Common Mistakes New Voice Actors Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Starting a career in voice-over can be exciting, but beginners often fall into common traps that can hinder their progress. Learning what to avoid can help you grow faster and achieve success in the industry. Here are the most frequent mistakes new voice actors make—and how to avoid them.

1. NEGLECTING PROPER TRAINING

Mistake: Thinking a "good voice" is enough.

Many beginners believe that having a naturally pleasant voice is all it takes to succeed. However, voice acting requires technique, acting skills, and vocal control.

How to Avoid It:

Invest in voice-over coaching or online courses.
Practice different styles of voice work to expand your range.
Study breathing techniques and vocal exercises to improve control.

2. USING THE WRONG EQUIPMENT

Mistake: Recording with a low-quality microphone.

Poor audio quality can make even the best performances sound unprofessional, leading clients to pass on your work.

How to Avoid It:

Invest in a quality microphone (such as the Audio-Technica AT2020 or Rode NT1).
Use a pop filter to reduce plosive sounds.
Set up a quiet, acoustically treated recording space.

3. POOR MIC TECHNIQUE

Mistake: Speaking too close or too far from the microphone.

Incorrect mic placement can lead to distorted, muffled, or weak recordings.

How to Avoid It:

Maintain a consistent distance (typically 6-12 inches) from the microphone.
Speak slightly off-axis to reduce plosive sounds.
Experiment with mic positioning to find the best sound for your voice.

4. IGNORING SCRIPT PREPARATION

Mistake: Rushing through scripts without understanding them.

Reading without preparation can result in flat, uninspired performances.

How to Avoid It:

Read scripts multiple times to understand tone and pacing.
Mark important pauses, emotions, and inflections before recording.
Record practice runs and adjust based on playback.

5. OVERLOOKING VOCAL HEALTH

Mistake: Straining your voice and ignoring vocal care.

Without proper care, vocal strain can lead to long-term damage.

How to Avoid It:

Stay hydrated and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol.
Warm up with vocal exercises before recording.
Take breaks to rest your voice, especially after long sessions.

6. NOT MARKETING YOURSELF

Mistake: Expecting work to come without promotion.

Even talented voice actors struggle without proper marketing.

How to Avoid It:

Build a professional website showcasing your demos.
Use social media and networking to connect with industry professionals.
Join freelance platforms like Voices.com, Fiverr, and Upwork.

7. PRICING TOO LOW (OR TOO HIGH)

Mistake: Charging rates that are too low or too high for your experience level.

Underpricing undervalues your work, while overpricing may push clients away.

How to Avoid It:

Research industry-standard rates on sites like GVAA Rate Guide.
Start with competitive pricing and adjust as you gain experience.
Avoid working for free unless it's a strategic career move.

8. NOT TAKING DIRECTION WELL

Mistake: Ignoring client feedback or being resistant to changes.

Clients may have specific visions, and failing to adapt can cost you jobs.

How to Avoid It:

Listen carefully and be open to constructive criticism.
Ask clarifying questions if feedback is unclear.
Record multiple takes with different variations to provide options.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Avoiding these common mistakes can set you on the right path toward a successful voice-over career. Focus on continuous learning, invest in quality equipment, and develop a strong marketing strategy. With persistence and professionalism, you’ll increase your chances of standing out and securing more opportunities in the competitive world of voice acting.