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It’s an old saying, but it’s true – knowledge is power: Know the voiceover industry is what we add to that statement.
Recently I read I social media post where a new voice talent was asking about different pay-to-play (P2P) sites. There is nothing new in that question, as these sites have been discussed ad nauseum. There was plenty of dialogue back and forth – some talent had good luck, some had bad luck – and of course, there were discussions about some of the more…..um….unscrupulous sites.
Now, I could make this P2P discussion an example alone of how to know your industry, as this topic is very much a buyer beware situation.
But there was another comment that struck me even more.
The voice talent, when discussing the P2P options, mentioned that he had already shelled out $3500 for a voiceover demo.
$3500!!!!
Audio only (not even a video demo)!
That is THREE TIMES WHAT A VOICEOVER DEMO SHOULD HAVE COST!
The best demo producers in the country – and we would include Radio Lounge in that group of great voiceover demo providers – do not charge anywhere near $3500 for a vo demo. Usually, high-quality demos will come in between $1000 and $2500 (never have I seen a demo higher than $2500). We charge $1200, which is a really good deal for our expertise, custom content, direction, and audio quality. The question was asked if this included coaching leading up to the demo. The overall consensus was no. This $3500 was just for the demo.
There are a lot of people trying to make money off of voice actors right now. Know who the quality players are in the industry. Join social media groups. Read the forums. Listen to the various podcasts. Get an idea of what things should cost.
Buyer beware.
If you have any questions about demos, or virtual voiceover coaching, or if you are nearby we offer in-person voiceover coaching in Houston, contact Radio Lounge today. We can guide you through this crazy world of voiceover and help you launch your VO career the right way.
Know The Voiceover Industry
#vo #voiceover
M. Bruce Abbott is the Creative Director/Partner at Radio Lounge. Bruce has over 30 years experience as a voice actor, casting and production director, as well as extensive advertising, marketing, and podcasting experience.
