If you’re a voice actor seeking representation, understanding the role of voiceover agencies and how to make yourself stand out is essential. The voiceover industry is competitive, but the right agency partnership can open doors to incredible opportunities. Here’s what you need to know as an aspiring or established talent.
Understanding Voiceover Agencies
Exclusive Agencies
Exclusive agencies focus on a small, curated roster of talent. They negotiate contracts, manage finances, and handle scheduling for their clients. While they often work with more established voice actors, these agencies can be a great option if:
You value exclusivity: They offer premium representation and unique opportunities but may limit you from working with other agencies or clients independently.
You need business support: They often take care of administrative tasks, allowing you to focus on your craft.
You’re ready for high-profile projects: Exclusive agencies typically represent talent for projects with higher budgets and visibility.
Non-Exclusive Agencies
Non-exclusive agencies are much more common for voice actors at the start of their careers. These agencies provide more flexibility, allowing you to work with multiple clients and agencies. These are ideal if:
You’re building your portfolio: They often offer more frequent project opportunities.
You want variety: Non-exclusive representation exposes you to diverse projects across industries.
You prefer independence: You retain control over your schedule and client relationships.
Preparing to Approach an Agency
First impressions matter, and agencies are looking for polished, professional candidates. Here’s how to prepare:
Create an Outstanding Voice Reel
Your voiceover demo reel is your calling card. It’s a professionally recorded showcase of your best work, demonstrating your range and unique qualities. Without one, you won’t even get a foot in the door.
Quality over quantity: A few high-resolution excerpts showcasing your best reads are more impactful than a dozen mediocre clips.
Professional production: Invest in a professionally produced voiceover demo reel, which can cost a few thousand dollars. It’s worth it to make a strong impression, as self-made demo reels will flag you as an amateur.
Tailored content: Focus on scripts that highlight your strengths and align with the types of projects you want to pursue.
Optimize Your Skills
Before creating your demo reel, ensure your voice is in peak condition:
Take coaching sessions: Even experienced actors can benefit from refining their skills with a voice coach.
Learn microphone techniques: Knowing how to work the mic effectively is crucial for delivering high-quality recordings.
Seek feedback: Get professional opinions on what makes your voice stand out and what genres suit you best.
Create a Strong Online Presence
Agents will google you. As a voice actor, your website is your number one marketing tool. It’s often the first place potential clients will go to learn more about you and your work. Creating a professional, informative, and easy-to-navigate website is essential for making a strong impression. Here are the key elements your voiceover website should include:
Your Headshot or Brand Logo: A recent headshot or a logo that reflects your personality and brand. Some voice actors choose not to display photos to let their demos speak for themselves—either approach works as long as it aligns with your personal brand.
Your Demos: Prominently display your demos so potential clients can press play within the first 3-5 seconds of landing on your site. Outstanding demos should be one of the first elements visitors encounter.
Your Bio: A brief, 1-2 paragraph bio that explains who you are, the kind of work you do, and why you’re the right fit for their needs. Focus on how you can help your clients and keep it concise. Expand with a “Read More” link if needed.
Examples of Your Work: Showcase audio or video examples to demonstrate your range and style. Don’t just tell—show your capabilities.
Contact Information: Include a contact form, email address, or phone number prominently on your site. If you have any existing agency representation, ensure their contact information is easy to find as well.
Testimonials: Add testimonials from satisfied clients to build trust and credibility. If linking to completed projects, always secure client permission beforehand.
Navigating the Agency Process
The path to securing an agent can be challenging, but persistence pays off:
Don’t be discouraged by rejection: The industry is competitive, but belief in your talent and continuous improvement will help you stand out.
Ask questions: If you get an interview, inquire about commission rates, contract terms, and the agency’s expectations.
Stay flexible: Representation doesn’t guarantee instant success. Be prepared to seek additional work independently while building your reputation. Your agent only receives 10% to 20% in commissions, so you should be doing 80% - 90% of the hustling in your career!
Tips for Long-Term Success
Maintain your voice: Daily practice and auditioning will keep your voice in top shape for unexpected opportunities.
Keep training: Regular workshops and coaching sessions can enhance your skills and keep you competitive.
Be proactive: Even with an agent, networking and marketing yourself can lead to new opportunities.
Conclusion
Breaking into the voiceover industry through agency representation takes effort, but the rewards can be well worth it. By preparing a stellar voiceover demo reel, honing your craft, and approaching agencies with confidence, you’ll set yourself up for success. The journey may be challenging, but with determination and the right partnerships, your voice can reach new heights.
Top 30 Voiceover Agencies in the USA
1. Abrams Artists Agency
Los Angeles, CA
2. Atlas Talent Agency
New York, NY
3. CESD Talent Agency
Los Angeles, CA
4. DPN Talent
Beverly Hills, CA
5. Innovative Artists
Santa Monica, CA
6. Sutton, Barth & Vennari
Los Angeles, CA
7. TGMD Talent Agency
Los Angeles, CA
8. The Osbrink Agency
Los Angeles, CA
9. William Morris Endeavor (WME)
Beverly Hills, CA
10. VOX, Inc.
Los Angeles, CA
11. AVO Talent
Los Angeles, CA
12. Cunningham Escott Slevin & Doherty (CESD)
Los Angeles, CA
13. Coast to Coast Talent
Group
Los Angeles, CA
14. Stars, The Agency
San Francisco, CA
15. Buchwald
New York, NY
16. Paradigm Talent Agency
Beverly Hills, CA
17. The Voicecaster
Burbank, CA
18. Go Voices
Denver, CO
19. Grossman & Jack Talent
Chicago, IL
20. Arlene Thornton & Associates
Toluca Lake, CA
21. The Talent Group
Pittsburgh, PA
22. The Mine Talent
New York, NY
23. The Krasny Office
New York, NY
24. Kazarian/Measures/Ruskin & Associates
Los Angeles, CA
25. Stewart Talent
New York, NY
26. Voice Talent Productions
New York, NY
27. Big Mouth Talent
Chicago, IL
28. Tag Talent Agency
Austin, TX
29. Sound & Fury
Los Angeles, CA
30. Take 3 Talent Agency
New York, NY
Disclaimer
This list highlights 30 of the top voiceover agencies in the United States that we recommend. However, it is not exhaustive. There are many other reputable agencies, and we encourage voice actors to research and evaluate options based on their unique needs. Additionally, it is the responsibility of the voice actor to verify submission guidelines, contact information, and agency details before reaching out!