Everyone tells you that you have a great voice. Here’s how you can parlay that gift into a career.

Step 1: Take a class

Take a voice-over class; there’s a lot more to the field than having a pleasant voice. A good workshop will teach you the technical aspects of the business, like studio terminology and how to use the microphone correctly.

Step 2: Practice

Practice reading out loud, and tape your practice sessions so you can see where you need improvement.

Step 3: Get gigs

Seek out gigs doing voice-over work for indie or student films, where you probably won’t get paid but will get valuable experience and material for your demo.

Step 4: Embrace your voice

Embrace your voice. If you have an accent, search for work that requires it.

Step 5: Breathe deeply

Practice proper breathing. Don’t breathe from your chest—breathe deeply from your diaphragm.

Step 6: Read

When you’re not working, read, read, read. You’ll improve your vocabulary, which will make you seem more professional—producers don’t enjoy wasting time teaching artists proper pronunciation.

Step 7: Make a demo

Make a short demo tape. Consider using software that enhances your voice by blocking out background noise.

Step 8: Post your demo

Make a profile and post your demo on online voice markets like voices.com. Also, check out schools—some will let you post your demo online for a fee.

Step 9: Find an agent

Do a mass mailing of your demo tape to agents who represent voice-over artists.

Step 10: Follow up

Follow up if you don’t receive a response in a few weeks. Persistence often pays off.