How to Direct a Remote VO Recording Session Like a Pro
Nowadays, remote voice recording sessions are the norm in our business. While recording with all parties present in a studio has its advantages, remote recordings can be professional, efficient, and enjoyable! Like any recording project, the quality of your result depends on the experience, direction and skills of those involved.
On Air works with businesses, agencies, and creative teams every day who join sessions remotely via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or over the phone. With a bit of preparation and clear communication, you can get professional audio recordings without ever stepping into the studio.
Here’s how to direct a remote voice recording session like a pro.
You need a plan (and a script helps).
Before the session begins, know exactly what you want the final recording to sound like. Is the tone friendly and casual? Calm and reassuring? Confident and authoritative? Having a script for your audio recording will help you give this direction and lay a roadmap for the voice-over artist. When they have this information upfront, the voice talent can hit the proper delivery faster and reduce the need for retakes.
It also helps to clarify practical details ahead of time (again, on a script is best), including pronunciations, pacing preferences, and any brand-specific tone. The more clarity you bring to the session, the smoother it will go.
Keep direction simple but specific.
During the session, clear feedback is key. Vague feedback like “make it better” or “more energy” can slow things down. Instead, focus on a specific, actionable direction. For example, ask for a slightly slower pace, tell the voice talent where to breathe within the script, add a warmer smile to the voice, or give a more conversational read, as if they’re speaking with a friend.
Short, direct feedback keeps the momentum going and helps talent adjust quickly.
Use the right tools
Most remote sessions run through platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, with a live audio feed from the studio. Some clients also join via phone patch for simplicity. Whatever the setup, make sure you’re in a quiet space with a stable internet connection and no distractions.
Wearing headphones helps you hear details more clearly and prevents echo or feedback. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Practice good video call etiquette.
Even though the focus is on audio, video etiquette during the session still matters. Mute yourself when you’re not speaking, avoid background noise, and give feedback at natural breaks rather than talking over the recording.
If you’re in a shared space, blur your background so your session participants aren’t distracted by people or other activity behind you. Staying present and engaged shows respect for everyone’s time and keeps the session running efficiently.
Trust the pros at On Air
One of the biggest advantages of working with a professional studio is having expert guidance throughout the process. At On Air, we help manage the session, coach talent as needed, and ensure the technical side is flawless. That allows you to focus on creative direction instead of troubleshooting audio issues.
We’re also there to answer questions, give advice and encourage a second take if something doesn’t feel right. The aim is to capture audio that truly represents your brand and the project's goals, and we’re here to help make that happen.
If you’re planning a remote session for phone greetings, on-hold messages, commercial recordings, video production or other marketing projects, On Air Recording Studios is ready to help you sound your best.