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question:  Contracts - are they necessary?

answer:

Contracts are sometimes used in the voice-over industry to guarantee the voice-over artist and the casting agent certain things.  If a contract is not used, both parties must hope that the other party honors their word.  

So should you, the voice-over artist, ask to have a contract?  Yes.  In fact, while many voice-over artists are concerned to request a contact, many clients may be relieved that you take your job seriously.

Tell your client that you're happy to collaborate with them and therefore want to sign a contract to smooth the pathway for a long-term relationship. Remind them that similar situations rely on contracts to ensure strong relationships.

A contract can guarantee payment rates to be paid within a specified time. A contract can also clarify that you will be paid additional if your voice recording is used for another application (eg: the audio from the television commercial is played on a radio commercial).

A contract can ensure your client that you won't change your prices half way into a long project. It can also help your client's business by ensuring them that you won't narrate their competition's commercials.

Approach your client and say, "I'm glad to work with you on this project, and would like to run something by you. I feel a contract can benefit both of us and would like your thoughts on this." Be prepared in the event that your client grimaces and wants no part of a contract. In that case, are you prepared to walk away? My advice is not to. Instead, I suggest you say, "You know, I like you guys, and I'm sure we can do this without a contract."

With or without a contract, it's great to have a job.

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