3 Easy Steps to Making your First $100 in Voice Over

[@MyVoiceTMsomecallmetim]

You are absolutley correct about that 1st job. Mine was 5 bucks a year ago.. 5 BUCKS!!! I was ecstatic because I felt accomplished. A couple thousand dollars later and I'm currently building my own office with a whisper room on the 2nd floor of my garage using my VO earnings. My goal is to be doing this full time in 5 years. Excellent info Bill!

[@mafia461]

That's a home run! One can kick start anything and hit it off for free at first and still feel accomplished for that matter because of the passion, and you have plenty of it. Rewards will follow!-Kudos!

[@Timetraveler1111MN]

That’s great. You have gratitude 🙏 ❤ would you give me a few tips to get started?

[@frozencowboy6552]

​@@Timetraveler1111MNlol that was this entire video

[@rayman7712]

Omg! Five years and you’re not doing it full time yet?!? 😞🥺😢

[@TImothyMcCaffrey-hi7qu]

@@rayman7712 Im in year three and growing exponentially while doing it part time. It's a marathon... not a sprint.

[@AmandaBuoni]

Hi! Thanks thanks so much for your encouragement. I took your comments and did a slightly different thing. I contacted a local recording studio directly just for a tour in the off chance that I might need to record there. I included a link to my website with my demos in the email. The owner of the studio emailed me back and said hey I know you just want to tour but I listened to your demos and I have a project that's perfect for you, are you interested? Needless to say I was interested. I'll be recording a voiceover for a video for a new website this week. The best part is it pays like $250 an hour for 2 hours! I am on my way!! This was the first time I solicited my demos. I didn't even ask for a job. I am so grateful!

[@lila2028]

Thank you for bringing us down to earth, Bill. It took me a year to get the courage to start my own business. My boyfriend at the time: "You think you have to be General Motors on order to start your business. Just start with what you have." So I did, and with $880. One year later we had been profiled by CNN, ?U?SA Today and The Wall Street Journal. Not to brag, just to point out it can be done. "Start with what you have". Wisest words I ever heard....or some of them.

[@Movere-mp2cw]

Thank you. I will remember it - start with what you have.

[@lila2028]

Yep.@@Movere-mp2cw

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

I got my yeti mic during black Friday and I use it for my channel. I record my videos in my closet which is carpeted and there are clothes surrounding me. I sit on a yoga ball so I don't have to worry about a squeaky chair 🤣 I've decided to start doing voice over. Thanks for your information!

[@rashmimishra7552]

Wow..🥳. How’s it going?

[@fdcox]

You’re absolutely right about the psychological boost of getting your first paid job. I’m a freelance copywriter, actor and voice talent. When I got my first professional gigs in each of those fields, I knew I was on the right path.

[@marcoalvrz5110]

Just got some equipment set up yesterday and almost immediately started practicing monologues scripts. Wish me luck on a new pet project!

[@what2_watchnext]

Rerecording the demo every week - what a great suggestion - especially for someone first starting out - as someone who is investigating this as a career change I appreciate your insight into the industry and reflections on your experience.

[@lindabelich4852]

I am so glad I found your channel.

[@dalenihiser7766]

What seals the deal that you belong in VO is when you start getting new and larger orders from repeat buyers. For me that was as gratifying if not more so than my first order.

[@yorkipudd1728]

5 computer game VO's at present. Thanks for all the tips Bill!

[@azistephen5013]

Motivated to do my demo now. I've been putting it off for years but, I'm moving in on it now. Thank you! 👍

[@coacharielandersson]

Thank you, as always! Getting started has been fun and daunting.. I accidentally made my 1st $100 with voices. I had forgotten I’d signed up with the free version and then lost my voice, so when they contacted me I was terrified and only had my wireless dji mic! After 3 weeks they accepted my audition, and had already paid me! I had already given up! So.. now.. time for demos and more fun.. my closet has been treated and let’s see what’s next:)!

[@McMilesE]

I'm interested in this story! I am needing to book a session with a coach soon, I am practicing in my own time and I am learning how to edit right now. How in the heck did you land an audition on voices, with no demo or anything I thought that was impossible

[@poeter14]

I just submitted my first audition on ACX. I've always been interested in the VO industry since I was a kid but your video made it clear that there is no harm on getting started

[@RonDoyleVA]

I have a friend who started with his iPhone only, no foam or anything. Now he has better but his first 2K came from his iPhone mic. Crazy.

