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by Guy Michaels
You’re doing that ‘actor voice’
I’m a trained and experienced theatre actor and this was the lead-in to my voiceover career as it is today. I spent much of the early 2000s touring and living out of a suitcase. Although I was developing a VO career on the side, it wasn’t ‘the thing’ for the first few years of my work in performance.
Having said that, one of my first paid gigs as a performer was a ‘voiceover job’. I don’t remember much about it as it was in late 1999 but there was an important lesson that came from this first tentative step into the world which is now my everyday life.
Conversational style voiceover is not new.
After the first or second take, the director stated, much to my confusion ‘hmmm you sound like an actor…you’re doing that actor voice’.
Now, I didn’t really understand what she meant at the time. I was an actor; a very confident one who prided himself on his ability to reach the back of a thousand-seat auditorium without the aid of a microphone. The penny dropped. She meant that I was too loud, too crisp, too clipped, too projected. The project needed a ‘conversational voiceover’ sound’. That of a human, real, natural and not that actor voice we associate with Simon Callow, Patrick Stewart or Judi Dench.
OK, I get it. But easier said than done. After 4 years of voice work, I then had to tame the volume, reduce the resonance, calm down the clarity and be…human.
These days I’m often asked to deliver in a conversational style but to be honest, I reckon the phrase has just become the go-to direction without much consideration around the purpose or desired impact that the voice should have. Much as there are plenty of voiceover jobs that require a chatty/natural style, there are also those that require a dramatic read and everything in between.
Happy to provide a custom audition
I always feel it’s important to get on the same page as the client, so if you think I might be the right voice, then drop a line and we can check if I’m suited for your project. I’ll also be able to give you a competitive quote and explain my voice over rates.
You can find my demos scattered across the site and organised here: Guy Michaels – British Voice Actor | Male Voice Over Demos (provoiceactor.co.uk)
There are also many examples of my voice in context on my video examples page: British Male Voiceover Video Demos – Guy Michaels – British Voice Actor (provoiceactor.co.uk)
Actor Voice: Why “Real” is the New Standard in Voice Over
The world of voice over is changing. Where once a booming, theatrical “actor voice” was the gold standard, today’s audiences crave authenticity. Now, the most sought-after voice actors are those who can deliver a performance that feels genuine, relatable, and conversational. This shift in demand reflects a broader cultural trend favouring naturalism and a rejection of artificiality. If you’re looking to hire a voice-over artist for your next voice over project, understanding this evolution is crucial to finding the right voice that will resonate with your audience.
The Rise of the Conversational Voice
What exactly constitutes a “conversational voice?” It’s a voice over style that prioritizes authenticity and a real person feel. Think approachable, believable, and warm. It’s the girl next door or the friendly business man having a chat, not a Shakespearean actor delivering a monologue. This style is engaging and fosters a sense of trust, making it ideal for a wide range of projects, from online ads and radio ads to explainer videos and e-learning courses.
So, why are the world’s biggest brands and agencies increasingly seeking out this authentic style rather than sticking with the ‘actor voice’? In an age of social media and instant communication, audiences are bombarded with marketing messages. To cut through the noise, brands need to connect with consumers on a personal level. A conversational voice helps achieve this by creating a sense of intimacy and relatability. When listeners feel like they’re hearing from a real person, they’re more likely to pay attention and be receptive to the message.
The Benefits of Hiring Conversational Voice Actors
The benefits of hiring voice actors online who specialise in conversational delivery are numerous. First and foremost, it increases audience engagement. As opposed to the broadcast feel of the ‘actor voice’, a sincere and authentic voice draws listeners in and keeps them hooked. This translates to a stronger emotional connection with your brand and improved message retention.
Furthermore, a conversational approach enhances brand perception. By using a confident and charismatic voice, you can project an image of trustworthiness and authority. This is particularly important for brands looking to establish themselves as thought leaders or build credibility in their industry.
Another key advantage over the actor voice is the ability to better connect with target demographics. Whether you’re targeting English speaking young adults, middle-aged professionals, or a specific regional audience like the US Midwest – Chicago, a voice actor who can naturally adopt the appropriate tone and style will ensure your message resonates with the intended listeners.
Finally, a conversational delivery enhances the clarity and impact of your message. An articulate and informative voice, combined with the ability to tell a compelling story, ensures that your message is not only heard but also understood and remembered.
Finding the Right Conversational Voice
With the growing demand for conversational voice over work, the task of finding the perfect voice talent can seem daunting.
When browsing through potential voice artists, pay close attention to their demos. Do they sound natural and believable? Do they have the right voice to represent your brand? Consider the specific needs of your voice over project. What kind of tone and style are you looking for? Do you need a spokesperson, a narrator, or an announcer?
Beyond Conversational: The Versatility of Voice
While conversational voice overs are currently in high demand, it’s important to remember that the best voice for your project ultimately depends on its specific nature and objectives. The ‘actor voice’ still has its place. For instance, radio and TV commercials might require a more energetic and dynamic delivery, while a documentary might call for a more authoritative and informative tone.
Whether you need an announcer with a powerful voice, a skilled narrator to guide your audience through a complex topic, or a storyteller to bring your brand’s narrative to life, I can help you today. Or maybe you need that actor voice after all!
The Future of Voice Over and the Enduring Value of Human Connection
The voice over landscape is constantly evolving. The emergence of AI voices has introduced new possibilities and challenges to the industry. However, despite the advancements in technology, the human voice retains its unique power to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
A professional voice actor brings more than just technical skill to a project. They bring empathy, creativity, and an understanding of human emotion that AI voices cannot replicate. Whether it’s the sincere delivery of a homemaker discussing a new product, the luxurious tones of a voice promoting a high-end brand, or the educational expertise of a banker, executive, or instructor explaining financial concepts, the human voice adds a depth and authenticity that resonates with listeners.
Maybe I can help with your Voiceover Casting needs
In today’s media landscape, authenticity reigns supreme. If you want your message to be heard and remembered, choose the best voice over talent who can deliver a performance that feels genuine and relatable. Embrace the power of conversational voice overs and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
I know and work with some of the best voice actors globally. Let me help you find a voice for your next project.