The Beginner’s Guide to Voice Over Conferences

Today, we’re talking voice over conferences—what they are, why they’re a must for serious voice actors, and how to navigate your first one like a pro. If you’re a new voice actor looking to grow your skills, connect with the VO community, or even just see what all the buzz is about, stick around.

From why to attend, to a practical VO Conferences Survival guide packed with tips, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your first VO conference a smashing success.

And at the end, I’ll give you the link to my FREE Done For You VO Conference Calendar that automatically updates the events in your personal calendar.

Voice over conferences are the only places in the world where you’ll find people who get why spending an entire weekend talking acting technique or vocal warmups is fun. Whether you’re brand new in voice over or just dipping your toes into your first event, VO conferences are not only great way to learn about the industry quickly, but also a killer way to build community and supercharge your career.

So, if you’ve been wondering whether conferences are for you, or even what they involve, this guide will cover everything you need to know to make that first conference a big win.

What Is a Voice Over Conference?

In simple terms, a voice over conference is a gathering of people within the voiceover industry who come together to learn, network, and celebrate the craft. They’re packed with industry experts—casting directors, talent agents, engineers, producers, and successful voice actors-- sharing their insights on every possible aspect and genre of voice acting. Think of it as a one-stop shop for hands-on training, career advice, and access to people who could genuinely help you move forward in your VO journey.

Unlike a typical seminar or training session, voice over conferences feel like a huge family reunion. Everyone has different strengths, concentrations, they work in all different genres, different backgrounds—radio, animation, commercial, audiobook —there’s a blend of perspectives and specialties that makes every voice over conference unique.

It’s not just classroom sessions and lectures. There are workshops, panel discussions, networking functions, demo feedback, and oh my god so much more. It’s like a big VO smorgasbord where you pick and choose what you need most.

And the energy? Well, we’ll talk about that in a minute.

Why Attend a Voice Over Conference?

If you’re wondering, “Is it really worth it?” the answer is in my opinion abso-fucking-lutely, especially if you’re serious about building a lasting VO business. Here’s why:

Access to Knowledge You Can’t Google:

Sure, you can find tips online, but at a conference, you’re learning directly from people who have been in the trenches and know the ins and outs. There’s a difference between reading about a vocal technique and having a highly qualified coach teach it to you it in real time.

Networking with Purpose:

A voice over conference is the best place to connect with other voice actors, coaches, and industry pros who understand the ups and downs of the business. Building genuine connections here can lead to everything from partnerships to mentorships, and even gigs. Plus, the relationships you form here often have lasting value—they’re people who understand the challenges and the wins that come with being a voice actor.

Direct Access to Industry Influencers:

Imagine getting the chance to speak directly and read for with casting directors or agents, and learning what they’re really looking for. Conferences provide this kind of access that you just can’t get anywhere else. You get advice straight from the horse’s mouth on how to make your submissions stand out, what types of reads are in demand, and how to navigate a business that changes at light speed. And the earlier in your career you can get this education and insight, the better.

New Tools and Techniques:

Technology in the VO world is always evolving. Conferences often have sessions on the latest software, gear, and editing techniques, which can give you a leg up on your competition and make your work more efficient and polished. Plus, they often have hands-on demos where you can try out equipment or software yourself.

Career Clarity:

It’s easy to get caught up in your own bubble, wondering if you’re heading in the right direction. Conferences allow you to see the industry from a broader perspective and identify opportunities you may not have considered. It’s especially helpful if you’re still figuring out your niche or if you’re interested in exploring different genres of voice over work.

Inspiration and Motivation:

Spending a few days around passionate, like-minded people can fire you back up. There’s something about being in that environment that makes you want to go home and apply everything you learned. The energy is contagious, and you’ll leave feeling like you’re ready to tackle new challenges with a fresh mindset.

Market Yourself More Effectively:

Many VO conferences also dive into the business side of things, covering topics like marketing, self-promotion, building a brand, and creating a demo that books and gets you on talent rosters. Learning to market yourself effectively can make a significant difference, especially for newer voice actors who are just starting to build their reputation and client base.

