Would you agree? Businesses should have the right equipment to do the job, and do the job right. If you’re exploring aspects of how to hire voice talent, you’re in the right place.
When you are hiring a voice talent, there are a few things you might want to take into consideration to ensure you receive a professional product for your web or explainer video, tv or radio commercial, elearning project, phone or message on hold prompts.
Here are a few quick questions to ask about audio equipment and quality when hiring voice talent:
Ask about the equipment they’re using
Are they using a Apple/Mac product, a PC, or their day job work computer because they’ve not yet invested in proper equipment? The latter might not be the best choice.
What kind of microphone do they use?
A USB mic is likely not a good option for broadcast quality sound.
Is their studio treated properly?
LOL I don’t mean, are they nice to their studio. You’ll want to know if it’s acoustically treated properly. Now, don’t rule out those people working in their clothes closet! Some of the best studios are in a closet full of clothes (clothes are great sound absorbers/dampeners).
What DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) do they use?
ProTools, Twisted Wave, Adobe Audition are just a few pro choices. Something like GarageBand might not be the best choice.
IMPORTANT
Give the talent a script, and ask them to audition about a minute of the script, and send you an mp3 or wav file. Listen to the auditions you receive very carefully. You’ll hear the differences in quality of the studio, acoustics, and microphone right away, and can prioritize those with the best sound.
A great voice is half the battle when it comes to hiring the best VoiceOver talent, but you also want to make sure that voice is supported by great software, excellent equipment and tools that support the delivery of the kind of audio that delivers an impact.
If this was helpful, let me know! I am looking forward to giving you more tips on how to hire the best VoiceOver talent.
