciation in this business. Dan was so very kind to allow me to quote him in this very personal prayer that we can all pray and apply to our daily lives.

A VOICE TALENT’S PRAYER

Dear God,

Thank you for giving me the unique and privileged opportunity to be in the voiceover business. Not too many people can say that they absolutely love what they do, but I can!

I’m grateful for clients who must be the absolute best in the world. Well, except for that one guy that totally scammed me, but that’s between You and him now. Please bless my clients! Make their efforts and hard work completely successful. Overwhelm them with the rewards of a job well done.

And thank you for the fellow voice talents You’ve put in my life. You’ve made me better by knowing them, and I am inspired, motivated, and challenged by each of them.

Lord, there are some folks who don’t get enough credit or appreciation in this business: the engineers, and producers, and writers, and translators that make magic out of my often inane and inadequate performance. Please bless them in a special way!

But most of all, thank You for a wife and kids that put up with my idiosyncrasies and weirdness. You’ve given them great patience and a high tolerance to my obsession. I know it’s not right to stay up until 3 am working on a silly audition that I have a 1 in a 1000 chance of getting, but how cool is it that I can!?!?!

I really only have one thing to ask for. Would it be OK if I kept doing this? I mean, would You connect me with the right people so that I can keep doing this for a long time? That would be awesome!

So, I just wanted to say THANKS! I know I don’t deserve it, but WOW, You’ve been good to me! I am of all people most fortunate, and I am deeply, deeply grateful.

A Voice Talent’s Prayer is used with permission from the author Daniel Eduardo Hurst. https://www.danhurst.com/ Reference, Hurst, D.E. (2010). A Voice Talent’s Prayer.

 

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Diverse Voicees
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How to find diverse voices without being offensive

So, you’re on the hunt for the perfect voice – one that doesn’t sound like the same old, same old. If you’re ready to add some real personality to your project, let’s break it down into three easy steps:

Listen Broadly: Expand Your Ears, Expand Your World
Don’t be the person who only eats plain toast when there’s a whole breakfast buffet in front of them.

Cast Inclusively: No Checkbox Casting Here!
Look, it’s 2025 – “We need someone urban” is not the way to go (seriously, don’t say that).

Pay Like You Mean It: Respect the Talent, Respect the Craft

In short: pay well, and you’ll attract top-tier talent. Plus, karma points!

Final Thoughts
Finding diverse voices isn’t rocket science – it just takes intention. Listen broadly, cast thoughtfully, and pay fairly. And hey, if you need a dynamic, diverse, and downright delightful voice, I *might* just know someone (spoiler: it’s me). Let’s chat!

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Pathway to Success
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Embrace the Journey: Navigating the Pathway to Success

Every month is the month of fresh starts and new beginnings, unfolds like a blank canvas awaiting the strokes of your dreams and aspirations. As we embark on this journey, the possibilities are as endless as the pathways that grace the world outside.

Each month marks a pivotal time for reflection, goal setting, and creative rejuvenation in the world of voiceover and entertainment. It’s each month when we sharpen our skills, explore new horizons, and channel the year’s energy ahead along the pathway to success.

Embracing New Challenges:

The start of a new month or even new day often comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. It’s a time to reassess our personal and professional goals and take those courageous steps toward self-improvement.

For voiceover artists, this is the perfect moment to dive into fresh projects, expand our repertoire, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share our passion for storytelling. A morning’s crisp, cool air invigorates our creative spirits, reminding us of the magic that awaits within our vocal cords.

  1. Positive Mindset: Approach challenges with a positive mindset. See them as opportunities for growth to explore new horizons rather than obstacles blocking the path.
  2. Goal Setting: Define clear and achievable goals for yourself. Try journaling. Break down the challenge into smaller tasks, making it more manageable.

Setting the Stage for Success:

In the entertainment industry, preparation is critical. As the year unfolds, we meticulously prepare our voices, minds, and schedules for the exciting projects. January becomes a time of vocal warm-ups, script readings, and refining our craft.