Develop a Support Network:

Maybe the best reason to attend a voice over conference is the opportunity to build a support network. Voice acting can be a solitary job, so having people who get it can make a world of difference. Even our spouses, partners, kids don’t really get what we do and the shit we face on a day-to-day basis. At a conference, you find encouragement, advice, and empathy that only comes from other people who do this every day.

What to Expect at a Voice Over Conference

Here’s a breakdown of the kinds of programming and content you’ll typically find at a VO conference:

• Workshops:

Small, interactive sessions that dig into specific topics. You might have a workshop on character voices, demo production, or specific genres like commercial or animation. They may even have entire tracks for Spanish or audiobooks. Workshops often involve hands-on exercises where you’ll practice skills, receive immediate feedback, and gain confidence in trying new techniques. Some workshops are paid in addition to your ticket, some are free and included.

• Panels:

Group discussions featuring experts from different parts of the industry, such as casting directors, agents, producers, and experienced voice actors. They’ll offer insight into trends and what they look for in talent. Panels often include Q&A segments, where you can ask questions and get answers from people who have a deep understanding of the business.

• One-on-One Coaching:

Some conferences offer the chance to get direct feedback on your demo or performance, sometimes for an additional fee. This feedback can be incredibly valuable in understanding how you’re perceived by industry pros, and it can also highlight areas where you need improvement.

• Networking Events:

Whether it’s a mixer, lunch, a karaoke night, or even at the hotel bar, there are tons of opportunities to chat with other voice actors and industry folks. Networking doesn’t have to be a chore at a VO conference because you’re surrounded by people with similar interests and goals. I promise you this community is the most welcoming, helpful, kind and collaborative group of people I’ve ever been a part of.

• Exhibits:

Most conferences feature a vendor or sponsor exhibit space where you can check out the latest gear, demo producers, and training resources. It’s a great way to see what’s new and chat with people who know the products inside and out. You might even find conference-exclusive discounts on gear or services you’ve been eyeing.

Voice Over Conference Survival Guide

Alright, now that we’ve covered the why and what, let’s talk about how to get the most out of your first VO conference experience.

Choosing the Right Sessions for You

The schedule will likely have a long list of sessions, even if it’s an online conference, and it’s tempting to do everything. Resist that urge.

Think about where you are in your career and choose sessions that address your specific needs. Are you still figuring out your niche? Attend genre-focused sessions. Are you looking for business advice? Prioritize marketing and business panels. And don’t shy away from “beginner” sessions—they’re packed with foundational knowledge that’s crucial early in your career.

Pace Yourself

Conferences, especially the larger ones like VO Atlanta and One Voice are marathons, not sprints. It’s easy to get exhausted if you’re going full bore all day every day without a break. It’s ok, even recommended, to give yourself downtime to process, recharge, and get ready for the next round. You don’t need to attend every single session to get value.

VO Atlanta specifically is like Disney World – you can’t do it all so don’t even try. Prioritize your sessions based on your needs and where you are in your career and don’t kill yourself trying to do everything.

Dress in Layers

Conference venues are notorious for temperature swings. One room might be a sauna, the next one is a refrigerator. Plan for it. Comfortable clothes in layers are key, and a light jacket or sweater can be a lifesaver when the AC is blasting (I’m looking at you, J. Michael Cold Miser).

Also two crucial words: comfortable shoes—conference days can be long, and you’ll be on your feet more than you think.

Pack Healthy Snacks

Long days mean you may not always have time for a full meal. Bringing a few healthy snacks—like granola bars, nuts, or yogurt—can keep your energy up. Plus, it’ll save you from overpriced, not-so-healthy options at the venue.

Take Notes Wisely

Instead of trying to write down everything, focus on the key takeaways. You might want to bring a small notebook, or if you’re a laptop or iPad person, many people find it helpful to type directly into their phone or tablet or use Apple Pencil, so they have everything in one place and can access it easily later.

