Tell me, how’d your Monday begin? Mine kicked off with a phone call that reminded me, once again, so many people believe voiceover is easy. It’s not. Voiceover is not an easy gig.
📞 <Ring ring>
“Hello, this is Caryn!”
“Hi Caryn, my name is Steve…”
From the start, Steve’s tone was friendly and curious. He told me he manages a country club in SWFL and had crossed paths with a few voice actors. When he asked if I was a voice actor, I answered hesitantly: “Yesssss.”
His next question? “So… how easy is it to get into voiceover?” and kept talking.
I paused, exhaled, and then responded with conviction, “I’m gonna stop you right there. It’s not easy to get into. You hustle. Every. Single. Day.”
I’ve had countless conversations like this. Actually, two just this week alone. Well-meaning folks looking for a part-time side hustle, having heard that voiceover is a fun, low-effort gig. But here’s the reality: voiceover is a full-time commitment. It demands resilience, daily dedication, and thick skin.
To his credit, Steve was honest. “Oh, no, not at all,” he said when I asked if voice acting was his dream. “I just heard it was easy to get into.”
That moment hit me. Because I’ve heard it all before – people looking for quick wins, casual money, or fame through a microphone. And while some might sell you the fantasy, I won’t. I’ll give you the facts.
What It Really Takes to Succeed in Voiceover
Steve thought voice actors made $100–$150 per local commercial. So, I gently corrected him, explaining how market size, network affiliation, and usage rights influence rates. You can’t just hop into a booth and cash checks. You invest in:
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A professional studio setup
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Ongoing coaching and performance training
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Voiceover marketing tools
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Acting classes and business knowledge
I didn’t sugarcoat it. I walked him through the hustle – every single day – whether you’re just starting or working with national brands. This industry doesn’t cater to dabblers. It uplifts dreamers with drive.
From Side Chats to Real Insight: The Human Side of the Hustle
We talked for nearly 20 minutes about schools, neighborhoods, family, and more. I wasn’t just answering questions. I was listening, guiding, and sharing a glimpse into a world that many misinterpret.
And here’s the funny twist: I made a new friend.
I didn’t crush his curiosity. Instead, I redirected it with honesty. I reminded him that chasing a dream is beautiful. But you have to want it. Because if you don’t? This career will chew you up.
Voiceover Was My Dream, and I Built It From Zero.
Look, voiceover is not easy. I started with no experience. Just a dream and determination. One of the women Steve mentioned – the one who voiced the Oscars – became my mentor. That’s the full circle. Southwest Florida has been full of top level voice talent, and I’ve learned from legends.
But I did the work.
Some years, voiceover has brought me six figures. Other years? It’s rocky. Feast or famine is real. But I never give up. Why? Because this is my dream.
Why I’m the “Get Off My Lawn” Lady in VO
People like Steve are everywhere, hearing whispers about an “easy gig,” encouraged by online ads selling overnight success. And I get it. Those whispers are tempting.
But here’s my promise: I’ll always tell you the truth.
If you’re not ready to commit fully, then no, you probably won’t make it. If it’s your dream? Then absolutely, I’ll cheer you on. But you must show up. Every. Single. Day.
The Unexpected SEO Win
You know how Steve found me? He Googled “voiceover” and my name popped up. That’s the power of staying consistent, showing up in the digital space, and building a credible brand. That’s years of work paying off.
Final Thought: Stop Selling the Easy Gig Illusion
Again, let’s stop telling people that voiceover is a walk in the park. It’s not. But it is one of the most rewarding, creative, empowering careers out there, if you love it.
So, you want in? Beautiful. Start now. Train. Practice. Show up. But don’t expect shortcuts. And don’t listen to those who try to sell you dreams without the grind. If you’d like to chat, I do offer consultations about how to get in to voiceover. I’m not going to sugarcoat anything, so be ready for honesty. Click here to schedule a session with me. 🙂
Here are some free resources to read and study so you can learn more about voiceover:
I Want to Be a Voice Actor! by Dee Bradley Baker
VO Radio Online – chock full of great advice and help!