YOUR INCOME
Show You're Worth It. Here's What To Ask
Clients Before Jumping Into The Budget 

By Dervla Trainor
Voice Actor & Educator

I want to shift your perspective on something.

When people think of the "negotiating" part of any job they book, they typically think it starts sometime around when money and payment come into the conversation. But setting yourself up to command a great rate actually starts long before that - from the very first interaction.

How?

Every interaction you have with a client is a chance to show your value. The way you communicate, the questions you ask, even the tone you use - all of it quietly tells them whether you’re an amateur or a pro.

Let me explain.

BEFORE JUMPING INTO BUDGET ...

When you respond confidently - not by immediately reacting and jumping to, “What’s your budget?” but instead taking just a few seconds to think through what they're asking for, making sure you have a full picture of the project, and if not, saying something like, “Hi ____, thanks for reaching out! I’d love to learn more about your project so I can give you the most accurate quote” - you’re already positioning yourself as someone who knows their worth.

When you ask smart questions - about usage, audience, and where the project will live - you’re not just collecting info. You’re also educating the client about what goes into pricing voice over properly. And that single shift can turn a $250 job into a $750 one.

Because clients don’t pay more just because you ask for it. They pay more because you’re showing you're worth it. And that belief starts forming from the very beginning.

PROFESSIONALS EARN MORE

If you've seen and heard other voice actors who you feel are just as talented as you are, but they're making more and you're trying to figure out what the disconnect is, try this:

Start treating every client interaction as proof of your professionalism and value.

That means:

• Responding in a timely manner, but with thought and intention.
• Asking clear, confident questions. This shows you understand the business side of voice over, not just the performance side.
• Empowering your clients through the interaction. When you help them understand things like usage, licensing, or timelines, they walk away feeling more confident about how to navigate these situations next time. You’re not only making their current project smoother, you’re helping them be able to better navigate future projects.
• Making the process seamless (and enjoyable). From your first reply to your final delivery, show that working with you is easy, reliable, and pleasant. Clear communication, organized delivery, and a friendly, professional tone go a long way. Clients remember how you made the process feel, and they’ll happily come back (and pay more) for that experience.

When you show up like that, clients trust you. And trust is the foundation for better rates, repeat work, and long-term relationships.

You'd be surprised at how much more income can come from the same amount of bookings just by approaching client communication differently.

Now go out there, show your value, and do great things.
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ABOUT DERVLA
Dervla Trainor is a seasoned voice actor with over 11 years of experience, lending her voice to major brands like Pepsi, PayPal, Nike, Mercedes Benz, Facebook, Samsung, and Microsoft. In 2018, she founded V.O. North, Canada's premier annual voiceover conference, and in 2023, she launched the VO Kickstart Program to empower aspiring voiceover artists. She also initiated the Voiceover Speaker Series in 2024, a free, 4-day virtual event featuring industry experts. With a background in TV and commercial production, along with experience as a music industry agent, Dervla offers a uniquely multifaceted perspective on achieving success in voice acting. She remains committed to giving back to the voiceover community and uplifting voices in the field.

Web: www.vokickstartprogram.com
Web: www.dervlatrainor.com
Newsletter:  www.vokickstartprogram.com/mailing-list

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