Breaking Into the Voice-Over Industry: How Technology is Lowering the Barrier to Entry.
- CSMcreative
- Jan 4
- 4 min read
For years, breaking into voice-over seemed like an elusive dream—reserved for those who had access to top studios, major networks, and, frankly, connections. But now, in the age of the gig economy, platforms like Fiverr, Voice123, and Voices.com have torn down the barriers. All you need to get started is a microphone, a quiet room, and the hustle to make yourself heard. The rise of these online platforms has democratized voice-over work, allowing talent from all over the world to showcase their skills and build a career one gig at a time.
Starting at the bottom of the ladder in the gig economy may not sound glamorous, but it's a launchpad for many successful careers. Take Fiverr, for example—a platform often seen as the first step for those testing the waters of voice-over. Many pros began by offering their services at bargain-basement prices, only to build up a portfolio and expand into higher-paying platforms like Voice123 and Voices.com. By consistently honing their craft, learning how to market themselves, and adapting to client feedback, voice-over artists can break free from entry-level gigs and land lucrative contracts with big-name clients.
One such success story is Australian actor and voice-over artist Chris Miller. Starting from scratch on Fiverr, Chris sold his first voice-over for $5. With an unexpected $10 tip and an entrepreneurial spirit, he gradually raised his rates, expanded his reach, and ultimately built a booming voice-over business. Fast forward four years, and Chris has landed a major job for IBM, proving that starting small in the digital age doesn’t mean you can’t go big. Today, Chris balances his voice-over work with his acting career, creating a model for how tech-savvy actors can diversify their income. So how did he do it? Let’s hear it from the man himself.
Interview with Chris Miller
1. Book Club Audio: Chris, can you tell us what made you take the leap from acting into voice-over, and why Fiverr of all places?
Chris Miller: It was all about survival at first. Acting gigs were drying up, and I needed another way to stay creative while paying the bills. Fiverr seemed like an easy entry point—no fancy agents required, just me, my mic, and a bit of know-how. My first gig was a $5 job, and when I got a $10 tip, I thought, "Hey, this could actually work!"
2. Book Club Audio: How did you go from Fiverr to landing those bigger jobs on platforms like Voices.com and eventually real-life clients?
Chris Miller: I raised my prices slowly, with each job. As I built up my reviews and gained more confidence, I expanded onto platforms like Voices.com and Voice123. I realized pretty quickly that it’s all about how you market yourself and your range. By the time I started landing bigger jobs, like the one for IBM, I had already built a strong foundation. And that $5 gig? It was key to getting there.
3. Book Club Audio: What’s been the most surprising part of building your voice-over business?
Chris Miller: Working from home in my boxer shorts and a blue singlet is pretty great. But the most surprising part is how quickly things can grow once you hit your stride. You start small, and then, out of nowhere, a big company reaches out. It’s very satisfying to see that growth happen right in front of your eyes. And it still blows my mind how tech has made it all possible.
4. Book Club Audio: You’ve made the leap from small gigs to corporate clients. What’s the key to scaling your voice-over business?
Chris Miller: Professionalism. I know, I just said I work in my boxers, but when it comes to clients, you have to be sharp. Deliver on time, know your worth, and keep learning. I invested in better equipment as I went along, learned audio editing, and polished my business skills. It’s not just about the voice—it’s about being someone clients want to work with again and again.
5. Book Club Audio: For aspiring voice-over artists who want to follow in your footsteps, what’s your number one piece of advice?
Chris Miller: Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom. That $5 job? It got me here. Take each gig as a chance to learn, and don’t get too hung up on the money at first. Focus on getting better and building relationships. The money will come later. Oh, and always stay humble—clients appreciate a good sense of humor!
Chris Miller’s journey from a $5 gig on Fiverr to landing major corporate contracts shows just how drastically technology has shifted the voice-over landscape. His story is a testament to the hustle and grit it takes to climb the ranks in today’s digital marketplace. Whether you’re an actor looking to supplement your income or a voice artist wanting to grow your business, the key is in persistence, professionalism, and the willingness to embrace new tools and platforms. As Chris has proven, the world of voice-over is wide open for those willing to adapt and grow—and, occasionally, work in their boxer shorts.
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