“Breaking Into Voiceover: The Truth You Need to Hear”

The Truth About Breaking Into Voiceover: Let’s Talk

Listen, mate, we need to talk. I know you’re out there, trying to figure this voiceover game out, asking yourself questions like, “How do I join a company?” or “What’s the success rate of a place like SAVOA?” These are good questions—valid questions—but they’re not the right questions. Let me explain.

This email landed in my inbox: polite, vulnerable, full of hope. Someone trying to break into the industry, unsure where to start, unsure if they even can start, given how competitive this space is. Eight years of trying, hurdles at every turn, and still no clear path. Sound familiar?

If you’re nodding your head right now, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: it’s not about joining something like SAVOA or any other voiceover network. It’s about you. Your strategy. Your commitment. Your willingness to put in the work every single day.

 

The Hard Truth About Success Rates

Someone asked, “What’s the success rate of SAVOA or similar organizations?” My answer: it depends. It depends on how hard you work, how willing you are to learn, adapt, and hustle. If you’re looking for numbers, here’s a reality check:

• In voiceover, the 80/20 rule is real. 100 artists may be listed on a roster, but 20% of them are booking jobs regularly. Why? Because they’re putting in the work.

• Some voice artists haven’t booked a job in three years. It’s not because they’re bad—it’s because they’re not doing the full job. Voiceover isn’t just recording; it’s marketing yourself, building a brand, and staying ahead of the game.

And being in South Africa? Let’s be real. The industry has its dynamics. The black voice is hugely in demand right now. If you’re a white voice, you’ve got to be exceptionally good. And there are incredible white voices out there—look at the top five dominating the airwaves. I’m one of them, and that’s why I teach this stuff.

 

What You Really Need to Succeed

There’s no magic application process. There’s no secret handshake that gets you in. What I can offer is guidance, but here’s the truth: success depends on how hard you work and how willing you are to follow through.

Here’s what it takes:

1. A Killer Demo: If you don’t already have one, you’re not ready for representation. That’s just the truth.

2. A Comprehensive Strategy: It’s not just about having the talent—it’s about marketing yourself, building a website, showing up on social media, and being clever about how you use platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

3. Training: One hour online and one hour in the studio won’t cut it if you’re not committed to learning every aspect of this craft. That’s why VOISA offers comprehensive packages, but they’re not cheap—because they’re built for people who are ready to go all in.

 

It Can Feel Like a Desert

Let me tell you something funny. I actually wrote about this exact feeling in a blog post this morning. The voiceover industry can feel like a desert—dry, isolating, and filled with mirages that disappear when you get close. It’s hard, but it’s not impossible.

So here’s what I’d say to you: stop wandering. Start working. Go check out my blog, “Wandering the Desert of Voiceover Dreams.” It’s like the stars aligned, and this moment was meant to be.

Because here’s the truth: the voiceover industry isn’t going to come to you. But if you’re willing to chase it, fight for it, and work for it, you can make it.

Let’s talk more if you’re serious.

Warm regards,

Craig Ross