Looking to improve your reads and better understand what’s working in today’s market? Here’s one of my favorite voiceover practice techniques! And yes, it comes with homework.
Watch. Listen. Mimic.
Open up YouTube and search for top brand commercials – the national-level spots with big production value and great storytelling. Then…
Mimic what you hear.
This isn’t about copying. It’s about training your ear and developing a deeper understanding of how professional voice actors use their instrument.
When you mimic real commercial reads, you start to:
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Hear the nuance in pacing, tone, and inflection
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Feel the shifts in energy and emotional connection
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Understand where pauses are intentional and where flow matters most
Think of it like a musician learning a song by playing along with a recording of a master performer. The same concept applies here.
Why This Technique Works
If you’re a professional voice actor, chances are you’ve already built strong instincts. But even seasoned talent benefits from refreshing their ears and experimenting with new delivery patterns.
Mimicking helps you:
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Sharpen vocal control and timing
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Improve emotional range and expressiveness
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Break out of delivery habits that might be limiting your range
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Stay in tune with current industry trends and expectations
You’ll also start to better understand what directors are listening for when casting commercial work.
Try This Exercise:
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Pick one commercial (30-60 seconds long)
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Transcribe it or find the script online
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Listen and mimic the delivery exactly as you hear it
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Record yourself doing it
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Compare your take to the original. What sounds different? What could be closer?
Repeat with 2-3 different commercials across genres: conversational, luxury, high-energy, heartfelt, etc.
Over time, you’ll find your own voice getting more agile, responsive, and booked.
Final Thought: Train Like a Pro
Professional voice actors don’t just rely on talent. They train their ears, stretch their instincts, and practice with purpose.
So next time you’re in a creative rut or want to push your reads further, open YouTube, find a great spot, and play along.
This simple but powerful voiceover practice technique can quietly take your performance to the next level.
P.S. If you want more structured practice ideas or feedback on your commercial reads, I offer coaching for voice actors at every stage. Send me a message and let’s chat!
If you’re wanting some more commercial help, check out this blog: 3 Commercial Voice Over Skills Every Client Expects