V.O.F.A.Q. - 9 Do I really need a demo to get work?

Hmmm, I’m going to get in trouble with this one. There are folks out there charging the price of a small car for a 90sec professionally produced demo. Meanwhile, some are winning Oscars with self-produced demos, and others had a buddy engineer theirs. But do you need one? Yes. The real question is, how do you get one that hits the mark without emptying your wallet?

Option 1: Hire a Coach

Ideal for total beginners, this path suits those who aren't yet savvy with recording or discerning good audio. It's a straightforward way to ensure you get something polished, provided you lack audio recording experience.

Option 2: Local Studio, Friend, or Fiverr

A common choice, but tread carefully. Many so-called experts might not grasp what makes a demo stand out in the VO world. Though you'll likely end up with something high-quality, it may not meet industry expectations without your guidance.

Option 3: DIY Demo Production

This is for the pros—those who've logged thousands of hours recording and editing VO. If you're deeply familiar with what works (and what doesn't), creating your own demo can be both fulfilling and cost-effective. It's how many top demo producers started, after all.

Option 4: Hire a Professional VO Demo Producer

These pros are popular for good reasons: they know the industry inside out, stay on top of trends, and understand exactly what clients are looking for. Investing in their services can significantly boost your chances of success, tailoring the demo to showcase your unique talents and fit industry needs.

Budgeting for Your Demo

Dropping over $2K on your first demo might be overkill. Why? The folks reviewing your early work likely won't discern the nuances between a high-end production and a well-crafted DIY project, especially when listening through compressed files or on the go. Aim for quality and relevance without succumbing to the allure of hefty price tags. Text