Voices November

Hey Audio Citizen!

Guess what? “Voices November” is here!
Throughout November, we’re going to celebrate voice artists and center voice work. You are going to hear from both experienced artists and those just starting out. You’ll be informed, entertained and inspired.

Can voice work be a full time job? What are some of the challenges voice artists experience and how do they overcome them?……….These are just but a few of the many questions we’ll explore this month. So, stay tuned!

Meet Voice Over Artist, Lizzie Jobling

When and how did you get into voice work? (also share what areas of voice work you specialize in).

I got into VO work around 7 years ago, after being told that I had a knack for ‘doing voices’ (like many of us are told I guess!)

I spent a year training in various studios and with various coaches in London and beyond. During this time, I was still working my full time job in social work. 

I saved up around 6 months salary, and once I had recorded my demo reels, I quit my job, focused all my energy on marketing and putting myself out there!

Each year the tides change with where my voice is most used. Some years it’s been really corporate heavy, then other years TV and Radio commercials have taken over! (my favourite!) 

This year I have had a really nice mix of a bit of everything! Having said that, I really don’t dabble in Audiobooks and/or Gaming. I think it’s imperative that each VO knows their skill set! Character voices aren't really my thing.

In between the voicing, coaching keeps me busy. After around 4 years of full-time voicing, I created the ‘Voice Over Foundations Course’. I enjoy the connection it gives me when VO can be quite a lone career.

How do you stay the course during low seasons?

What’s your most memorable experience as a voice artist? And Why?

My most memorable moment was when I popped into town to do a bit of shopping one Friday afternoon. I had gone into 3 shops where I had voiced the in store messages, then on my way home I heard myself on a radio ad I had done. The day was topped off by one of my TV ads playing later that evening. This was fairly early on in my career. It was at that moment that I knew I had found not only something that I loved but that I knew I was good at.

See more samples here

Most unpleasant experience🤔

My most unpleasant experience came during one of my first directed sessions where I had been cast for a FIFA ad. There were 10+ people on the call. I was extremely nervous, and made more so when it became apparent that I had been totally miscast and shouldn't have been put forward, let alone chosen. The agency that got me the job tried to make it seem that somehow it was my mistake so as to not look stupid in front of the client! It was all very awkward. Needless to say, the session was cut short and I didn't voice the campaign!

You often share about your experience navigating the space as a neurodivergent person, what are some of the accommodations  you’d recommend?

One of the benefits of being a freelancer when you are neurodivergent is that you can work at your own pace, set your own hours and in general be your own boss. This is hugely helpful! However, this can also be the downside. If I get super super busy I can feel overwhelmed. If I become overwhelmed, there's no one else that can pick up the slack for me. If something happens in my personal life and it affects my ability to work, there's only me to bring in the money. It’s a catch 22. 

What would you say to someone who’s just starting out? 

For anyone just starting out, I always always always recommend coaching. Whether that be with someone like myself who teaches about the business side, or a vocal coach to help you get up to scratch to record your reels. You can’t start any new venture or business without investing in yourself first. 

Noticeboard