Believe in Your Voice (and in yourself!)
Starting a voice over career is exciting, terrifying, and full of uncertainty. I remember when I first began, questioning if I had made the right choice, wondering if I could really make it. Looking back, I realize that fear was part of the process. If you’re stepping into the unknown world of voice over, know this—you are not alone. Your journey will have challenges, but it will also be filled with growth, creativity, and success. Today, I want to share some words of encouragement for both newcomers and seasoned professionals who need a reminder that their voice matters.
The Power of Imagination and Possibility
Every artist starts with a dream, a vision of what could be. The most successful people in any industry aren’t necessarily the most talented, but the ones who dare to imagine a future where they thrive. Fresh talent brings something valuable—enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and the belief that anything is possible. But all too often, naysayers try to crush that light before it has a chance to shine.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” – Albert Einstein
You will encounter people who doubt you, who say voice over is too competitive, who claim you must follow one rigid path to success. Don’t listen. Innovation happens when people challenge the norm. If you have a passion for voice over, hold onto that. Your journey is yours to create.
Encouragement for Industry Veterans
For those of us who have been in this industry for a while, let’s take a moment to remember what it felt like to be new. The excitement. The nerves. The overwhelming amount of information to absorb. We didn’t know what we didn’t know, and yet, we kept going.
“Every artist was first an amateur.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
New talent will always have questions—often the same ones we asked when we started. It can be tempting to respond with frustration or tough love, but let’s not forget that our words have power. A harsh response can discourage someone from pursuing their dream, while a kind word can give them the confidence to keep going.
We all had mentors and supporters who helped us along the way. Let’s pay that forward by being the kind of industry veterans who lift others up, not tear them down.
Embracing Mistakes as Part of the Journey
Mistakes are not the enemy. In fact, they are necessary for growth. Every time you take a chance—whether it’s in your performance, your marketing, or your business strategy—you will learn something valuable.
Will you get everything right the first time? No. But neither did anyone else. The most successful voice actors are the ones who aren’t afraid to make bold choices, to try and fail and try again. Growth comes from experimentation, and perfection is an illusion.
If you’re afraid to start because you don’t feel “ready,” I’ll let you in on a secret—no one ever feels 100% ready. The best way to learn is by doing. So, step into the booth, submit that audition, reach out to that potential client. Take action, even if it scares you.
The Importance of Art in Our World
Voice over is more than just a job—it’s an art form. And art has the power to connect, to heal, to inspire. In a world that often feels divided, storytelling has never been more important. Every voice over, no matter how small, contributes to something bigger. Whether you’re narrating an audiobook, voicing a commercial, or performing a character in an animation, you are bringing words to life in a way that only you can.
“To practice any art, no matter how well or how badly, is a way to make your soul grow, for heaven’s sake. So do it.” – Kurt Vonnegut
We need more artists in the world. More perspectives, more voices, more creativity. If you have something to say, say it. The world will be a better place because of it.
Breaking the Rules and Finding Your Own Path
There is no single path to success in voice over. Some people build their careers through agents, others through direct marketing. Some specialize in one genre, others work across many. The key is to find what works for YOU. Don’t be afraid to try new things, to explore different avenues, to challenge industry norms. Some people will criticize you no matter what you do—so you might as well do what feels right for you.
“Do what you feel in your heart to be right, for you’ll be criticized anyway. You’ll be damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
Enjoy Your Journey as a Voice Actor
The voice over industry is always evolving, and that’s a good thing. Change brings opportunity. New talent brings fresh energy. Innovation keeps us moving forward. If you’re just starting out, don’t wait for permission. The industry is big enough for everyone, and your voice has value. If you’ve been in the business for a while, remember the power of encouragement.
We all started somewhere. Believe in yourself, trust your voice, and keep moving forward. The world needs more storytellers. The world needs you.
Thanks for reading - Anne
Work with Anne
Anne Ganguzza is a Voice Actor, Coach, Influencer, and award-winning Podcaster & Demo Producer. based in Southern California.
