Politics is personal. WHY do we vote the way we do, come down on one side of an issue as opposed to the other, believe in a cause or doubt, and mistrust certain politicians? And how do we receive our news and make sure the information coming in through our ears and eyes is THE TRUTH? Unfortunately, the answer to the issue of what is “real” or true is a topic for a much longer discussion. Political narration is key here. But putting aside the enormous problem of digital veracity, think for a moment about the medium.
Knowing a Political Ad
Political “ads” or media can reach us as broadcast spots on TV and radio, digital media, podcasts, and various social media platforms. Most of these mediums use voice actors to promote their message and “tell their story.” In fact, a good political narrator IS a good storyteller! The human voice can persuade, cajole, pacify, ignite, inflame, empower and so much more. Passionate, authentic voices influence your choice of candidate and how you see an issue.
The Truthful Political Voiceover Narration
When we think of the word ‘TRUTH’ what comes to mind? Things you learned from your professors perhaps, or maybe something passed on from a parent. Truth be told, there can only be one truth, and finding it can be a challenge. This is why it is so important that in political narration the employer is hiring a voice actor that really knows what they are doing.
The Political Voiceover Utilising the Conversational Read
The conversational tone is fundamentally important for a political spot because the listener needs to feel a resonance internally with what they are hearing. If the listener is feeling forced, pressured, or LIED TO then the voice actor has done something very wrong. The conversational tone is all about trust and truth. It is about a genuine connection and relationship. The conversational tone helps us unite and come together as opposed to arguing and separating.
Political Jargon and Phrasing – Political Spots
The second element of a good voice actor in the political field is the ability to discuss the topic at hand. When you are given a difficult topic to discuss/voice, it is important to sound authentic and believable. Understand and read up on the issue before you voice the spot and be certain you can articulate the essence of the topic, (think reproductive rights, gun control for example). Medical issues, drug therapies, and scientific matters may require some familiarity and comfort with pronunciation. Make sure you know how to parse long phrases and pronounce any difficult scientific or medical terms.
There is a real skill in being able to convey a message without the audience feeling like you are trying hard to ‘convert’ them. It goes back to that element of TRUTH and how the voice actor needs to connect with the listener. Poor communication, bad delivery, mispronounced words, and a read without life and passion are going to disengage your listeners rather than make them open to considering “the other point of view”.
Political Narration Summed Up
So, there you have it, an understanding of how to convey truth, why trust matters, and what it takes to work in political ads. Voice actors do more than read words, they bring life into your project. Talent, skill, and someone on your team are what make for a brilliant political ad. As you navigate the site, read more about the processes and skills required to be successful in the field of political narration. Thanks in advance for your listening time.
Political Narration by Jill J