Demos! They are a necessary part of getting voice over jobs, and they have to be awesome! Do you know what it takes to create an awesome demo? Before you can do that, you have to first know what a demo is all about. A demo is a vital tool for getting voice over work, and if you don’t have one you cannot say that you are even in business. A demo is your calling card, and it is what helps you get your foot in the door.

Voice over demos are not something you want to be too meager with, and it should not just be made up of a bunch of spots all thrown together haphazardly. Your demo will reflect the level of professionalism you bring to the table and the value you can offer the client. It is intended to draw them in, whet their appetite for more and showcase your versatility and range. This is certainly not the place to cut corners because doing so can cost you big time in terms of the work you can secure.

It takes proper training and preparation to create great voice over demos. There is simply no way that you will ever be able to cover up for your inability to effective deliver various scripts properly with background music, so you have to be prepared. Before even thinking of cutting a demo, get proper training from an excellent acting coach.

Each spot of your voice over demo should have a unique flavor to highlight your range and vocal abilities. Along with that, they also need to sound real just like any paid gig. You can count on the client paying close attention to every detail, so you should too. Your goal is to make them want you for the job.

Your voice over demos should be kept clean and up to date. They should accurately represent you and your abilities. If you don’t do this, you may be perceived as being just as outdated as your demos. Always be at your best and truly authentic.

You should be willing to invest in professionally produced demos. Your coach and director should be someone who is also a voice talent and produces who understands how important it is to have a proper demo. In order to get the best out of you, they may have to be brutally honest and have a reputation for producing awesome demos. Ask to see samples of other demos they have produced to see if the music is appropriate, and that the spots have a good flow. Does it come off as clean or is it over-produced? Are you able to hear the versatility in the actor’s voice, or does it just sound all the same with different background music. Here is where you need to be critical.

The expense of doing voice over demos comes from production costs, but it is a great investment for your future. It takes time to properly mix and edit audio tracks used for demos and licensed music is expensive. Look for producers who are also voice talents and coaches that have earned the right to ask a premium for the services they provide.

Remember, you are looking for value not just the lowest price. By choosing a producer who really knows what they are doing, you will be getting what you are paying for even if it is not the most expensive. Your demo will be speaking for you, and with due diligence you will be investing well into your business.