Finding Voice Over Talent On The Web: Five Easy Steps
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Written by: TeranceJ.Daniel
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Word Count: 531 |
Date: Tue, 2 Sep 2008 |
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The sheer number of voice actors vying for jobs today can be a little overwhelming when you're looking for the one perfect candidate to represent your project. Take your search online can be a great way to streamline the process of finding the right voice actor for the job.
When piecing together a multimedia project, you shouldn't underestimate the resources that are freely available on the Internet. Online databases can, for example, allow you to find a perfect sample script at no cost to you, or can serve as valuable reference material if you are writing your own script. Many voice professional nowadays maintain personal websites containing their portfolios and samples of the voice work they have done in the past. Checking out online samples of potential hires' work is a great way to save time during the hiring process.
The Internet is easily the most useful and extensive resource at your disposal during the hiring process, but the time you spend searching for voice talent online may amount to nothing if you don't have a good idea of what you're looking for and how to find it. Here are five simple pointers that will go a long way towards making your time spent on the Internet more effective and valuable.
1. After you you initially contact a potential hire, ask for a sample of their work. If the person in question is the true professional they claim to be, they will have .mpeg samples on hand to send to you, or will direct you to a site where you can heir their work. This first step goes a long way towards weeding out candidates who aren't serious about getting the job.
2. Ask that all potential candidates submit a formal rsum. Professional voice talent should also have no trouble providing you with a rsum that exhibits their work experience. You will also want to check in on two or more of your potential hire's references, to get an accurate and balanced picture of his or her ability.
3. Ask how the voice actor prefers to be compensated. It's a good idea to ask potential voice talent what their per-hour and per-project rates are. You should also take note of whether her or she will accept payment after completing the job or expects money up front, with the rest delivered afterwards.
4. Interview voice talent over the telephone. If you do not have the opportunity to conduct a face to face interview, a telephone interview is the next best thing, as it will give you a clearer picture of his or her personality, experience, and level of confidence. An interview conducted on the telephone will also give you the opportunity to hear a short sample reading from your potential hire.
5. Ask if the candidate can complete the assignment digitally. Many professional voice actors have home studios in which they can records, save their performances as media files, and upload the finished product to the Internet. If this is a possibility, it's a great way to save on the usual costs associated with enlisting the services of a voice actor or actress.
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