If you’ve ever been told you have a great voice or you enjoy storytelling through sound, you might be wondering how to get into voice acting. The good news is that voice acting is one of the most accessible areas of performance; however, it still requires training, technical understanding, and a realistic approach to finding work. This guide breaks down what voice acting actually involves, how to train effectively, and how performers land their first gigs. What Is Voice Acting, Really? Voice actors work across various media, including animation, audiobooks, commercials, video games, radio drama, podcasts, corporate narration, e-learning, and dubbing. Think of iconic voices like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck (voiced by Mel Blanc), Bart Simpson (voiced by Nancy Cartwright), or a more topical one, the Jet2 Holidays advert. These are the creations of brilliant voice actors. Understanding how to get into voice acting starts with recognising that it’s a performance discipline, not just a vocal one. Start with Vocal Training and Warm-Ups Before thinking about auditions or equipment, your voice needs to be healthy, flexible, and reliable. Professional voice actors train their voices in much the same way actors and singers do. Key foundations include: Breath control and support Clear articulation and diction Vocal stamina and range Safe projection without strain Relaxation of the jaw, tongue, and neck Daily warm-ups are essential. Gentle humming, lip trills, sirens, tongue twisters, and breath-focused exercises help prepare your voice for recording sessions and reduce the risk of fatigue or injury. If you’re serious about learning how to get into voice acting, working with a voice coach or training programme is one of the smartest first steps. Learn Mic Technique and Studio Basics One major difference between stage or screen acting and voice acting is the microphone. Mic technique is a skill in its own right. You’ll need to learn: How close to stand to the mic How to manage plosives and sibilance How to control volume and dynamics How to maintain consistency across takes Early on, you don’t need a professional studio. A quiet space, a basic USB microphone, headphones, and simple recording software are enough to practise. As you progress, you can upgrade your setup. Understanding mic technique early helps your performances sound professional, even at the entry level. Build Skills Before Building a Demo Many beginners rush into creating a demo reel too soon. A strong demo should reflect your actual skill level and the type of work you’re ready to audition for. Before recording a demo: Train across different voice styles (commercial, narrative, character) Practise cold reading and script interpretation Learn how to take direction and adjust quickly Record practice scripts and listen back critically When you’re ready, a demo should be short (60–90 seconds), well edited, and focused. One strong demo is better than several unfocused ones. Finding Your First Voice Acting Gigs Once you’re trained and have a demo, you can start exploring entry-level opportunities. Common places new voice actors find work include: Online casting platforms Independent animators and game developers Student films and audio projects Audiobook platforms Theatre, radio, and podcast collaborations Early jobs may be low-paid or unpaid, but they help you build credits, confidence, and experience. Each project teaches you more about performance, workflow, and professionalism. Final Thoughts There’s no single route into voice acting, and many performers arrive from different backgrounds and disciplines. However, building a strong foundation in acting can make a real difference. Training on an acting course helps you develop vocal technique, text interpretation, emotional truth, and professional discipline, all essential skills for voice work across animation, audio, and screen. With structured training, expert guidance, and regular performance practice, courses like our 3-year acting course provide a solid starting point for performers looking to explore voice acting as part of a sustainable, long-term career.