We know that to do the best job possible on a voice over recording it helps to have direction from the client. That’s why we’re working hard with our clients to educate them on how to give good direction and constructive feedback so you can totally nail their brand voice.

In this article we look at how to work with the client during the session to produce a quality recording.

Before you start the session:

Have a friendly chat with the client about the script and the project. Ask them for as many details as they can give you about the project – including images or music that will be accompanying the voice over. 

They should be able to describe the character you’re portraying, list adjectives to outline the kind of voice they want and highlight key statements/words/phrases in the script they want emphasised.

Practice the script a couple of times, then do a couple of run throughs out loud. Give the client an opportunity to listen to these and provide feedback, especially about the timing and the tone/feeling.

Accepting feedback on your voice over

As a voice over artist, feedback is invaluable to help you hone your craft. We’re encouraging all our clients to give artists solid, constructive feedback during the session. 

Relax and have fun! If you feel like you’re not quite understanding what the client is after ask more questions about what they like about what you have recorded so far. Sometimes there are many cooks stirring the broth and this can make it a bit confusing for you to be clear about what they want! If you’re getting too much direction ask them to give you just a few clear adjectives to get you back on track.

Remember that any constructive feedback is about that particular performance, not you as a person or a performer.

Sometimes you may have an idea of how a script should be read, and your client will disagree. It’s okay to suggest alternatives to see what the client prefers, but remember the client has the final say. You want to make sure they’re happy, because it’s their product your voice is selling.

Suggest doing a 3-5 takes of the crucial line (usually a call-to-action or product tag line at the end of the script). That way, your client will have lots of options for this vital line.

Make friends with the audio engineer

The audio engineer will be able to play back takes so you and the client can hear them again. The client will be able to point out the bits they like, so you can perform more of the same.

Ask if the engineer has any advice or suggestions. They know this industry inside out and often have useful suggestions.

We’ve also created this list of catchy phrases for our clients to use to get a little bit more out of you:

• We’ve got one in the bag. Now let’s try one for fun!
• Let’s do one more for safety
• Let’s try one with a bit more personality
• Let’s try one with more of a smile
• Let’s try one with more vibrancy
• Let’s try one a bit more down to earth
• Let’s try one a bit more guy/girl next door
• Let’s try one with a bit more light and shade
• Let’s do one completely differently to the ones we’ve done
• Let’s try one where we run it together a bit more
• Let’s try one where we break it up a bit more
• Let’s do one your way!

More direction from clients is a good thing. Enter each session feeling confident knowing you can deliver the best results for a client. And have fun!!