If you have a regional accent, should you DITCH it? Or EMBRACE it?
If this question was asked a decade or more ago, I’d have said ditch it. The majority of opportunities were calling for a neutral American accent.
Today, in 2025, that’s not the case anymore.
WHY?
Previously, brands wanted the voiceover to represent the brand. Now, they want the voiceover to sound like a peer to the buyer/customer.
We also now have the ability to target ads geographically.
So does that mean I’m saying EMBRACE it?
Yes and no.
If you ARE able to lose the regional accent, that will open up more opportunities BUT don’t totally ditch it!
In this competitive world of voiceover, you’ve got to be so clear on what sets you apart, and not only embrace it…but exploit it.
Have a thick, southern accent? Become known as THE husky, southern voice. You can still demonstrate that you have a range but when it comes to standing out in competition, it helps to have something distinctive.
If you’re looking for help to reduce a regional accent, we highly recommend Cara Reid.