And it’s not just about the voice. It’s about the dedication, the perseverance, and the willingness to embrace challenges head-on. With every project, whether a narration, a character role, a promo read, or a commercial, we bring our unique talents to the forefront, leaving a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

  1. Learn Continuously: Embrace the learning process to sharpen our skills. Every challenge is a chance to acquire new skills and knowledge. Stay curious and open-minded with creative rejuvenation. Try some new vocal warm-ups.
  2. Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek guidance from others who have faced similar challenges. Support from friends, mentors, or colleagues can make a significant difference. Consider choosing an accountability partner for script readings.
  3. Adaptability: Be flexible and adaptable. Challenges may not always go as planned, and being able to adjust your approach is crucial. Refining your craft can be an exciting journey along the pathway to success.

 A Heartfelt Conclusion:

As each month ushers us into promising new options, I’m filled with optimism and excitement for the journey ahead. The path to success may be winding, but we tread with unwavering determination and a passion for what we do.

  1. Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way. Try a vision board. Recognizing your progress can boost motivation and confidence.
  2. Reflection: Take time to reflect on your experiences. What did you learn? How did you grow? This self-reflection can provide valuable insights for the months ahead.

Join me in embracing this month’s pathway to success. Follow for more inspiration and ignite your creativity. Let’s inspire and support each other as we navigate the uncharted territories of this year, one step at a time.

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Brand
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The Brand, The Buzz, and The Bank Account: Your Blueprint for Success

Success in the voiceover industry – or any industry -boils down to three essential elements: The Brand, The Buzz, and The Bank Account. When these three work together, they create an unstoppable force that attracts opportunities, builds credibility, and, most importantly, gets you paid.

The Brand: Establishing Your Unique Identity
Your brand is more than just a logo or tagline—it’s the way people experience you. It’s your voice, your story, your personality, and how you position yourself in the market.

The Buzz: Creating Conversations and Connections
A strong brand without buzz is like a beautifully wrapped gift that no one knows exists. You have to generate excitement and keep people talking about your work.

The Bank Account: Turning Influence into Income
At the end of the day, the goal is to monetize your brand and buzz. Building a profitable business means strategically positioning yourself for high-paying opportunities.

Final Thoughts
Keep refining your brand, fueling the buzz, and maximizing your earning potential. I’m on my way to my $350K goal this year—are you ready to hit yours? Let’s build the brand, spark the buzz, and secure the bag!

By Yolanda Spearman – Voice Talent

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Calendar with Red Mark for Date
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What’s your availability? How to book a Voice Talent without pulling out your hair.

Here’s the deal: voice actors live and die by their calendar. It’s their lifeline, their rhythm, their holy grail of scheduling success. You might think you’re just reserving a time slot – but to a VO talent, that calendar is sacred ground.

And the number one thing every voice actor wants? To be available for your project. We really do want to say yes. So if you’re hoping for an effortless, drama-free recording experience, here’s how to make it a win/win.

  1. Be transparent: We CAN handle the truth

(if you didn’t get it… Reference to movie a few good men)

Still wrangling that final script edit? Not totally sure when the legal team will bless the copy? Just say so! We’d rather hear, “The script’s still cooking,” than get ghosted after we’ve lit a candle and warmed up our pipes.

Tell us what stage you’re in – planning, editing, or full-blown panic mode. It helps us help you.

  1. Don’t hold the calendar hostage

Voice actors typically book hourly and often juggle multiple clients in one day. Holding two hours “just in case” is like putting a reservation on every table at a restaurant and showing up with one friend.

Book what you need—and if you’re unsure, over-communicate. We’ll appreciate the heads-up and can likely build in flex time.

  1. Directed Sessions are like GPS for Your Project

Want to avoid multiple rounds of revisions and emails with timestamps like “00:42 – can we make that less smiley?” Then opt for a directed session. (there is normally a session fee for a directed session but if its not in your budget just let the Voice Talent know – directed sessions are a good thing)

It doesn’t matter if you use your cellphone,  Zoom, Source Connect, carrier pigeon—whatever it takes. Being present while we record means you can guide the tone, pace, and style in real time. You’ll get exactly what you want the first time around (and we’ll feel like superheroes).

  1. Ask about upcoming Avails: Ocean Wifi is not our friend

Picture this: You need urgent pickups and your voice actor is somewhere between Egypt and Greece with zero WiFi and a drink in their hand. Not ideal.

