How to Give Constructive Voice-Over Feedback That Motivates and Gets Results

If you’re reading this, you've probably realised that giving feedback to voice-over talent is a skill that surprisingly few people master effectively in audio production and other creative industries. Perhaps you've spent hours listening to recordings, internally wincing, wondering how to politely ask your voice actor to sound "less robotic" without causing offence.

Here’s a straightforward guide on how to deliver constructive voice-over feedback that genuinely motivates talent and achieves better results.

Be Specific – Really Specific

Ever told a voice actor, "Can you just do it differently?" It's not particularly helpful. Feedback should be detailed and clear. Rather than saying, "Can it sound warmer?" try something specific like, "Could you slow down slightly, drop your pitch a bit, and imagine you're speaking to a close friend rather than an audience?" Precise instructions save time, reduce frustration, and enhance the final outcome.

Watch this video to see exactly why clarity in direction can make all the difference. It might make you chuckle too.

The Complement Sandwich Still Has Value

The compliment sandwich (positive-criticism-positive) might feel clichéd, but it's effective. Actors are human, and humans respond well to encouragement.

Use genuine, specific praise: "Your energy in the second half was excellent," followed by constructive criticism: "However, the first half needs a bit less enthusiasm. More conversational than theatrical." Conclude with encouragement: "Keep the pacing consistent, and we'll be on target."

Content Is King

Clear context is crucial. Simply stating "sound professional" isn’t enough. Always provide a clear scenario:

• Who is the actor speaking to?

• What's the emotional tone?

• What is the objective of the script?

For example, "Imagine you're calmly explaining a new policy to your grandmother. Be reassuring, clear, and patient." This guidance is significantly more effective than vague descriptions.

Allow Creative Space But Be Ready to Guide

Voice-over artists bring creativity and individuality to their performances. Give them space to interpret the script uniquely. You might be pleasantly surprised by their contributions.

However, if their interpretation strays from your intended direction, gently steer them back: "That's an interesting angle; let's try another take that's more aligned with X."

Use Realistic References 

References can help, but be realistic. Asking someone to deliver a Morgan Freeman-style read usually sets them up for failure – unless, of course, you've actually hired Morgan Freeman.

Provide achievable references, like, "We're aiming for the natural charm and conversational style similar to David Tennant narrating a documentary." Realistic comparisons enhance clarity without causing frustration.

Choose Language Carefully

Avoid vague adjectives like "engaging," "inspirational," or "dynamic." Instead, offer concrete, actionable advice. Replace "dynamic" with specifics like, "raise your pitch slightly at the start of each sentence for excitement."

Clear, descriptive language speeds up sessions and guarantees better performances.

Avoid Micromanagement

Micromanaging every inflexion can undermine your talent’s confidence. Trust the professional you've hired to deliver a quality performance. Focus on significant issues rather than minor details that can stifle creativity and slow progress.

Provide Timely Feedback

Delayed feedback can confuse or frustrate voice-over artists. Prompt feedback helps keep the session moving and maintains clarity and enthusiasm. Giving feedback during or immediately after the recording session is most effective for productivity and morale.

Check Your Ego at the Door

Feedback sessions should be collaborative, not confrontational. Approach voice-over artists as partners working towards the same goal. Maintaining this perspective fosters a productive and positive environment, ultimately producing better results.

Finish Positively

End each session on a positive note. A simple, sincere "Great work today, thank you" boosts morale, making future sessions more productive and enjoyable.

How We Support Our Artists at OutSpoken Voices

At OutSpoken Voices, we support our artists by working closely with experienced voice coaches and casting directors who offer training and guidance. We’re also here to provide practical advice whenever our artists need it, as navigating the voice-over industry can sometimes feel complicated. This straightforward support helps our artists stay motivated, confident, and consistently able to deliver high-quality performances.

Final Thoughts 

Giving effective feedback is crucial for achieving outstanding voice-over results. Clear, actionable communication improves individual sessions and builds better professional relationships over time.

Your voice-over talent wants to succeed just as much as you do. With clear, supportive feedback, you’ll consistently achieve exceptional outcomes.

And remember, unless you're working with Morgan Freeman, avoid setting unrealistic expectations.

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May 11th at 12:00am