Where Can I Find Voiceover Work That I Can Do From Home?
Since the pandemic, the idea of working from home has been more inviting to people. If you have the technology to make a living without leaving the house, it may be tempting to wake up whenever you work in your pajamas and have a furry friend next to you.
A voiceover career is one that you can definitely pursue while working from home. As long as you have a competent computer, editing software, a good mic, and soundproofing, you can land some good gigs without traveling to a professional recording studio.
We have several articles on how to build your home studio. Once you have a studio, you may be asking, “Now what?” Let’s look at where you can find gigs.
Freelancing Sites
A good start is to look at gig-based websites. These sites work well as a starting point and can be useful if you want to find jobs that fit your schedule.
If you’re new to voice acting, you can also find plenty of gigs that don’t require much experience. As long as you have samples and can write a good cover letter, you may be able to land a gig. Of course, the drawback to these gigs is that many aren’t the best-paying. However, the belief that only the lowest clients are on freelancing sites is outdated. Many bigger names are on these platforms, and if you can land a job with them, you may land a long-term, lucrative gig.
Another benefit of freelancing sites is that they offer protection. When you’re new to the field, there will be many who try to take advantage of you, either through unreasonable demands or by scamming you altogether. Many freelancing sites will use an escrow-based system, where someone can step in if any issues are getting paid.
Of course, a disadvantage of a system like this is that you will be charged a service fee, which can depend on what site you use. Some people won’t mind, others may want to go fully independent to avoid any fees. Not to mention, some of these websites are now charging money for you even to apply!
Pros
• Freelancing sites offer flexibility.
• You don’t need experience to land a job on these sites.
• Bigger names may be on freelancing sites, too.
• Escrow protections mean you can earn the money you deserve.
Cons
• Many gigs on these sites are low-quality.
• Service fees can be frustrating.
• They are highly competitive.
Social Media
Social media websites are for more than entertainment. You can find many pages, accounts, and communities dedicated to posting available jobs. Not only can you find jobs, but you can also connect with other voice actors and folks in the industry.
Social media also makes it easier for you to be the first. You can follow an account that posts the newest casting calls and then set your notifications so that you will be told whenever they upload next. With any opportunity, time is of the essence!
Of course, social media has its share of problems. First, their jobs sections are usually poorly regulated. There are plenty of scammers on these sites looking to take advantage of desperate voice talents. Always research the client before sharing any information. If they refuse to tell you more about themselves, are vague with their descriptions, or demand you give information you’re not comfortable with giving, there’s a good chance that you may be face to face with a scammer.
Another disadvantage of social media is that it can be highly toxic. Instead of looking for jobs, you may get sucked into the latest voice acting drama, or you may run into toxic folks who have unwarranted opinions about your performances. If you’re on social media, it’s crucial to set certain times that you can be on these websites and to avoid anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable.
Pros
• The ability to connect with a community.
• It’s easy to follow industries and job postings and then be the first to apply.
• Uploading a portfolio is simple.
Cons
• Social media can be toxic.
• It’s a time-waster.
• Some jobs on there are scams.
Online Voice Casting Websites
Finally, we have online voice-casting websites. These sites are dedicated to connecting voice talents with clients. This is in contrast to freelance sites and social media, which have a variety of other jobs that you may not be interested in.
Online voice casting websites like The Voice Realm also have the voice actor’s concerns in mind. Freelancing sites are often accused of not being there for the freelancer, either by throwing in unnecessary fees to apply to jobs or not siding with them during a dispute. However, online voice casting websites have the actors’ back, bringing them trustworthy clients willing to pay a reasonable amount for their talents. Plus, they have many resources to help newcomers and veterans alike land more gigs, perfect their crafts, and inform them of the latest happenings in the voice actor world.
While these sites can be great for finding jobs, they can also be competitive. So, let your best voice be heard and optimize your profile to look enticing to the type of client you want.
Pros
• High-quality jobs.
• It does what’s best for the actor.
• Often has resources to help voice actors find their full potential.
Cons
• It can be highly competitive.
Other Places to Find Gigs
Besides these three choices, you can also look at other websites. For example, the online classifieds, or on a studio’s website itself. Or, you can build your own website, SEO optimize it, and bring in clients that way. However, this method takes a lot of time and resources, but it is very rewarding.
Ideally, you should have a presence on all of the above, as this can increase your chances. No matter which platform you’re on, however, put your best foot forward. Use clear samples, present a killer cover letter, and never sell yourself short.
