Meet JC, Voice Over Professional

JC has been a voice over professional since 2011. His voice over experience has included a range of projects, from explainer videos to ebook narration (small to large) as well as phone scripts, sales videos, elearning, and so much more.

You can hire JC through the freelance platform Fiverr, where to date he has completed over 100 projects with 100% client satisfaction. Learn more by visiting https://www.fiverr.com/jcforyou/record-a-professional-voice-over-up-to-400-words-in-24-hours.

1. How did you first get into doing voice over work?

I started doing voice over in 2011 as I was looking to make extra money. Many people throughout the years have come up to me and told me I had a great radio voice, so I decided, after hearing about Fiverr, to give it a try.

From 2011 to 2015 I dabbled in voice over projects off and on without putting any serious effort into it, and I always received great reviews.

In January 2016, a friend and I were having a conversation, and in so many words or less, my friend told me I should get serious about voice over work as I could build a great reputation for myself. So, I got busy and started working hard at growing my online presence in voice over.

2. What inspired you to choose Fiverr as a platform for offering your voice over services?

The reason I choose Fiverr is I have heard so much about the platform from many other marketers and how it was a great place to buy services for various online tasks. After checking it out, I realized I could be a seller and start voice over projects, and voila here I am. :)

3. In addition to recording voice tracks for videos (which I'm assuming is your most requested service, but please correct me if I'm wrong!), what are some of the types of recordings that you've been hired to do?

So far I have been involved in video voice over projects but this has only been more lately. In the past six months to date, I have been involved in advertising projects, motivational projects (lots of them), spiritual projects, sales page voice overs, and ecourses in teaching people how to learn internet marketing, use online services and use software programs. I have also done phone scripts and acting projects (even though I am not officially a voice actor). I even did a project for the city of Chicago which was amazing, and I have turned eBooks into audio books for various clients (small and large projects).

4. In your opinion, what are some qualities that give a recording a professional feel?

In my opinion, caring about the project is number one. Even if you don't care for the actual content, you need to care about the end result the client is looking for. Learning breathing techniques, and having an excellent quality microphone and setup is also very important to the success of the project.

It's crucial to maintain a professional attitude throughout the project regardless if it is a $5 gig or a $5000 gig; I treat them all with the same quality and always give 150% so every project is a success.

5. How do you approach each individual project to make sure you're capturing what the customer wants in the recording?

I could get the same project from different clients and each client would want a different ending result. That is an example to make a point, as getting the same project from different people doesn't happen, of course. But there are similar projects that people look for, and as I said, they all have different ending results they are looking for, so my commitment on every project is to keep open communication and keep my clients informed throughout the process and ask questions to confirm what they are looking for at certain points in projects (when necessary).

When I am not 100% sure about a voice over project, I will send a part of the project to the client for review so they can give me feedback on whether I am on the right track as I should leave nothing to chance.

The one main thing I offer is unlimited revisions even after the gig is completed and closed. Also, I offer revisions regardless if it is my error or changes they want to make after listening to the project. My clients have been very happy with this added benefit, and just the same I rarely have too many revisions and 99% of the ones I do are due to changes the client makes.

Thanks, JC!

Meet Jack Rochel, President at Epsilon Electronics

Epsilon Electronics Inc is a company that specializes in automotive technology. They sell products like sub woofers, speakers, turntables, and even lighting products. They have been in the industry for over 30 years now. Learn more at epsilon-pro.com.

1. How has Epsilon Electronics grown since it was founded in 1983?

I have been at Epsilon for almost 18 years now and have seen how much we have grown over the years. In 1996, Epsilon Electronics was the second manufacturer in the United States in the automotive video industry. Now, in 2015 we are a top brand in our industry and we sell our products internationally.

2. When I think of car audio equipment, I think of car stereos, but I'm sure that's just the tip of the iceberg. What are some popular products that customers buy to enhance the audio experience in their cars?

