Today we’re talking VO agent tips! Below you’ll find a tip for a BEGINNER and one for those ADVANCED.
BEGINNER
For self-booked work, how do you know what voice over rates to charge?
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This is called the GVAA Rate Guide. These are the non-union industry standard rates. They have it broken by category. You should never offer one flat rate for every type of VO (ex: per word charge).
If rates still feel overwhelming to you, consider joining our VO Mentorship Membership. If you get confused when asked a rate, just post your question to our private group chat.
ADVANCED
If your EXPERIENCE, STUDIO QUALITY and SKILL SET have increased, it would be a good time to think about increasing your rates with self-procured clients.
Here are some things to keep in mind when increasing your rates:
- Give clients 30-60 day notice before raising your rates
- If it’s a really long-term client, you can consider extending the time the rate will increase or grandfathering them in.
- Explain why you’re increasing your rates (ie, give specifics to how your experience has increased, studio quality/engineering and skill sets have improved).
You could also add, “CLIENT X, I would love to continue providing you with the quick turnaround, high quality recording and dependable voice over.” This way they are gently reminded of the value you bring them.
It’s our responsibility as voice actors (and small business owners) to communicate clearly and specifically the value the client is receiving from the rate expected. The better you’re able to communicate this, the higher pay you’ll demand.