[@patrickgleason6610]

I've been a pro-level trumpet player for all of my adult life. I'll never forget the first wedding gig I played where I made $75 when I was 17. What a thrill! I'm working to get into this business, and I can't wait to get a booking. Hopefully I can do VO as well as I play trumpet!

[@MayaLShanker]

Same here with violin! Best of luck to you ✨!

[@patrickgleason6610]

@@MayaLShanker Hey! Since I posted that, I've been actively working in VO - I finally constructed a vocal booth in my basement and started to actively seek out getting hired. So far, so good - I've managed to get booked for a number of things over the last month or so, and it's been a joy learning and making money at something that seems to be a lot of fun!

[@echoesofthevoice9570]

Well, the timing for this video couldn't have been better for me. Not long ago, I made the decision to switch careers and go into voice over work full-time, but I still need to make enough money doing that in order to ensure a smooth transition. Thank you so much for the advice!

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

Always love to hear that! Just keep at it. You can do this. Feel free to update me on journey as well. :-)

[@echoesofthevoice9570]

@@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees Thanks for the encouragement! :)

[@amoonstephnus8711]

Nice instructions

[@nealhere]

Thanks for your videos. I wish you great wealth and happiness

[@mafia461]

Like I say, anyone with enough passion can even kick start anything for free at 1st, nail-it, and feel that unparalleled accomplishment because of that one initial ingredient, PASSION, then rewards will follow in perpetuity. -Great success to all !!

[@SouthernChills]

I spent a year recording short stories from Reddit onto a KZbin channel before getting my first job, I felt like I was on top of the world recording my first fiction book but unfortunately I was overwhelmed with ACX standards and ending up biting off more than I could chew. I recorded and recorded only to have my finished work rejected and passed on to another voice over. The same day I was offered a non fiction book about chess. I knew nothing of it but the author liked my voice and delivery so I recorded it, passed the requirements, author approved the book, got offered more titles from the author, even learned a thing or two about chess.

[@armandoc964]

Hay Mr. DeWees just saw and heard your video. Enjoyed the topic since I'm still in the learning phase even though I've been at it for a while. Your advice and info regarding launching a career in VO is on the money. And putting together your first demo. It took me a minute to learn how to record my voice and use an Audio editing program, not to mention searching for royalty free music, converting it into mp3 and drooping it under your recorded voice. Tech, Performance and Business, I've been taking notes. I've learned so much from you. I can't thank you enough for impacting my life in such a positive way. Your are an awesome coach and I enjoy hearing you talk about your experiences and how you did it. A Guiding light that shines in the night. Thank you Mr. DeWees. God Bless you and your family

[@BethBurns68]

Thank you so much, Bill, for helping those of us (me!) who are just starting out. I really appreciate all of your videos and kind generosity of all the great advice.

[@ChristyHodsonVoiceNarrator]

Helpful information. Same information contained in other video clips from same Voice Coach. Very helpful!

[@ruthosornio8299]

Hey, I am so excitingly listening to all this‼️ and reading all these comments oh, I really wish that everyone all of you guys started doing something with your voice😎 make some money‼️ our voices are ours and their unique‼️

[@stuartnorfleet9488]

As NORMAL, Bill, Spot on advice! Most grateful!!

[@mafia461]

Follow Bill's advice & your inner voice, ( no pun ) and get your voice exposed. Kudos

[@Retailleadership]

Great Video Bill! I dabbled in VO decades ago and I'm finding my way back into it. I attended my first training class Sunday and I'm excited about the journey. Also the idea of getting that very first job is exciting. Thanks Bill!

[@Caresa114]

curious how is this going for you now? I'm thinking about starting...

[@petersdailydharma2208]

You make me feel that I can do it. Thanks for the concrete ideas. You're great.

[@subhamdaslovesraptor99]

Where can I undergo training or coaching for voice over? Kindly reply.

[@amberstell7341]

Thank you so, so much for all of your videos! I have been so intimidated by the thought of trying to start a voice acting career and knowing where to even start for so, so long, and hearing you speak about all of it brings so much peace of mind and confidence that I could really do this!! thank you!!!

[@elevateeducation5652]

few days ago ai subscribed your channel but i am addicted to your informative videos thanks

[@MrMoneyclips]

Can I add a bit of practical advice? Acoustic foam is very flammable. Knowledge is safety. Big fan.

[@tdmorgenthaler8384]

I suspect the foam he is using meets flammability standards; more confident in that statement if it came with the whisper room. You are correct; any foam used should clearly state its ratings.

