Use These Voice Over Audition Tips to Help You Stand Out and Get Booked
Auditioning is the backbone of a successful voice over career. The more you do it, the better you get—but how do you make sure your auditions stand out? Casting directors receive hundreds of submissions, and to land the job, you need to be strategic. From understanding the script to delivering an engaging performance, every step counts. Here are five essential tips to help you audition like a pro and increase your chances of getting booked.
1. Read the Instructions—Every Time
It may sound simple, but not following audition instructions is one of the quickest ways to lose a job. Casting specs often include specific slating requirements, file formats, and naming conventions. If you miss a detail, your submission could be tossed out before anyone even listens. Double-check everything before recording and again before sending to ensure you’re meeting every requirement.
2. Read the Entire Script Before Recording
Rushing into the booth without reading the full script is a big mistake. You can’t tell the story if you don’t know the story. Take time to read through the copy out loud before you hit record. This will help you understand the pacing, emotional shifts, and key words to emphasize. Practicing daily out-loud reading will also improve your cold reading skills, making your auditions smoother and more natural.
You can’t tell the story if you don’t know the story—read the full script, understand the message, and deliver it with confidence.
Get Great Audition Tips - Have a Listen:
3. Research the Product or Brand
If the script includes a company or product name, look it up. Understanding who they are and what they do will help you deliver a more authentic read. Watch existing commercials or explainer videos to get a sense of their tone and branding. The more knowledge you have, the more confident and believable your delivery will be.
4. Set the Scene and Engage With It
Who are you in this script? Who are you talking to? Where are you? These are critical questions to ask before recording. Think about the emotion and energy behind your performance, and don’t be afraid to move behind the mic. Engaging physically can help bring more authenticity to your read. Adjust your approach as the scene progresses to keep your performance dynamic and natural.
Rock Your Auditions with Great Audio - Have a Listen:
More at VOBOSS.com
5. Send It and Forget It
Confidence is key when auditioning. Record your best take, submit it, and move on. Many voice actors overanalyze and record dozens of takes, but after a certain point, you lose perspective. Limit yourself to three takes, choose the strongest one, and send it. Don’t waste time waiting for feedback—most of the time, you won’t get any unless you book the job. Keep auditioning, keep improving, and trust in your work.
Keep Improving and Keep Auditioning
Auditioning is an art, and like any skill, it takes practice. Use the voice over audition tips above to focus on the elements you can control—preparation, performance, and professionalism. The more you refine your process, the more confident and effective your auditions will become. Stay consistent, keep learning, and remember: every audition is an opportunity to grow.
Thanks for reading - Anne
Want more voice over equipment & gear recommendations?
Work with Anne
Anne Ganguzza is California-based Voice Actor, Voiceover Coach, and award-winning Director & Producer specializing in target-marketed Voiceover Demo Production.
