Starting a career as a voice actor from a completely different field can give you an unexpected advantage. Many people assume you need a background in acting or media to succeed as a voice actor, but nothing could be further from the truth. Your unique expertise might be exactly what sets you apart in a competitive market.
Your Background Makes You Unique
Every voice actor brings something special to the table, and a background in another industry can offer the authenticity and expertise clients are looking for. Take my good friend Anne Cloud, for example. Before becoming a voice actor, she worked as a midwife, helping deliver babies.
This experience gave her an in-depth understanding of the medical world, which she can now use to voice medical e-learning projects. Medical scripts often include complex jargon that can overwhelm many voice actors, but for someone like Anne, with her background, it’s much easier to handle.
Why Clients Choose a Voice-Over Actor With Unique Background
The same applies to other technical backgrounds. Imagine you were an engineer. You understand technical terminology and processes that might be a mystery to others. Your knowledge makes you the ideal choice for clients needing technical manuals, e-learning modules, or product demonstrations. Clients often seek a voice that not only sounds great but also understands the content. If you have that knowledge, it provides immense value—and allows you to work more efficiently than other voice actors.
How to Leverage Your Background
By using your background strategically, you can position yourself as the go-to voice for a specific niche. Ask yourself:
• What knowledge or skills have I gained from my previous career?
• How can I apply them in the voice-over world?
• What specific niche can I serve with my expertise?
The more unique your profile, the easier it is for clients to remember you. “I need a voice actor who understands medical terminology—I’ll call Anne Cloud.” Or, “I need a technical voice-over. That engineer voice actor is perfect!”
The Secret Weapon of New Voice Actors
The beauty of starting a new career in voice-over is that you don’t start from scratch. You bring your previous experience and skills with you, building upon them. It’s a strength, not a limitation. So, if you’re considering transitioning to voice acting, take a close look at what makes you a unique voice actor. Your story, expertise, and background might be exactly what a client is looking for.
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