[@MrMoneyclips]

@@tdmorgenthaler8384 of course! But fire safety is a necessary knowledge before undergoing any self-starting business. Exits and extinguishers are things that take minutes to learn and saves your life. Plus smoke is awful for your voice.

[@mylaestrada]

Thank you so much for the encouragement. I needed to hear this. I'm new and didn't know for sure how to get started. I'm grateful I stumbled upon your channel. 🙂

[@Dreamweaver11]

Thank-you so much for sharing your knowledge. I can't wait to get started.

[@creative_expressionproductions]

Thanks for your passion to hel pout the little guy bill!! Here I am 20 years down the road looking to start out on a career that I studie for and have been doing for myself as a hobby! It tough. the grinding away at auditions, the long hours after a full time job. But it is such a passion!! I can't wait for my first break!

[@MarieGrace-o1p]

I appreciate this so much. I have just started my journey and I am in a couple podcast episodes and have done a few lines for a game but all for free. Before I start trying to make money I need a better recording space...so for now I am soaking up the information! So thank you for your channel.

[@tracerx7206]

Thank you for this!!!!!! This is exactly what I needed. You sir are Awesome 👌 👏🏻 👍

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

You're very welcome. Always good to hear my timing is right. Glad you found it helpful!

[@simoncooper8520]

Great information and much appreciated. I haven't started yet but im constantly being told by patients i have a lovely voice so thought lets have a go. So you're information has been great. Thanks

[@johnbrady472]

Thank you, Bill I've been recently exploring a voice career, at 52, being told that I should for 30-plus years. Anyway, enjoying your suggestions very helpful. As a stone Mason looking for a side hustle. Side note We recorded one infomercial parody . Social separation ring on utube in 2020. Wondering about a professionals opinion. Thanks John Brady

[@luigicasiean373]

Bravo! Thank you!

[@ahngele28]

LOVE THIS VIDEO!!!!!!!

[@Krishna-fx8kd]

Yess...absolutely right ✅........Want to continue listening more to your advices.....Where I could b able to send my demo to U??not for earning first...but to know my output in this field ...Tx

[@xpansionteam1537]

Thanks man just putting my website together I've always loved the thought of voice acting you've helped give me the confidence to start. Thanks again.

[@1CurlyB]

So grateful to hear this!!! I started VO early last month. Got my first job in less than 5 days ($54.90) - low, I know. Haven't gotten a second job yet (it'll be 30 days 12/9/21). I listened to an agency on KZbin say that on average, VO talent (even professionals) get 1 job for every 25-50 auditions. I started off pretty strong. I've since submitted 29 auditions - I think you really have to have grit to stay in this profession. No biggy. I have a full time job I've been at for 22.5 years - just trying to find something to do when I retire.

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

That's fantastic! Every little bit counts. Just keep at it. Those who do well in this field have tenacity. Keep me updated! :-)

[@jimwilliams6827]

I am noticing a shotgun mic in this video, but later on, you've got a condenser in the room. When did you switch?

[@FixerInCuba]

Thanks Bill. Very encouraging. I just got that Fifine K670. It’s amazing how well it sounds considering the cost. Cheers

[@cptcosmo]

For a DIY Demo and voice over work in LogicPro, what sort of USB microphone would you recommend?

[@fatmanasir6691]

I'll surely let you know when I land my first gig, let alone creating that DIY dry demo.LOL. I was so worried on the equipment cos of funds. I got here by listening to Nastasia Marquez, she recommended listening to your videos. Thanks for the tips&tricks&encouragement that thre's one person out there who will want to listen&hire me

[@behindtheaudition]

Love all the new episodes Bill! 🎧🎙💪

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

Glad to hear it! :-)

[@holygroove2]

I went through Voicecoaches in Albany NY for my training and demos. They gave great advice that lines up with the advice her. Started grinding in October of 2021, got my first free narration gig (and regular acting gig) in December of 2021, and then my first two paid gigs came in January. I smell that blood...I want moooore!!! LOL. At this point, there's no other options. I want to make money as a voice actor.

[@Tori.spearman2024]

I'm going through then also. Just did my demo waiting for it to come back. I'm getting more and more excited.

[@holygroove2]

@@Tori.spearman2024 I worked with Josh Heller and Tom Robinson. Fantastic people.

[@EdgarHammer847]

@@holygroove2 how's it going so far?

[@holygroove2]

@@EdgarHammer847 I have one repeat client so far, and I am in the process of setting up stuff that I do for fun. I need to step up my direct marketing game, but I'm busy teaching music also.

