I have my script and stuff ready, should I ask for a sample?
Yes. Auditioning your Imaging voice is critical. Have a listen to your voice talent with your creative production standards, style and sound. Sure, their demo sounds great, but you won't get a true sound until you produce and direct the product yourself. Any good voice talent will audition script for free.
Also, determine the range of the voice you are hiring. Does he/she have a broad range, giving you creative writing and production flexibilty? This is often overlooked. People fall in love with a deep thundering voice, only to find that's ALL they get. One read, one style, no character voices - just one voice and the person can't take direction either.
Remember, you are paying for this voice and therefore, you are entitled to be able to use it for everything - promotional ads of various styles, narration, a funny character and other funny/creative bits and "bites". Try to get more bang for your buck. Your audition scripts should reflect the kind of range you want for your site: Warm, Hot, Gritty, Quirky, Character, Narration, etc.
