Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Dialect • Sibilance • Sound Treatment

Cold Reading

Term from Voice Acting industry explained for recruiters

Cold Reading is a fundamental skill in voice acting where performers read and interpret a script with little or no preparation time. It's like delivering a natural, engaging performance of text you're seeing for the first time. This skill is crucial because voice actors often need to record lines quickly in studio sessions, and there isn't always time to rehearse. Studios and casting directors value this ability because it saves time and money during recording sessions. Think of it like being able to tell a story naturally and convincingly the first time you see it.

Examples in Resumes

Demonstrated strong Cold Reading abilities during commercial voiceover sessions

Performed successful Cold Reading auditions for multiple animation projects

Led Cold Reading workshops for aspiring voice actors

Excelled at Script Reading in high-pressure studio environments

Typical job title: "Voice Actors"

Also try searching for:

Voice Over Artist Voice Talent Voice Actor Voice Over Performer Commercial Voice Artist Character Voice Actor Narrator

Where to Find Voice Actors

Voice Acting Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle directing other voice actors during ensemble cold reads?

Expected Answer: A senior voice actor should discuss their experience leading group sessions, providing constructive feedback, and maintaining a positive studio atmosphere while keeping sessions efficient.

Q: How do you adapt your cold reading technique for different genres?

Expected Answer: They should explain how they adjust their approach for commercials, animation, audiobooks, etc., and demonstrate understanding of different pacing and tone requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What strategies do you use when cold reading a complex character?

Expected Answer: Should discuss quickly analyzing character background, emotion, and context, and how they make quick decisions about voice and delivery.

Q: How do you maintain consistent energy during long cold reading sessions?

Expected Answer: Should explain their techniques for staying focused, managing voice strain, and maintaining performance quality over extended sessions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's your process when you first see a new script?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic script scanning techniques, identifying key words, and quick character/tone assessment.

Q: How do you handle mistakes during a cold read?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic recovery techniques, maintaining professionalism, and how to quickly get back on track without breaking character.