Most voice actors won’t proactively share their vacation schedule (we’re optimistic like that), but if you ask, we’ll tell you. So if your project may need pick ups or alt lines, check in about our availability over the next few weeks. It’s a simple question that can save everyone

  1. More work on the horizon: Heck yes please let us know

Working on another script that might get approved but might not and you are already thinking about how your chosen Voice Talent is perfect for the script? Let us know.  Voice actors *love* repeat business and we’ll bend over backwards to make space for a returning client.

Tell us that, “We may have something else coming.” This is music to our ears—and we’ll mark a mental Post-it for you to make sure we are available when you email us.

Bottom line: this is the relationship you didn’t know you had!

The more you share, the smoother the session. We’re not just voices—we’re partners vested in telling your story. Transparency builds trust. Timing builds ease. And good communication builds brilliant audio. (that sounds kinda smart. I love a good quip!)

Need a voice that’s warm, relatable and a tad bit conversational, and just might record from a closet for the right project? (Spoiler alert: it’s me.) Let’s put it on the calendar – and make magic together.

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Full Time (Professional Voice Actor)
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“Are You a Professional?”

Being a professional is more than just possessing skill—it’s about delivering consistent, high-quality work every time. Whether you’re an artist, consultant, CEO, or entrepreneur, professionalism is the key to turning your passion into a thriving career. Let’s break down what it truly means to be a professional, work full-time, and balance multiple roles.

Professionalism: Beyond Skill, It’s a Lifestyle

Professionalism isn’t just about what you do; it’s about how you do it. It’s about treating your craft as a business. This means maintaining contracts, invoices, agents, managers, staff, meetings, reviews, advisors, mentors, and clear, reliable communication. A professional doesn’t just show up—they are prepared, delivering on deadlines with unwavering consistency. It’s about setting the bar high and meeting it every single time.

Key Traits of a Professional:

  • Consistent performance
  • Reliability in meeting deadlines
  • Visionary Thinking
  • Resilience
  • Risk Management
  • Financial Acumen
  • Customer Focus
  • Time Management

 What Does It Mean to Be Full-Time?

When discussing being “full-time,” this typically means that your various trades are your primary income streams. For professionals, it involves dedicating most of their working hours to related tasks—in-studio office, out-of-studio office, in-person, online, emails, auditing, networking, and marketing. Full-time professionals often have a steady stream of clients, jobs, and projects, allowing them to rely on their many skills as a career.

A full-time professional’s day might include:

    • Client meetings
    • Networking events
    • Continuous learning
    • Customer Focus
    • Leadership
    • Time Management
    • Health & Wellness

Balancing Multiple Roles: The Professional Juggler

Can you be a ‘professional VO’ while juggling other creative roles? Absolutely. In fact, many professionals are not just doing one thing—they’re directors, coaches, actors, authors, dancers, producers, editors, conference organizers, entrepreneurs, corporate executives, business owners, caregivers, homemakers, knitters, content creators, and more. Balancing these roles requires laser-focused time management and prioritization.

Tips for Balancing Multiple Roles:

  • Ensure each role complements your overall career
  • Diversify to add value to your work
  • Maintain high standards in all commitments

Diversifying your roles can enhance your career and provide additional skills, perspectives, and income streams. The key is ensuring each role enhances your professional standards rather than detracts from them.

The Power and Balance of Focus and Flexibility

To be successful full-time, you need focus. This means maintaining and improving your core skills consistently. But don’t mistake focus for rigidity. Flexibility is just as crucial—it allows you to explore other passions that might actually feed into and enhance your main work.

Cross-training in different roles isn’t just beneficial; it’s transformative. You can be ‘full-time’ in multiple areas- at the same time. Broadening your overall skillset, you gain a deeper understanding of related industries, making your work more robust and innovative. Stay flexible enough to pursue complementary passions. If you’re a sales director for a corporation, learn how to build a sales funnel for your other voiceover streams of income. If you’re a corporate narrator learn ways to do corporate narration for your favorite corporation. If you’re a nurse find copywriters who need medical narration. If you’re a homemaker find casting agents for commercial household and/or children’s products.