[@EdgarHammer847]

@@holygroove2 thats great, best wishes to you! How's Voicecoaches fee structure for their services? Are they taking a cut from paying gigs?

[@voiceoverstevehawley585]

Bill - thanks for giving your time to create another great video. You are correct, the feeling I received knowing someone wanted my Voice and was willing to pay ($168) ... Absolutely Awesome! Now - I need #2. I will be calling you or Fred soon to jump onboard if you have room for one more?! Let me know. Its going to be an exciting '22!

[@55Mrcry]

Bill, I have the basic things I need to record voice over but I'm really struggling on a simple software program to use, they all seem to be tailored toward musical instruments so it's over complicated to me, what would you recommend? I'm looking for something some that's maybe like a 4 track...thanks.

[@grassrootspiano]

Real quick newbie here what is a commercial demo?

[@Shannon_Robbie]

Reading commercials and recording it so potential clients can hear what you have to offer! You only need a 1 minute audio demo where you read a few different styles of commercials. Like peaceful quiet one then a more series one then a more fun one and then maybe a louder one. It showcases what you're capable of or your versatility.

[@Musiccafe5890]

I've been hesitant to get started. This video is on point. My 1st hurdle is to learn my equipment. But this video is probably the most helpful. Thanks Bill.

[@just10kredible55]

Bill I’m new to your channel subscription and let me say I was so lost on what to do first as a beginner in this world. Thank you for this guidance. After reading a few scripts and repeating commercials this week, I hope by the weekend I’ll be Comfortable enough to record my firs dry demo!!!! My only question is with a dry demo, how important is the editing, or mixing and mastering on this first run for a beginner?

[@ginalovesjesus1]

Thank you so much for all the important info you share..I appreciate you.

[@qsr369_Gaming]

Love your advices ... Ur the most honest man

[@maryevans4378]

Thank you! Brand new to this, so all of this info is helpful!

[@epicvoicevibes_byblessing2920]

I recently began to develop my voice talent and already considering voice over as one of my career path. I do need thorough training and guide as to creating my visibility and succeeding.

[@kristileonard]

This is exactly what I needed to learn. I’m so thankful to you for sharing your knowledge!!!!

[@surjitsingh5193]

Thanks for the information. Good advice, will follow.

[@Justin.Clark.]

You rock Bill! Thank you for all the great advice!

[@ghausiaqamar3147]

Thank you Bill for the very useful tips in terms of how to get started. I feel so much relaxed now as I was really confused how to go about it.

[@caroleelliott1876]

What kind of mic are you using?

[@EYTSIRHC1]

That’s encouraging. I was discouraged after 8 auditions.

[@DocJS]

Bill, the sound blanket link is no longer active.

[@The72caddyman]

Good info, thank you!

[@psychologyofawinner]

Tommy Vercetti, you are back!!!

[@texast1tan377]

Thank you so much for all the info! incredibly helpful! I'm currently trying to get my foot in the door, as far as voice over, and there are a lot of really helpful tips you have to offer. Question: Is audacity a good recording app to use for VO on fiver?

[@bayouvoiceoversllc7311]

Thank You for all of your tips and training. You are amazing!🙏🏽

[@seekforbetter7550]

Very well bill. I appreciated your time and value you added

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

No problem at all! Appreciate the comment.

[@Miggytunes]

Is there a place to find commercial demo samples to use? I’m a musician and know Logic Pro relatively well. Thousands of dollars with of gear but I’ve maybe put just a tad bit of music out. This line of work might be for me.

[@animan756]

Are you sitting for this? I have a shotgun mic, and you are selling me on using it, your quality is so good.

[@MrGoofinaround]

Totally inspiring video! Thanks Bill!

[@thevictoriaogunremi]

Thank youuuu Bill

[@prathambasava9577]

Can u make a video on which type of copyrighted material to avoid and which material to use for your demo in fiverr etc

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

I recommend Ispot.tv and KZbin to use in your demos. You don't have to worry about copyright because the clips fall under fair use and are being used for demonstration purposes.