The head unit is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to improve a car's sound system. But there are several other options to upgrade your system. For example, changing the speakers in your car is an option that doesn't cost much but can make a huge difference to the sound quality. Adding amplifiers is another option, especially if you like to listen to music at high volumes. An amplifier will allow you to listen to music loud without the sound getting distorted. If you have an amplifier, you can also add subwoofers to listen to lower frequencies. If you like listening to music with heavy-bass, subwoofers are the best option.

3. What options are available when it comes to car video equipment?

Here at Epsilon, we have products with mobile video technology for the passengers and for the driver as well. The products we offer for the passenger are video screens that can be mounted on either the headrest or on the ceiling of the car. For the driver, we have screens that can be used for reverse-parking and some screens that can be mounted on your rear-view mirror as well.

4. Are there other electronic products you carry in addition to those meant for automobiles?

We have a great variety of products. We run as an umbrella company for many brands like Soundstream, PowerAcoustik, Farenheit, and EpsilonPro. With these brands we have products outside the automotive industry including lighting products, DJ products, and video products.

5. How do you hope to see Epsilon Electronics continue to grow over the next few years?

Right now, Epsilon Electronics sells in 55 countries around the globe. We hope to continue expanding our business around the world and to provide the newest technology in our industry.

Thanks, Jack!

Meet Jason Griffith, Audio Engineer and Owner of Vibe Speaker Co

Jason Griffith is the owner of Vibe Speaker Co, a manufacturer of in-ceiling/in-wall speaker systems. Jason's background and education is in audio engineering. He spent many years working in live production/sound reinforcement in Nashville, TN and Orlando, FL before returning to Western KY and getting involved in custom installation/systems integration.

1. What are some of the particular benefits of in-ceiling and in-wall speakers compared to freestanding speakers?

There are several benefits, but I would say that the biggest one for a lot of people is simply aesthetics. Architectural speakers do not take up valuable real estate in your room, and they don't intrude on the decor of a room. The best in-ceiling speakers, with zero-frame grill design, are virtually invisible.

2. How difficult is the installation process for in-ceiling and in-wall speakers?

It's actually very easy. Anyone that's comfortable using some basic hand tools can easily install them in a relatively short amount of time. Our company actually offers full support to our customers during their entire project and will answer any kinds of questions that may arise. We are custom installers ourselves, so we make our years of experience available to anyone that wants the high end audio experience in their home.

3. What inspired you to start Vibe Speaker Co.?

I own a custom installation firm, and I wanted to develop the best speakers made with the absolute best materials for our clients. That process just naturally led to starting Vibe Speaker Co., so that we could share those speakers with a larger group of customers beyond those that we work for locally.

4. What do you like best about your work as an audio engineer?

As a music lover, there's just a certain feeling you get when you can walk around your house and have your favorite music pouring down on you in every room. It can turn a bad day good, and a good day even better. I love being able to share that with people.

5. When you listen to music yourself, what are your must-haves for getting quality sound?

Well, offhand I would say high quality speakers (of course), a high quality amplifier, and the one thing that a lot of people overlook: good quality speaker cable. Some people go cheap and buy thinner gauge wire, but I recommend always using at least 14 gauge wire in any installation. The sound quality difference can be staggering.

Thanks, Jason!

Meet James Sklar, Podcast Host

Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, James Sklar attended Syracuse University, studying Russian, Finance, and Marketing. He has traveled extensively throughout Europe and was the very last individual to walk through Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, Germany. James has lived in San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, but he is now proud to call Western Massachusetts his home. He has always been a great lover of the spoken word medium. James is always listening and is grateful to have the opportunity to be heard.

The James Sklar Show is a podcast which covers a variety of topics, including life in the Berkshires, current events, food, and history. Check out a sample of his show by listening to his belated Father's Day podcast...

1. How did you first get interested in podcasting?

I started listening to podcasts a few years ago. My interest in spoken word begun with The Lost Lennon Tapes which aired in the 80s. The content was riveting. Ever since then, I've been hooked on the medium. Now with podcasts, the joy is listening when and where I want.