Some apps, like Evernote or Notion, even allow you to organize notes by session, which can be helpful when you’re reviewing later. I use Apple notes, but whatever works for you will work for you, even if it’s a pen and paper.

Networking: Have a Plan

Networking can feel overwhelming if you’re new to it, especially if you’re an introvert. Here’s a simple strategy: before the conference, make a list of people you’d love to meet. This could be speakers, other voice actors, even vendors. Having specific people in mind helps focus your networking. But don’t treat the plan like Gospel. Sometimes the best connections come from just organic conversations, so don’t be afraid to say hi to the person next to you. You’ll probably help them feel more welcome and at home.

Business Cards and Contact Sharing

Yeah, we live in a digital world, but business cards are still a nice touch for conferences. If you prefer not to carry cards, make sure your LinkedIn or digital contact sharing is set up on your phone so you can quickly connect with people you meet. Some conferences, like One Voice, even have dedicated apps that allow attendees to connect digitally, so make sure to check to see if that’s available.

I personally prefer to swap contacts digitally or connect on LinkedIn, but you do you.

Set Goals

Think about what you want to get out of the conference. Is it learning about a specific genre? Getting feedback on your demo? Meeting a particular mentor or coach? Setting one or two goals gives you direction and it helps you prioritize what to focus on while you’re there. If you’re a first-timer, a simple goal might be “connect with three other voice actors” or “attend a session on business strategy.”

Get Social on Social Media

Find out the event’s hashtag, connect with other attendees, and keep an eye out for spontaneous meetups. Social media is a powerful way to extend your networking reach after the conference is over. Take a few photos and tag speakers or other voice actors as a way to stay connected.

Embrace the Social Events

Yes, this is a professional event, but it’s also time to have fun. Conferences often host social events like karaoke nights, silent discos, game shows, and more. While they’re not directly business-related, they a ton of fun and a great way to connect and build community. Don’t be afraid to let loose and enjoy, but also don’t get messy. You don’t want to be that guy.

Prepare a Post-Conference Plan

After the conference ends, it’s tempting to just file your notes and go back to business as usual. Huge mistake. The whole point of a conference is to put what you learned into action. Block out time to review your notes, identify action items, and follow-up with new contacts.

Look back at your goals—did you achieve them? Did you find new areas to explore? What do you want to learn at the next conference?

Get Plenty of Rest

Don’t underestimate the physical and mental energy conferences require. Between sessions, networking, and social events, you’ll probably be wiped out at the end of the day. Make it a priority to get good sleep each night to recharge for the next day.

Trust me; you’ll enjoy the experience much more if you’re not running on fumes.

Is a Voice Over Conference Worth It?

Absolutely, yes. For the connections, the education, and the inspiration, attending a voice over conference can be a game-changer, especially when you’re just starting out. Conferences allow you to gain a clearer sense of where you fit into the industry, who you want to connect with, and what you want to achieve in your career.

You’ll come away with actionable insights and a much stronger sense of community and a family who share your passion and can help support you.

So, if you’re on the fence about attending your first VO conference, consider this your kick in the ass to dive in. Book the ticket, pack your bag, and get ready to change the way you see your career and what’s possible for you in VO.

By the end, you won’t just be a voice actor; you’ll be a voice actor with a plan, new friends, and a huge jolt of motivation. And in an industry where community and connection can be the difference between surviving or not, that’s not nuthin’.

I promised you the link to my Free Done For You Voice Over Conference Calendar.

https://welcome.vopro.pro/conference-calendar

Select your calendar, and accept the calendar subscription notice. When you accept, all of the events will automatically appear in your calendar application or on your phone, and they’ll automatically update as new information is added. No more digging for conferences, the links, the venues – now you’ll have it all in one place on your calendar.

Thanks for the conversations we have here on YouTube, here on the blog, in the VO Pro Community and the VO community at large. The more we talk, the more we listen, the more we exchange ideas and information, the better, stronger voiceover industry we can have.

We’ll see ya again here soon. Thanks for watching and reading.