Mary Windishar

Who am I? Ok, you're right…I'm Mary Windishar. But this tip of the week is about who you are…as a voice/over talent. Even if you're a seasoned pro…this is a good thing to know.

Why? Because it's key to winning auditions. And repeat business. And it's the key to marketing yourself. And because it will help you avoid a very important mistake: making your voice sound like someone else's. I'll tell you how to find out who you are as a voice actor…but first, listen to the difference between a read that imitates, and a read that evokes. Yes, it's time for another of Aunt Mary's famous war stories…

My client, Lisa, asked me to voice one of her marketing videos. She sent me a script, included a link that I needed to view, and said I should sound like the guy in the spot. Here's that link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXpxhU0UblM

So, I listened, and thought, "I can mimic that guy." He's super hard sell -- that's easy. But when I mentioned it to my client, she said, "Ya…he's conversational." So, here's my first attempt for Lisa. I think I captured his tone well.

But I listened again…and I saw that:

1. I didn't sound good -- the read was too strident.
2. I could do much better if I kept his energy, but added my version of a friendly tone
3. I would only be proud of something that had what I do…a little bit of warmth, and a little bit of sass.

So, what do you think of this?

I also included a 3rd choice for Lisa that was an even softer sell. In the end, she chose the 2nd version. That tells me I made a good call to not be a "poor man's" Toyota announcer, but instead, to add my special "something" to her request.

We hear it over and over…be yourself in v/o. Don't try to make your voice pretty or sound like someone else. And…do inject yourself into every script. But even though you may be very self-possessed outside of voice work, how do you know who you are in this business? Start with these 3 steps.

1. Take praise in! I knew a guy who hated hearing it, and deflected it with humor every time it came his way. But praise is more than positive reinforcement, so listen closely. Those giving it are identifying your gifts, so if you want to know what they are, let those kudos soak right in.
2. Take note of what you enjoy doing the most. If it's easy, it's "you." What isn't easy is accepting your talent -- if you're anything like I used to be, you only value the hard won battles. Get over it! Believe that sometimes it's either easy or it's impossible. That doesn't mean you should strive to learn new skills…but also recognize where you can shine, and exploit it!
3. Notice your vulnerabilities and honor them. If you love animals, let that show up in your voice when you read. If you have a voice that is different than most, find opportunities to showcase that sound. For example, women with a very high voice better hone their character chops…work is just waiting for you out there. This is your sound…make it your trademark!

Bottom line…if you notice the things that come naturally to you and hone them to perfection…you'll know how to be authentic when you do voice work. And that's the foundation upon which you'll build your career…or your empire!!!

PS: More on this topic in an upcoming interview with Elaine Clark, author of the newly revised "There's Money Where Your Mouth Is."