2. What are some of the topics you cover on The James Sklar Show, and how do you get your ideas for what to talk about?

My topics come from everyday life, an article, news, or whatever I feel like discussing. Generally, I bounce from one to the other.

3. What do you think that the element of audio adds to a reader/listener's experience, compared to just reading a blog post?

The audio creates an intimate relationship between speaker and listener. Reading a blog post is less engaging. I find that audio adds a sense element which personalizes content, which is key and what separates audio from other mediums.

4. As a listener, what do you personally admire in other podcasts, and what are some of your current favorites to listen to?

Passion and integrity. I listen to The Unexplained with Howard Hughes, since I love the subject matter and his delivery. I listen to Coast to Coast AM, due to the interesting variety of topics they explore. For laughs, I will listen to Doug Benson's Doug Loves Movies, because it's so silly and can be very funny.

5. For someone just getting started in blogging, podcasting, and other online media, what's your best advice?

Just start! It's so easy. My motto is don't talk about it, be about it!

Thanks, James!

How to Find Cheap Transcription Services

As with many services, the cost for transcription can vary greatly. With various forms of digital audio and video technology becoming more and more accessible and widely used, there is a lot of need for affordable transcription services. Some individuals and companies who offer these services will charge by the minute, and others will charge by the hour.

CheapTranscriptionServices.net is a source for cheap transcription which has a very clear website in terms of outlining the services the company offers. They charge by the minute, with different rates according to how quickly you need your work turned around. One benefit of planning ahead is that you can save money on transcription when can be flexible on your turnaround time!

In addition to turnaround time, here are a lot of different factors that can affect the price for transcription services. For example, if a recording includes multiple voices, this can cost more. If the recording is poor, this will cost more as it may require the transcriber to use software to enhance the sound and/or the recording may require extra playbacks. Sometimes a recording uses special terminology which requires professional knowledge to transcribe, which also adds to the cost.

Other common factors which can increase the price of transcription services include: adding time stamps to the transcription which allow a reader to track the text with the original audio/video, transcribing audio when the speaker has an accent, having a foreign language transcribed, and adding text which describes a speaker's movement in a video or gives verbatim transcription of laughter, pauses, and other aspects heard in a recording.

Some cheap transcription services contract their work to India, but CheapTranscriptionServices.net offers services which are based entirely in the US. They also advertise a 99% accuracy rate and money back guarantee. When looking for affordable transcription, they are a great place to start!

Meet Petra Ortiz, Author, Publisher, and Book Trailer Designer

Petra Ortiz is an author and publisher. She creates promotional videos, audio products, and book trailers that entice viewers to take action. She is always studying and working towards improving the value she provides to her clients.

Petra enjoys helping business owners, whether online or offline, gain more happy, loyal, and repeat customers by producing high quality video and audio creations. Find samples of Petra's book trailers on her website as well as on Pinterest.

Below is a slide from a video she produced for a client.

And here is a sample video in its entirety.

1. How did you get started making audio and video products?

Well as far as voice products are concerned--it's funny to me how that started. Ever since my first "job" at 14 yrs young, as an office assistant and all the jobs I've had since then, I've always been the one chosen to record a phone system's greeting message. Each time I asked why I was asked to do it, I'd always receive the SAME simple answer: "because you have a nice voice."

So, I decided I should learn how to record and edit my voice, because I was being asked more and more to read scripts for the videos I was ultimately producing for clients. I have recorded for radio shows, blog posts, promotional videos, book trailers--and am now being chosen for voice acting jobs as well (those are always fun). In my offer's description I mention that my voice works well for clients that are looking for an honest, sincere genuine and happy voice--not necessarily a "salesy" one.

As far as video products are concerned: I love videos; I search YouTube all the time to solve almost any problem I may have. My children learn from YouTube videos as well, and in fact I am starting a "Lego" channel for them soon, because they enjoy building Lego sets. I am so thankful that it is available.

