6 Aug 2026
3 min read
The same text can sound distant or build trust. See how the right voice and direction bring a corporate video to life.
A local clothing company was working on a presentation video for their new sustainable collection. The script was strong in content: clear arguments, a concise message, and a warm brand identity. For the first version of the audio, an internal employee was chosen to read out the text.
Although the pronunciation was correct, the whole thing sounded as if someone were reading a medical leaflet. It was like a beautiful tailored suit hanging on a plastic mannequin: the form is there, but it lacks life. The sentences were rattled off without pauses for breath, and the emphasis was consistently on the wrong verbs. As a result, the viewer hastily clicked through the video, without grasping the core of the story. The text was accurate, but the feeling was completely absent.
To give the video its desired impact, the text was presented to a professional voice actor. Instead of simply recording the script, we looked at the underlying intention of each paragraph in the studio.
The approach involves a few clear steps:
During the second recording, not a single letter of the script was changed. Yet, the final result was completely different. By inserting the right pauses and subtly varying the pitch, the text gained calm and weight.
The listener no longer heard someone reading a document, but an expert sharing a clear story. Where the first version created distance, the new recording brought recognition and calm. It demonstrates that the voice is not just an accompanying sound, but the instrument that guides the content.
A common mistake when recording a voice-over is that a speaker focuses too much on the script and the microphone. A practical tip from the recording studio: give the voice actor a clear conversational partner in mind beforehand. Let the speaker imagine they are sitting at the kitchen table with a good acquaintance, explaining the story to them. This mental approach naturally alters the articulation and dynamics, without it sounding rehearsed.
When selecting a voice, it's helpful to understand how rates are structured. For non-commercial projects, such as an internal corporate video or e-learning, we work with a rate per word or per project. For commercial productions, such as TV or radio advertisements, the price consists of a fixed basic rate for the studio recording coupled with a buyout. This buyout defines usage based on the chosen media and duration. For an exact calculation, simply request a customised quote in advance.
Loading demos…
Consider the target audience and the purpose of the video. For an instructional video, a calm, clear voice works best. For brand image, a warmer timbre is more suitable. Trying out a demo helps to find the right match.
Yes, a professional voice can record to the exact pace and timing of an existing edit. This is called 'timing to picture' and ensures that speaking pauses perfectly align with the visuals.
Unsure which voice or tone best suits your next project? Feel free to contact us for personalised advice or explore more examples on our blog.
Short and to the point. Click to see the answer.
How do I order a phone message?
Pick a voice you like for your phone system. Enter your texts. You can also use our simple text generator. Add hold music if you want. Within 3 days at most, you receive the finished audio files.
How does ordering work?
What does a professional phone message cost?
The price depends on how long your text is and which message you need (welcome, menu or hold). As soon as you pick a voice, you see what it costs. Hold music is optional.
What does a professional telephone message cost?
A welcome message or phone menu from a professional voice is surprisingly affordable. The price depends on the length of your text and the type of message (welcome message, phone menu, on-hold message).
At Voices, you can see the price instantly for your chosen voice. On-hold music from our library can be added separately. Most clients receive their audio within 1 to 2 working days.
Can I provide my own music?
How much does it cost to add music on hold?
Are the tracks optimised for telephony?
Do you also record voice prompts for IVR and phone systems?
How long should my telephone message be?
“Request submitted and they review the text again, making some adjustments where necessary. If there's any detail the client finds a bit difficult in the produced audio, they resolve it very quickly and create a new audio on the same day. Highly recommended and very professional service now. Top! I was assisted and recorded by Johfrah.”
Kevin De Nil
A mix of widely read articles (28 days) and the same context, focused on depth and your next step.
Need some inspiration for your telephone switchboard? We’ve put together 31 professional sample scripts for every situation: from holiday messages to menu options.
Read more
Unsure about who voices which advert? Check out these 5 insights to choose the right voice for your campaign.
Read more
Music is the heartbeat of your queue. Choose the right atmosphere and reduce the perceived waiting time.
Read more
Your voicemail is more than just an out-of-office message. It’s an opportunity to sell. Discover how to get more out of your phone system.
Read more
Finding this useful? Add us as a preferred source in Google. You will see our tips more often in search and AI answers.
Listen to a selection of voice actors and find the right voice for your project.
“Voices.be is highly recommended for voice-overs in various languages. A professional company with pleasant communication, quick responses, and overall top-notch service. Look no further.”
Anastasia Van der Maas
“If you are looking for a reliable supplier, Voices.Be is definitely a recommendation! Our experience was top-notch - fast delivery, excellent quality, and it gives our company a professional appearance.”
Jelle Kerfs
