This article offers advice on what to look for when hiring a voice artist.

The Voiceover Artist (VO) will represent your company. The correct voice strengthens your image and builds a sense of trust between you and your client.  The wrong sound can be a real turn off for the customer.That’s why choosing the right actor is so important.  Here are several hints to help you find the perfect voice for whatever job requires one.

One tip before getting started:  If you are looking for a professional voiceover artist, then you need to do a little online research to orient yourself.

1. Think of Keywords to Describe Your Brand

Make a list of words that describes your brand, company, or services.  These words will create an image.  For example, if you sell shoes, you might include words like trend, style, and fashionable. You will want to hire a voice actor who can deliver that message.

2. Request Recommendations

Ask around.  If you know people in your industry who have used a voice actor in the past, then ask for a reference.  You can trust a friend’s referral more than some stranger’s review on the internet.  Then again, if the internet’s all you have, then indulge in that research to help steer you in the right direction.

3. Male versus Female Voiceover

Understand that in voiceovers, the gender of the speaker is only a preference.  If you are in marketing, then you already know what’s most important is that the perceived gender of the voice actor will appeal to your target market.

4. Take a gander at Examples of Previous Work

Look at your previous work and determine if it is up to snuff.  If it’s no good, find a different voice actor.  You can do this analytically or qualitatively.  In other words, you can examine company data to determine if you made more or less sales since the last time you had a voice actor.  If sales are on the decline, it wouldn’t hurt to rethink your customer service strategy.  Part of that plan must include rerecording the voiceover of your telephone service menu so that the customers understand your new approach to doing business.  You can also just ask somebody with an ear for voice to say whether they like it.  Either way, a new voice actor could be in your future.

5. Match the Voice to the Audience

This was hinted at before, and it’s worth mentioning again:  The customer is always right… when it comes to marketing, at least.  Do not focus on what you like unless you represent your target market. 

At the end of the day, if you need a new on hold phone message, think about the type of voice actor you need before choosing one for the job.  With a little foresight, you will make the right choice.