One of the things I enjoy doing is helping other people learn how to do something--it can be anything. Because I love watching videos to learn, I figured I'd better learn how to make my own to teach others. I create videos to provide helpful information. When I look back on things that have happened in my life, and how I got myself out of things--then I shared the information with as many as I could, to help them avoid the same mistakes and mishaps...I understand now how that's basically why I do what I do.

I mostly make videos for myself about a free product or site that I really like and wish to advocate. Other times I am promoting things I love. I'm always happy to receive "thank you's" from viewers. Shortly after making videos for my own needs, I started getting requests to make them for others. And requests to voice the videos. And requests to create tutorial-style videos and so on and so forth. I rather enjoy doing this.

So when I first heard about outsourcing, and Fiverr, and began my search for the best illustrators there for my books--I decided and it seemed like a natural thing, to begin offering my services there too. Traditionally I created products for local clients, and now I can offer my services on a global scale--it's pretty cool! After all, they, like Amazon and other big companies, spend tons of money on generating traffic to the site. And anytime that a business owner can associate him/herself with a site that already spends big money for reliable steady huge traffic, that is a plus in my book.

2. As both an author and a video producer, what particular knowledge and skills do you bring to making book trailers?

For audio products, having a good microphone, a noise-free room or studio, and good audio editing software is essential. It takes time to learn how to use software properly, fully and more importantly efficiently. For making book trailers, understanding how to manipulate music and voice recordings is important.

For the video production, you will need the audio skills I mentioned, and also video editing skills. You will need to know how to use different platforms (and there are tons out there), not just the technical aspects of these platforms, but how to use them creatively, so that your clients will get great feedback on your work, and that increases the chances for more sales for the client, plus that the video will be shared with others. This means more "word of mouth" advertising for the author, working 24/7 in his/her favor. This also means more referrals for the video producer.

Having these skills, plus experience in writing scripts, generating traffic, and writing and publishing ebooks, paperbacks and audio books helps me to understand more what my client's needs and wants are. Which means I can help to create something enticing for him/her. And that is what this is all about: enticing the viewer/reader to get them to take action. (By the end of reading this entire post, are you ready to take action and create your next book trailer?)

3. How do book trailers help authors (in other words, why does an author need a book trailer)?

There are tons of books produced every year. Only a small percentage have book trailers produced for them. How many movies have no movie trailer?

How does a potential ticket buyer or book buyer know that a movie or book is available (aside from walking into a theatre or bookstore)?

By having book trailers "out there" on the web, an author has a way to entice potential readers to want to take a look at the book's listing--to "take action" as I mentioned. This allows the potential reader to decide to buy, download a sample, spread the word about the book in an easy way using sharing icons available at most video sharing sites.

And how much does it cost to have 24/7 access to a book trailer on a video sharing site? Nothing.

A book trailer allows the author to convey the tone and genre, or even make the potential reader's problem (for a non-fiction book) "blow up" in her/his face--and then show that potential reader that his/her book IS the solution.

Let me ask you: when you use a search engine to find out about a topic, do you readily notice--and then click-on-- the hits that have a video thumbnail image? Or do you bypass those and look through the other listings?

As an example, visit Google, Yahoo or Bing and type "dumbo octopus book" and look at how many video thumbnails are present. Why? Because Google "loves" Amazon, and Google owns YouTube. So naturally, Google will show more YouTube video thumbnails and more Amazon listings near the top and on the first page.

4. Your blog mentions resources to help authors and entrepreneurs promote their work with free and low-cost methods; how does video and audio content come into play? (In other words, how do you keep your content affordable for your clients?)

By educating prospective clients, it is an easier, and less costly process to have a book trailer produced. It saves time, because one is getting exactly what they want, and it saves money because projects don't have to be re-ordered, re-created, re-done...and at an inexpensive base price for a nice looking video, why not get several made?

In order to have a book trailer created, and preferably after that author or publisher has watched samples to get a feel for what he/she would like, it's very important to decide what to do and what to hire out for, when it comes to the following:

1. Is a voice over going to be utilized? Yes? Then you need a script for the voice over part (a book description helps, and reviews and testimonials help for this, too).