[@kensingletary5694]

I'm finally getting my feet wet into the VO business, as im currently in financial services............... I'm available for tips and help on how to be effective

[@FIRSTFRUITSHARVEST2023]

Had a look at upwork platform and it's not even worth the time to join $12, $15 and $20 fixed rate, someone wanted voiceover for his youtibe channel for $15, unbelievable, voices has awesome pay rates . Am turning our spare storage room into a recording space, am going to use 3" rockwool with velcro from the dollarstore 😂, I got a XLR mic , boom with shock protection under $100, interface $80, mic isolation foam, total set up so far under $300 Cad, that's about $125 US😅( JK), anyways , am looking forward to starting and just love your videos

[@kimfromarkansas2084]

Hello, I’m 58 living in Arkansas and everywhere I go ppl tell me that I sound just like Dolly Parton. I’d like to submit a voice over to Dollywood but I have no idea how that would work. I can’t hear it myself, but I have complete strangers tell me that I sound just like her. Thank you for this info

[@wynvalentosh8252]

I have a cisno Bm- 800 with a focusrite Scarlett interface. And my Daw is Ableton. I'm a musician and been looking into doing voice over work.

[@tarekabulleef8304]

Hi I m tarek from Egypt grow up in uk .I m interested in voice over when i go the platforms u menchaned do I Put in application from live in uk And use v.p.n ?

[@keepontruckin5862]

awesome another great video thanks brotha.

[@tarekabulleef8304]

But in voices provide u with a demo I believe a small sample of the voice cover it's self

[@annak3209]

It was very useful and valuable information 😊 thank you, appreciate it so much ❤️

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

Glad to hear that! Appreciate the comment. :-)

[@raiskadeh2278]

How do.i sing up

[@vmtz2001]

Mine was $100 back in 1988. Lol. Adjust for inflation. I wasn’t thinking of VO as a career. It was just a side job. I wasn’t in a large enough market to expect more.

[@maxwellmediainternational]

Excellent information! Thank you 😊

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

You're welcome! Really glad to hear it was helpful.

[@photony]

My first paid gig was $200, and the client has hired me for more. Interestingly, I haven't even made a demo yet.

[@donaldmoore6253]

thanks guy

[@keepontruckin5862]

Another great video thanks brotha.

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

You're welcome! Glad you got a lot out of it.

[@ishkiiastudios-voices]

what is the mic you are using?

[@dontputmeinabox7250]

Bet.

[@mattywillz6143]

Did you build that booth yourself? Do you have a link where I can purchase one that’s already built?

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

This is a WhisperRoom I got off of Craigslist a number of years back. I don't, but I'll look around and add something to my video descriptions. :-)

[@DrRekhasEduGrit]

Thankyou sir 😊

[@ScottBurden117]

Thanks 🙏

[@hornj388]

Hey Bill, I really appreciate all the advice you put on your channel. Is there a forum or group you lead where I could network with other fellow VOs and get feedback on the DUI demo I'm working on? Just want to make sure my reads are ready to market. Thanks in advance!

[@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees]

Hi Joshua! No problem at all. I'm glad to hear that. I have a Facebook group that's very active where you can get that kind of feedback. The link for that will be in the description.

[@hornj388]

@@VoiceCoach-BillDeWees Thank you!

[@stephenflynn7600]

Why are you using a shotgun mic?

[@SwizzleJay]

This is a horrible thing to say - but I was hired to do a VoiceOver for an online story - almost Anime. The writing is so undeniably awful that it takes me [at least] twice as long to complete. I stumble continuously over sentences because the run-ons are atrocious. Any suggestions? I don't want to insult the lady, but as long as it takes me to edit, I feel I'm making $0.25/hour! LOL - Should I just "suck it up, ButterCup?"

[@tw364]

Why other than for monetary benefit are you pitching newbies on spending thousands of dollars in your training program?. Your work is smooth and consistent, I wouldn't categorize it as great or compelling. I've hired national talent for a number of years yet never heard of you. I can see your niche but that would be a difficult path for someone lacking experience. My feeling is your a fantastic marketer and a average plus voice over person. Whether this skill is transferable is the question. You seem to be quite defensive about people that have made big money in voice over. I would love to connect you up in debate with a first-call VO talent I know. He has made millions and lives at the beach. But he is a strong proponent of SAG-AFTRA.

[@princeicio]

What are you saying? It's easy to make money in Voice over?

[@BiCoastalGaming]

I literally just stumbled on voice acting videos in my KZbin rabbit hole and someone pointed me to your channel. I've been complemented on my voice before so I'm thinking of giving it a try. I have a untreated area I do streaming and content creation due to funds and worry it won't be good enough. I have 100's maybe a 1000 and change invested into my audio and t think whats the worst that can happen. I'm a stay at home dad with a special needs child and just looking for something to supplement the family income. Thanks for the videos and encouragement and hope you get the chance to see this.

[@rashmimishra7552]

Best wishes to you Sir 👍🏼and please let us know about the experience.

[@NRG2066]

Kewl ♂️ 🙏