How to Write a Voice Over Script for a Corporate Video or Advertisement

A great voiceover can elevate a corporate video or advertisement from ordinary to memorable. But the secret to a powerful voice over doesn’t start in the recording booth—it starts on the page. Writing a strong script requires clarity, rhythm, and a keen understanding of your audience. Whether you’re producing a brand film, an explainer video, or a commercial spot, the right script sets the tone and ensures your message lands exactly as intended.

Here are some practical tips to help you craft an effective voice over script for your next project.

1. Know Your Audience and Purpose

Before typing a single word, take a step back and ask: Who am I writing for, and what do I want them to do after hearing this?

Corporate audiences often vary widely, from employees, investors, and potential customers, to the general public. Each group requires a different tone and focus. An internal training video might use straightforward language and a supportive tone, while a consumer-facing ad may be more energetic and emotionally driven.

Defining your audience early will influence not just your word choice, but also pacing, emphasis, and even the length of your script.

2. Write for the Ear, Not the Eye

What looks good on paper doesn’t always sound natural when spoken aloud. Voiceover scripts need to flow conversationally, as if the narrator is speaking directly to the listener.

Use contractions (“we’re” instead of “we are”) and shorter sentences to keep the script approachable. Avoid jargon unless you’re certain your audience understands it. Read your lines out loud as you go, and you’ll quickly catch anything that feels clunky, too long, or overly formal.

A good rule of thumb: if you wouldn’t say it in a conversation, don’t write it in your script.

3. Keep It Concise

Every second in a corporate video or commercial is valuable. A strong voiceover delivers information clearly without overloading the audience.

A common guideline is about 150 words per minute of voiceover. So, if your video is two minutes long, your script should land around 300 words. This ensures the narration has room to breathe and sync naturally with visuals.

Trim unnecessary words and focus only on the essentials. Instead of “due to the fact that,” use “because.” Instead of “in the event that,” use “if.” Concise language makes your message sharper and easier to remember.

4. Match the Script to the Visuals

Your script should feel like it belongs with the images on screen, not compete with them. If your video shows a product in action, let the visuals do some of the storytelling. Don’t describe what the viewer is already seeing—use the voiceover to add value, context, or emotion.

For example, if the screen shows an employee using new software, avoid narrating “An employee is using the software.” Instead, focus on the benefit: “With our platform, teams save hours every week and collaborate seamlessly.”

5. Use Structure to Guide the Audience

A strong script takes the listener on a journey. Even in a 30-second ad, there should be a beginning, middle, and end.

• Hook: Start with something that grabs attention, like a bold statement, question, or surprising fact.

• Body: Present the core message or story in a logical flow. For corporate videos, this might mean problem → solution → benefit. For ads, it could be need → product → impact.

• Close: End with a clear takeaway or call-to-action, whether that’s visiting a website, contacting a team, or simply remembering the brand message.

Having this structure helps the audience stay engaged and leaves them with a clear impression of your message.

6. Write with Rhythm in Mind

Voiceovers aren’t just about words—they’re about pacing. The rhythm of your script can affect how it’s received. Short, punchy sentences can build energy and excitement, while longer, flowing lines can create a more thoughtful or professional tone.

Use line breaks to indicate pauses, and consider how emphasis on certain words will shape the delivery. Even if you’re not the one recording, a well-structured script gives the voice actor clear direction on timing and emotion.

7. Don’t Forget the Call-to-Action

Every corporate video or advertisement should guide the audience toward something—whether it’s visiting a website, attending an event, or adopting a new workplace policy. Your call-to-action should be simple, memorable, and directly connected to the main message.

Avoid vague endings like “Thanks for watching.” Instead, be specific: “Learn more at [company website],” or “Contact our team today to get started.”

8. Revise and Test Aloud

Once your script is drafted, read it out loud multiple times. You’ll often catch awkward phrasing, overly complex sentences, or unclear messaging. Better yet, ask someone else to read it back to you. If they stumble, chances are a professional voice actor will too.

Finally, make sure your timing lines up with the planned video length. Reading it aloud while timing yourself with a stopwatch is a simple but effective way to confirm pacing.

Final Thoughts: The Best Voice Over Scripts

Writing a great voice over script is equal parts art and strategy. It requires understanding your audience, respecting their time, and crafting words that sound natural when spoken. By keeping your script concise, conversational, and aligned with visuals, you set up your voice actor—and your video—for success.

Remember: in corporate and commercial storytelling, clarity is king. The smoother and more engaging your script, the more likely your message will resonate and stick.

Need a script for your next project? Check out our scriptwriting services here!