Many voice actors focus primarily on their local or national market, but expanding to the international stage can provide a significant career boost. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. How do you effectively navigate time zones, cultural differences, and cross-border payment issues? In this blog, I’ll share practical tips to help you establish your voice acting career on the global stage.
Finding Clients on the International Market as a Voice Actor: Where to Start
To grow internationally, it’s essential to make yourself visible to clients outside your home country. Here are a few tips to get started:
• Social Media: Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram are great tools. You might also consider TikTok. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is fully completed in English, showcasing international projects and stating that you’re available for global assignments.
• Voice-over Platforms and Agents: Research agents, agencies, and voice-over websites where you can register. It’s a time-consuming task, but the payoff is worth it. The more places you’re listed, the easier it will be for potential clients to find you.
• Your Own Website: Optimize your website for international searches. Ensure you have at least an English-language version and implement SEO strategies for global reach.
Cross-Border Payments: What You Need to Know
Handling international payments can be tricky, with exchange rates, transaction fees, and delays to consider. Here’s how to streamline the process:
• Multiple Bank Accounts: I maintain accounts in the United States (Bank of America), Belgium (Belfius), and an international Wise account. This setup allows my clients to pay me in various currencies with ease. Wise is an excellent option if you’re working with clients in the US, UK, EU, and Asia. It’s cost-effective and simplifies currency conversions.
• Contracts Are Key: Always clarify payment terms in your contracts. Even an email can serve as a simple contract. Keep records of all agreements to avoid misunderstandings.
Building Long-Term Relationships
Trust is crucial when working internationally. Developing strong relationships with clients may take longer but often results in repeat work.
• Communicate Regularly: Keep clients informed about your availability.
•Offer Extra Services: Provide creative input or suggest cultural adjustments to scripts when necessary. Clients appreciate a proactive approach.
Why Working Internationally Is Worth the Effort
While it requires additional effort, working internationally can elevate your voice acting career. You’ll expand your client base, acquire new skills, and develop a diverse portfolio. By planning strategically, adapting to cultural differences, and maintaining clear communication, you can succeed in the global voice-over market.
In Belgium, local studios might offer a few hundred euros for recording a commercial, while the actual client pays significantly more for the voice actor’s work. For instance, clients like PepsiCo and Unilever always require a signed contract with the voice actor. If you’ve worked with studios like Raygun or Sonhouse and never signed a contract, it means someone else is signing on your behalf (and likely taking a substantial cut).
That’s why working for the Belgian market through international avenues can be lucrative. You’ll receive the full payment your work deserves.
Conclusion: Succeeding Internationally as a Voice Actor
Focusing on the international market demands adaptability, but it opens doors to opportunities—and income—that might not exist locally. Invest in your marketing, tailor your strategy for different regions, and keep learning. This way, you’ll stand out as a professional and versatile voice actor capable of serving clients worldwide.
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