2. A script of the texts that the author wants displayed in the video. Some videos show texts, word for word, while others, show bits of sentences here and there. It all depends on what the content is, and what mood one wants to convey. Think "what type and what combination of items will create the most intrigue?"

3. Images and/or illustrations (or will it be a text heavy video, with just the book cover as the only image utilized?).

4. Music--very important! A video without music is boring, and most people will not sit through and watch it.

5. How much money is budgeted for this book trailer? Decide this at the beginning so there are no surprises later.

6. A portion of the audio book can be utilized as content for the "voice over," which also saves money.

7. A portion of the book can be utilized as content for the script to save money on copywriting.

So to keep things affordable:

A. The ebook I mention below will help tremendously, and it is short and to-the-point as far as how to find the best people to hire, and which items in particular to buy.

B. Using the book listing's description, and reviewer's subject lines and reviews will help craft an awesome script. Otherwise, it would be better to have a person write a compelling script for you, especially if the book description is just a block of text. By this I am referring to bolding, bulleting, spacing--as far as the book's listing page--to create more enticing slides.

C. The use of royalty-free, and attribution-free, stock images and or stock footage, and stock music will save money no doubt. If the free items are not to one's liking, there are sites I recommend all the time that either allow you to purchase individual items, or offer packages and subscriptions. I have music, images, and footage to use in my video productions, but always refer sites to people that would rather look and choose on their own. The only cost is one's time.

5. For someone with a low budget and a product to promote, what advice would you give?

I am currently writing a book, and creating a course on this very topic. Because most of my clients come to me not knowing exactly what they want--and not knowing what it all entails--I want to help them make the best decisions for their project, with their budget in mind. I want to make it simple to understand, and productive and highly successful for us both. Rather than spend hundreds to thousands for a book trailer, they can have several created at a fraction of the cost.

Video and audio content, whether it's on a blog post, an article, in a book sample, etc is always going to be more noticeable, and more enticing, than a page full of text. More importantly, viewers will retain more of that information, because of the way it's presented.

I recommend going with a book trailer that is only going to cost $5.00. In my instance, that would mean that I'd create an up to 2 minute video using an animated template, using just your book cover image, your script of messages to display, and creating a nice-looking "book slide" with a call to action for the end of the video, and adding music to it of course. After that one trailer, I'm certain that you will want to have more created, in various styles, to promote your book even more. Once a video is uploaded to video sharing sites, it is there to stay.

The next step for an author or publisher will be to promote it heavily, either by themselves or by outsourcing some marketing. I can recommend several people whose main goal is to get as many potential readers as possible to one's book or offer.

You should also embed the video onto blog posts, articles and "sales pages."

The next step is testing various affordable promotional efforts, namely using the right offers at Fiverr. Find out which ones are bringing forth not just more sales, but also more social shares, and comments and subscribers. What I call "testing and tweaking."

Then focus on those in particular with which to place more time energy and budget into--because you now know the outcome of your efforts.

I highly recommend utilizing sites like Fiverr, which allow one to purchase high quality products and services at amazingly low prices. It is important to understand beforehand how to do so, so that a person doesn't waste time or money, ending up with an inferior product and frustration. It is for that reason that I highly recommend this book, written by publisher and author A. Parra Pinto, editor of the South American publishing company EDICIONES DE LA PARRA: The Indie Author's Guide To Fiverr Resources: How to Write, Publish and Promote Your Book for Only $5! (Kindle Self-Publishing 101), available on Amazon.

I am one of the people he selected to interview, because he was happy with my work, and because he wanted to share the top resources he found on the site, not just for authors and publishers but also for entrepreneurs.

I use his ebook before I am going to undertake my own projects, to find the best people. I also refer clients to his books as well as refer them to sellers offers based on the vital tips included. Even if someone decides not to hire me, I can at least point them in the right direction and I very often do because that is just the way that I am.

Thanks, Petra!