- One Reason People Get Fired From Voiceover Jobs

This comes up way too often I'm sad to report. I have heard from people in the industry year after year that there are simply too many people who have great VO demos who don't read with the same competence in the booth that their demo displays. It is incredibly important to practice all the time as if you're in a booth doing a job. Go to a gig all warmed up and sharp. They aren't there to listen to you wake up or get rolling. If they greet you and chit chat fine, but don't start telling long stories. Be prepared. Be on time. The first read out of your mouth should demonstrate that you are a pro and ready to go. Time is money, and it's their money.
In order to really be able to take direction and deliver professional reads, you have to be able to vary cadence and melody to solve problems of articulation and or meaning. Have fun out there and practice like you're going to the olympics. You can do it, you can succeed.

- Voiceover Jobs in Your Own Backyard:)

People naturally wonder about getting a voiceover talent agent. It's not how most people start though. Careers don't usually go from nothing to having representation. It's important to build up some job experience because no wants to go first. There are always people in everyones circle who might need an on hold message, friends who need a short voiceover for their web site, HR departments perhaps where you work that need a VO update on company policies. Make a list of everyone you know and think through who might need a little voiceover work that will help them and give you some real job experience.  Keep in mind that you can also do Reading for the Blind. It's done for free, but they are always very appreciative and it's great experience

- VoiceOvers • You Don't Have To Be Like Everyone Else:)

I have been asked a number of questions this month about being like other "great announcers" or famous voiceover artists. Those people are successful and have great skills and much can be learned from them.
However you do not have to be "like them" but you do have be be as skilled as they are. There are many examples of VO artists who were very different and whose "styles"were joked about and thought incorrect. Lots of those peoples styles then became very popular, HAH!

You must always believe there is a place for you. You must always prepare like there is a place for you. You must always know that your best chance of getting work, is to be yourself.

- Learn What You're Doing Before Someone Wants You:)

I hear a lot of stories from people who have been interested in doing voiceovers but never pursued training of any kind, Then they are asked by someone to do a voiceover and want help. That is not the best time to develop your skill set. Prepare yourself before someone wants you to do VO work so you'll be asked back.
Here are some detailed thoughts on why VO classes are necessary from my web site free articles page.   Articles

- The Importance of Authenticity

There are many qualities that make up a successful voiceover career. There are many ways to look at the success of any voiceover artist. Different vocal qualities create different kinds of appeals.
There is a recurring quality that I've noticed over the years that has a major influence on a persons success. That quality is authenticity.
Many people are very well spoken and have learned the various styles of voiceovers. There is an issue however that in some cases the voice is stuffed into the style instead of figuring out how that voice and personality can best represent that style without going outside of the compass of the voice or personality. In other words there is a loss of authenticity. Some times casting directors will write notes like, "Nice voice...doesn't mean it". If something isn't idea driven, if it does't sound like you're speaking spontaneously to a close friend, it lacks authenticity.
It doesn't sound like a person "means it"
Exploring the dynamics of your voice when you are most authentic and natural can pay big dividends in taking your voiceover career to the next level.