Frequently Asked Questions about Voice Over Training

Frequently Asked Questions about Voice Over Training


Q: What are voice-overs?
A: Voice-overs are the spoken parts you hear in radio and tv commercials, automated telephone systems, answering machine messages, audiobooks, movie trailers, infomercials, training videos, video games, etc.


Q: Do I have to be a radio announcer or an actor?
A: No, not at all. In fact, people with normal sounding voices are in high demand.


Q: Do I have to join a union and pay dues?
A: No. You can choose to be union or non-union. Most of the parts you land early on will be non-union. Generally speaking, you only see union work in the larger markets.


Q: Do I need an agent or a manager?
A: No. Many voice actors never have agents. They manage themselves.


Q: How much money can I make in voice-overs?
A: That will depend on your level of talent and how much effort you put into it.


Q: How will I know if I have the talent for voice-overs?
A: Generally, you get a good sense of your vocal abilities during your first voice over coaching session. However, don't be too hard on yourself at first. It may take a few sessions to really find out if voice-overs are for you.


Q: What equipment do I need to get started in voice-overs?
A: Initially you don't need any equipment. All you need are scripts and a place to practice reading aloud. A small recorder is helpful when practicing, but not neccessary.


Q: What do I need to get auditions?
A: You'll definitely need a "Demo Reel" so potential clients can hear samples of your voice. You'll need a telephone, and a computer with Internet and Email is essential. You should have business cards and you may even want your own web site.


Q: Do I need a home studio?
A: Not at first. However once you get serious about voice-over, you'll probably want to set one up. Many voice actors find that a home studio enables them to work, practice and create at any time of the day or night.


Q: What is a "Demo Reel" and why do I need one?
A: The "Demo Reel" is a professionally recorded and produced CD or mp3 consisting of various segments that feature you doing your best voice work. You'll need a demo reel in order for people to hear your voice over samples to get auditions and parts.


Q: Do I have to take all the voice coaching workshops you offer?
A: No. It's highly individual and you only take only the voice over workshops that interest you.


Q: Do you offer private voice over coaching sessions?
A: Yes. In fact all our voice over coaching sessions are private, one-on-one.


Q: Why can't I just read a book about Voice-overs and learn that way?
A: There are several good voice over books, and I suggest you read them all. Each one strongly recommends hiring a "voice-over coach". Plus, you actually need to get into the studio to record and hear yourself. Private voice-over workshops are an easy and smart way to get off to a good start. Many successful people in movies, television, radio, music, the stage and even business professionals all work with voice over coaches.


Q: Are you a management company or talent agency?
A: No. I am perfectly happy to let you manage yourself. However, I am here to help and offer continous consultation. I also provide casting referrals on a percentage basis.


Q: Are there any additional fees or hidden charges for voice sessions?
A: No. You pay nothing except the fee for the sessions. Everything else, scripts, CDs and other materials are supplied without charge.


Q: What if I need help managing my voice-over business?
A: I am available to consult with you on marketing, self-promotion, web site design, demo production, studio set-up and continious voice over coaching.


Q: When and where are the Voice over coaching sessions held?
A: Most sessions are held on weekday afternoons or early evening, and on Saturday morning in my private, fully equipped home studio in Vernon, CT (13 miles east of Hartford). We also offer voice-over classes at Manchester Community College.


Q: How do I sign up and pay for a voice over coaching session?
A: To reserve and hold your spot, payment or deposit is required two (2) weeks in advance of your scheduled date. We accept cash, check and PayPal. For complete details contact me by phone; 800.970.5151 or by email; info@voiceoverworkshop.com


Q: I have more questions. How can I get answers to them?
A: I'm usually available by phone (800.970.5151) 10:00am to 6:00pm eastern, Monday through Saturday. When I'm in the studio (which is often) the answering machine will pick up. Please leave your name and number and I'll call you back shortly. You can always reach me by email; info@voiceoverworkshop.com


DISCLAIMER:
Voice Over Workshop LLC is not an occupational school or higher education facility. We do not offer graduation or issue diplomas or certificates for completion of our workshops. We do not guarantee employment or make any claims regarding future success or earnings.


REFUND POLICY FOR WORKSHOPS AND COACHING SESSIONS

Single Session Refund
If a paid session is cancelled 48 hours prior to the scheduled start time where no studio time has been used and no workshop materials issued, Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the total amount of any deposits received.

If a reserved session is cancelled "day of" where no studio time has been used and no workshop materials issued, Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the total amount of any deposits received, less $50.00 for the first hour of reserved studio time.

Multiple Session Refund
If a paid and unused session is cancelled anytime after a first session has taken place and where workshop materials have been issued, Voice Over Workshop LLC will refund the total of any deposits received, less $50.00 for the first hour of the next reserved studio time. All refunds are issued by check from Voice Over Workshop LLC within 30 days of determination.