Common Client Red Flags Voice Over Artists Should Avoid
Not every client is a good client. While most people who hire voice over artists on platforms like VoiceBros are professional, communicative, and fair, a small percentage may be disorganized, unclear, or even exploitative. Spotting red flags early can save you time, money, and frustration—and help you grow your career with the right clients.
If you're a freelance voice artist trying to build a reliable client base, here's what to watch out for before you hit "record."
Vague or Incomplete Project Descriptions
One of the first red flags appears before you even start a conversation. A project listing that says something like:
"Need voice for video. ASAP."
...with no script, tone, length, or intended use?
That’s a problem.
Why it matters:
You can't quote properly without details
It signals disorganization
It may lead to endless revisions later
What to do: Politely ask for more information before accepting the job. If they remain vague, it’s likely they’ll be difficult to work with.
Unrealistic Deadlines
When a client says, “I need this 4-minute script in one hour,” especially if it's your first time working together, proceed with caution.
Fast turnaround is sometimes necessary, but consistently unreasonable timelines often mean:
They didn’t plan ahead
They’ll rush feedback and revisions
They may not appreciate your time or quality
What to do: Be honest about your capacity. If you can’t deliver high quality under their deadline, say no. Rushed work often leads to dissatisfaction on both sides.
Excessive Revisions Without Clear Reason
One or two rounds of revisions are standard. But when a client asks for:
Major changes that weren’t in the original brief
Multiple retakes without giving direction
Different versions “just to try something new”
…it may be a sign of unclear vision or unrealistic expectations.
What to do:
Set clear boundaries in your profile or proposal:
What counts as a revision
What’s considered a new read
How many free revisions you allow
Protect your time by being upfront and consistent.
Avoiding Usage Discussions
If a client wants to use your voice for an online ad, a national commercial, or a product launch—but doesn’t want to talk about licensing or usage rights—it’s a red flag.
Some may say:
“Don’t worry, it’s just a small project”
“We’re a startup so we don’t really do licensing”
Why this is risky:
You lose control of how your voice is used
You may be underpaid for high-visibility work
Future clients could recognize your voice in a competitor’s content
What to do: Always ask where and how your voice will be used. If they’re unwilling to discuss it, proceed with caution—or walk away.
Disrespecting Your Rates or Experience
If a client responds to your quote with:
“That’s way too expensive”
“I can get someone on another platform for half the price”
“You should do this for exposure”
…they’re not the kind of client who values what you bring.
Why this is harmful:
It sets a low precedent for your future work
These clients often expect more than they’re willing to pay for
They can affect your confidence and pricing strategy
What to do: Stay firm on your pricing. You can offer small discounts or bundles strategically—but don’t let guilt or pressure undermine your value.
Poor Communication or Ghosting
Inconsistent replies, unclear directions, or disappearing for days during a project are major red flags.
Common signs:
They don’t answer basic questions about tone or format
They ghost after asking for a custom audition
They reappear last-minute demanding urgent delivery
These clients create stress and delays—often at your expense.
What to do:
Set communication expectations early. If they don’t reply in a timely or respectful way, move on.
Asking for Free Custom Samples Without Intent
Clients sometimes ask for free custom reads instead of choosing from your demos. While this is occasionally valid, repeated requests for free samples—without offering clear project details—could indicate they’re shopping around or collecting voices without intention to hire.
What to do:
Only provide custom samples for serious leads with defined project scopes
Watermark samples or limit length if needed
Politely direct them to your demo if the request feels exploitative
Your time and talent are not free marketing tools.
Disorganized or Constantly Changing Direction
Clients who rewrite the script mid-recording, change the tone after delivery, or continually shift the project's purpose are often not ready to work with freelancers.
This lack of clarity can lead to:
Endless back-and-forth
Wasted recording time
Frustration on both ends
What to do: Confirm the script and expectations before starting. Ask for written confirmation on key points (tone, pacing, style). If changes happen, renegotiate scope and pricing.
Unclear or Delayed Payment Practices
If the client avoids discussing payment terms, asks for discounts after delivery, or makes vague promises like “We’ll pay when we get paid,” that’s a massive red flag.
What to do:
Use platforms like VoiceBros where payments are handled securely
Set payment terms before starting the job
Avoid delivering high-res files before payment is processed
Late payments are a real risk for freelancers—protect yourself.
FAQs
What’s the biggest red flag to watch out for?
Lack of clarity—whether in script, tone, budget, or timeline—is often a sign of trouble ahead.
How can I protect myself as a new artist?
Set clear expectations from the start. Be professional, ask questions, and don’t ignore your instincts. Trust is important, but boundaries matter.
Is it okay to say no to a client?
Absolutely. Saying no to the wrong clients creates space for better ones—and preserves your energy, time, and reputation.
How do I handle a difficult client mid-project?
Try to realign by confirming expectations in writing. If needed, stop work until the confusion is resolved or request additional compensation for extra work.
What if I already delivered work and the client disappears?
If you used a trusted platform like VoiceBros, report the issue. If it was outside the platform, follow up professionally and avoid releasing final files until payment is complete.
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