Professionalism is Your Pathway to Success

Remember, being a professional isn’t just about skill; it’s about consistency, reliability, and treating your craft with the seriousness it deserves. If you’re full-time and balancing multiple roles, the essence of professionalism remains the same—delivering high-quality work consistently. Focus on honing your skills and stay flexible to explore new opportunities. This balance will sustain your career and push it to new heights with multiple income streams while having fun and enjoying life.

By embodying these principles, you’ll succeed and thrive in whatever field you choose to pursue.

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Voice Direction for Voice Actors Voice Buyers Guide
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Say it like you mean: Guide for VO Buyers

Voice Buyers Guide to Describing the Sound you Want from Voice Actors perspective

Let’s face it – describing a voice is kinda like describing a dream. You know what you want, but when it’s time to say it out loud, all you’ve got is, “Uhh… something warm? But also confident? But also like, you know, not too confident?”

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

If you want to help voice actors knock it out of the park on the first take (or at least avoid sounding like Siri’s emotional cousin), level up how you describe tone. Don’t worry – I got you. Let me break it down.

1. I never knew WARM came in flavors. Well it does!

You say: “We want a warm tone.”

We hear: Hallmark TV – Finding the Love of your life (who doesn’t love a good hallmark movie)

But seriously, “warm” can mean a bunch of things:

  • Motherly Warm: Like your child just lost their first race at school and you are there with a hug waiting at the finish line.
  • Wholesome Warm: That warmth from grandma when you walk in the house and it smells like homemade goodness on the stove and she walks out of the kitchen wiping her hands on her apron with a big smile and says “well hello there stranger.”
  • Caring-But-Professional Warm: Like a pharmacist talking to a customer who always comes in and always needs a little extra help with understanding the instructions on their prescriptions.

Pro tip: Add context to your “warm.” What kind of hug are we giving here – cozy grandma or confident CEO with soft eyes? Or pep talk Momma warm – Confidence with a smile.

2. Did someone say “be direct”. Sounds like a tongue lashing in a nice way. But maybe not.

You say: “Make it direct.”

We hear: “Rip off the Band-Aid.”

Direct can be:

  • Annoyed Direct: A politician with a bone to pick but a race to win so you say it like you mean it. Gloves off. Eye to eye.
  • Edgy Direct: Like a tech CEO pitching in a black turtleneck and absolutely no time for fluff. Just the facts man – oooh if you know that reference you are more mature like me. It’s from Dragnet.
  • Motivational Direct: Like you are hyping up your team before a big sales event.
  • Presentational Direct: You get to do your Ted Talk but on the mic with just me. That’s the kind of presentation when you talk to the audience make eye contact and get your point across quickly and efficiently.

Help us help you. Tell us *who* we’re being direct to. Your team? Your customers? Your ex? (No judgment here.)

3. Soft – But soft how?

You say: “Soft and gentle.”

We hear: “Tiptoe around it like it’s a sleeping baby.”

Or…

  • Childlike Soft: Like reading a bedtime story with your favorite stuffy in hand.
  • Compassionate Soft: Like giving directions to your sweet grandma who can’t hear without a little more volume.
  • I’m-Trying-Not-to-Snap Soft: Like the HR rep who really wants to say “Are you kidding me?” but instead says, “Let’s try that again.”

Tone is in the details. Don’t be afraid to paint the mental picture.

4. A few more voice descriptions that can help you dial-in that sound you seek.

  • Game Show Host With A Mortgage: Energetic, punchy, but just grounded enough to remind you they’ve got bills too.
  • Yoga Instructor who used to be in Sales: Chill but can close a deal.
  • The Barista Philosopher: Casual but kinda smart in an unintrusive way. Listen carefully and you might walk away with a life lesson and a cold brew.
  • Southern Auntie who knows everybody’s business including yours: Warm, sassy, confident and full of tea. The gossipy kind.

Since we are talking Tea I might as well keep spilling it.

Voice actors are experts at channeling characters, emotions, and moods. The more vividly you describe the vibe, the faster we can match your energy. So next time you send that brief, don’t just say “conversational.” Say, “Like you’re giving your friend life advice over tacos.”

Trust me, your message will land better – and the voice talent will love you for it.

Need that sassy confident voice with just a little edge and a lot of tea? I just might know someone (spoiler: it’s me). Let me bring your script to life!

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